Backcountry skiing, also known as ski mountaineering, combines the sport of skiing with outdoor adventure, allowing you to explore remote, mountainous landscapes.
Unlike traditional skiing at ski resorts, backcountry skiing requires specialized equipment that is suited to the conditions and challenges of unprepared terrain. In this guide we will go over How to choose the best material to get started, according to our previous descent level and objectives.
In recent years, backcountry skiing equipment has undergone a remarkable evolution. We believe that about 8 to 10 years ago, a wave of exchange of skiing equipment and styles arose between North America and Europe, which enriched both continents.
Europe had historically focused on making narrow, stiff, race-oriented skis, while in North America skiing was perceived in a more recreational light, with a focus on developing equipment designed for deeper snow.
This contrast is due to the geographical and climatic differences between the two continents. The mountains and weather conditions in Europe are very different from those in North America, which in the past made ski mountaineering difficult to conceive in the latter, due to factors such as the lack of snow transformation, its greater depth and the rugged nature of the terrain.
Given the historical context, Europe has received skis with new features, such as greater width and the introduction of Carving (although when it first appeared, it had its detractors). At the same time, in North America they adopted the concept of "foqueo", which has made ski touring an emerging discipline there, while it is already an established sport in Europe.
Thanks to this exchange of materials, today we have a wide variety of skis. Riding styles have changed and, although it is now more difficult to find a ski that works well on all types of terrain, the ideal would be to have at least 2 or 3 different pairs.
To choose the right equipment for starting out in ski mountaineering, it is essential to be clear about what level you are starting from and what type of skiing you want to progress to. It is important to know your level of downhill skiing and the type of ski mountaineering you are interested in practicing.
Today, there are several types of skis, and I have decided to classify them into three main categories, although I know there are some intermediate variations:
- Recreational backcountry skiing : Also known as Skitouring internationally.
- Freeride in search of crystal powder : Known as Ski Freeride in other countries.
- Competitive ski mountaineering : Called Skimo, with its own federation and championships.
In this case, we are going to focus on the equipment, assuming that you already know how to ski and are looking for equipment within one of these three categories.
How do we organize ourselves to elect him?
|
Fixation |
Board |
|
|
Recreational Ski Touring |
1 |
4 |
|
Freeride/Downhill |
2 |
5 |
|
Competition |
3 |
6 |
Ski mountaineering bindings: Choosing ski touring, freeride or skimo competition
- Touring/conventional skiing : This type of skiing is the one that requires less specialized bindings. There is a wide range of options and the important thing is to find a balance between comfort and performance. You can opt for a "low tech" binding (with the spike system at the front) or for a more traditional binding. One advantage is that you can choose between these two options depending on which one best suits your budget.
- Downhill and Freeride Skiing : Here, you'll be looking for secure bindings that allow you to make more aggressive turns and prevent them from breaking free at critical moments, such as landing a jump. If you're a heavier, more aggressive rider, you'll need a binding with a DIN rating of at least 10 or even 12. Additionally, lighter bindings have also been tailored to this type of skiing, and you can invest in high-end bindings or choose more traditional bindings, such as "Marker" bindings, if you don't care as much about weight and only plan to go up just enough to enjoy a good "self-paced" descent. You can look for cheaper options here as well, but not just any binding will do.
- Skimo and competition: If you like to climb fast and, while making the descent more challenging, still allow you to squeeze out the most performance, there are incredibly light and minimalist bindings. However, the lighter they are, the more specific they become and come with certain drawbacks. Competition bindings are very basic, usually fixed for one type of boot and one size of foot, and changing boots may force you to drill new holes. They are bindings with very few comfort features, some without risers, so you will need excellent technique and good physical condition to climb at a good pace. In addition, the price is high, since the lighter and more specialized they are, the more expensive each gram you manage to shave will be. But, if you manage to manage a competition team at a good pace… you will feel unstoppable!
Boards/Skis
- Conventional Touring Binding : If you are looking for a conventional touring binding, you have many options and can choose according to your budget. The most important thing is to choose a ski that is suitable for your skill level and weight. For this type of ski, a ski with a waist between 80 and 90 mm is ideal, which is comfortable and versatile. It should have little rocker and not be too stiff, which will allow you to perform well on untreated snow, as well as offering good grip on hard snow or ice. In short, a safe and versatile ski.
- Freeride and Aggressive Downhill : If you're aiming to enjoy the deepest powder and like to jump, you'll need a ski that allows you to do so with ease. Look for a ski with a waist of 95mm or wider. The heavier you are and the deeper snow you expect to encounter, the wider the waist should be, up to 120mm. Rocker construction will help keep your tips above the powder, and reverse camber also helps with this. However, it's not recommended for hardpack or ice terrain, as you may run into issues. Remember that wider skis also increase their weight, which can make tackling uncomfortable in some conditions. But in the end, it's up to you to decide whether the downhill performance justifies the uphill discomfort.
- Race Skimo : If you're looking for an extremely light ski for racing, the waist of your ski will be between 65-70mm, sometimes a bit more if you don't need to be as specific. These skis are usually shorter to save weight, and will usually cost as much or more than a freeride ski. These are impressively light skis, so much so that they feel effortless to climb, but they are quite difficult to master on the downhill. Because they're so narrow, they lack comfort, and if the snow is deep or you're inexperienced on the downhill, you'll have a hard time handling them. However, if you're racing or competing in a sprint down the piste, you'll have no problem handling them.
Backcountry skiing is an activity that requires proper, quality equipment to ensure safety and enjoyment in the mountains. When choosing your equipment components, always consider the type of terrain, the duration of the trip, and the weather conditions. Make sure you have safety equipment, train yourself in its use, and enjoy the process of exploration and adventure.
Would you like to go ski touring in the best destinations in the world? Manaslu Adventures is an agency specializing in mountain trips that has expert guides and advice throughout the process so you can plan the experience you've always dreamed of. Discover their programs and make your next adventure come true!