Blown-In is a semi-regular look at the latest ski and outdoor industry news, featuring a collection of press releases, new products, and interesting stuff circulating on the interweb that catches our attention. This edition of Blown-In features the Castle Peak avalanche, ski pass anti-trust case, new public land status map and pending “Super El Nińo” forecast. Castle Peak Avalanche Updates… Read More
Technology has made it easier than ever to stay connected in the backcountry. Between satellite messengers, GPS devices and expanding cell coverage, it’s tempting to assume help is always within reach. But the most valuable communication happens long before an emergency. Quality two-way radios keep you connected to your backcountry partners in real time, making it easier to share snow… Read More
Minimalist Multi-Tool Most backcountry skiers (bikepackers, hikers, etc) will agree that a multi-tool is essential to any backcountry repair kit. The multi-tool category is packed with practical, if a little heavy, options for backcountry adventure use. Read our review of the best multi-tools for skiers. But the true minimalist looking to pack as light as possible should check out the… Read More
Protein vs. CaloriesWhat Matters Most on a Multi-Day Bikepacking Trip? A long day in the saddle can burn thousands of calories. Running low on fuel is a fast track to sluggish legs, poor decision-making and a miserable ride. That’s why most bikepacking food tips focus on calorie-dense staples like tortillas, peanut butter, pasta, and trail mix. But on trips lasting… Read More
Go Light and Don’t Look Back When bikepacking, storage space is precious, and every piece of gear needs to earn its place. Packing light starts with paring your gear down to the essentials. Once you’ve done that, the challenge becomes finding the lightest gear that still meets your needs. I’ve refined my shelter, cooking kit, and food system over the… Read More
This stop-motion MTB animation isn’t new, but it’s a worthy two-and-a-half minutes. So creative! Off-Piste Mag is created by skiers and riders for those dedicated to backcountry adventure on skis and bikes. We offer an authentic, user-based perspective on backcountry ski, adventure cycling gear and related mountain culture. Offpistemag.com is an AI-free zone. All content is created by real people. If… Read More
If you have tried waxing your chain, you likely know the advantages. I’m talking a smooth, clean drivetrain. If you’re ready to commit to chain waxing, the best way to make it fast and efficient is with a dedicated chain-waxing stand. A dedicated stand makes waxing a snap. Just heat the wax and submerge your chain. We are talking 10-15… Read More
Patagonia Houdini Jacket So light and packable, there’s no reason to leave it behind The best gear is the stuff that simply becomes part of your adventure kit, no debate required. The Patagonia Houdini Jacket is that kind of gear. It’s not about specialty tech or features; it’s about simplicity and its ability to disappear. Stuffed into its chest pocket,… Read More
Brandon Semenuk – Mountain Bike Video Canadian freeride MTB legend Brandon Semenuk has spent more than a decade setting a high bar for what’s possible on a mountain bike. His latest mountain bike video release trades the age-old bigger-for-the-sake-of-bigger content for something more interesting. Precision, timing and visual magic combine in a project that feels as much like a film… Read More
Blown-In is a semi-regular look at the latest ski, bike and outdoor industry news, featuring a collection of press releases, new products, and interesting stuff circulating on the interweb. This edition of Blown-In features the end of Niner bikes, El Niño predictions, Beartooth Basin summer skiing and updated recreation liability laws in Oregon. Niner Bikes “Pausing” Operations News of Niner… Read More
Size Matters Like backpacking, bikepacking rewards a minimalist approach to your gear. Packing light starts with stripping things down to the essentials and keeping the must-haves as light and packable as possible. A good place to start is with your sleeping kit, specifically your sleeping pad. A good pad can make the difference between a restless night and waking up… Read More
As the main ski season comes to a close, it’s worth giving some thought to storing your climbing skins, skis, boots and beacon for the summer. A few simple steps will make sure your backcountry ski gear is ready to roll and easy to find when the snow flies in the fall. How to Store Climbing Skins – Summer Gear… Read More
Sierra Designs Nitro Quilt: Light is Right From stormy nights in Tasmania to calm summer evenings in the high desert and snowy high-alpine camps in the Cascades, I’ve spent my fair share of nights in a sleeping bag. But never had I used a sleeping quilt until I started using the Sierra Designs Nitro Quilt 20°. Why go with a… Read More
MountainFLOW IR Waxing Tool + Guide ReviewA shop-tech take from someone who’d rather be skiing, but who still cares about fast bases. DIY Ski Waxing – Ritual or Chore Ski waxing sits in that funny space between meditation and chore. Some folks throw on music, crack a beer and happily disappear into the rhythm of drip–iron–scrape like it’s part of… Read More
Every gram counts when you spend the day earning your turns on a skin track. The Helly Hansen Odin Ultimate Jacket strikes a nice balance between lightweight minimalism, pro-level storm coverage and breathability that keeps pace with trail breaking and extended climbs. As the industry pushes to eliminate PFAS from waterproof, breathable outerwear, Helly Hansen developed LIFA INFINITY™, a professional-grade… Read More
