GORE-TEX 101 GORE-TEX is synonymous with reliable storm protection. Gore pioneered the waterproof, breathable membrane technology that dominates the outerwear we all use, but understanding all of the Gore options takes some research. How much do you know about all of the GORE-TEX levels? Read on to learn the details about the Gore variations and the latest on the newest… Read More
Lightweight Layering for the Uptrack and More So compact and light, there’s no reason to leave it behind; the Arc’teryx Atom SL Hoody is a superlight shell for ski touring and high-output days in the mountains. It’s also the lightest weight model in the Arc’teryx Atom jacket lineup – a collection of synthetic-insulated shells designed for moving in the mountains.At… Read More
Merino Wool — Breathable. Lightweight. Warm Wool has been part of the adventurer’s layering kit for a very long time. So long, in fact, it’s sometimes associated with an old-school vibe. It turns out that wool’s natural temperature regulation, sweat-wicking and odor-fighting qualities are difficult to match with modern synthetics. Add the naturally soft and resilient nature of merino, and… Read More
Headlamps for Backcountry Skiing Have you ever tried to finish a ski tour in the dark or found yourself chasing daylight through the woods? Darkness takes on new meaning in the forest far from trailhead or home without a headlamp to light the way. Ounce for ounce, a few pieces of gear can get you out of a jam with… Read More
Ortovox Adds Voice Direction to the Beacon Search Equation The advent of digital signal processing was a game changer for avalanche beacon technology. Directional arrows and distance readouts are standard fare. There are a few more pieces to the puzzle — like multiple antennas — but the point is that technology has made using avalanche beacons faster, easier and more… Read More
Made for Big Days Traditional backcountry ski packs get less attention in this age of avalanche airbag packs. Airbags certainly have their place, but so do regular ski packs. For example, the Gregory Targhee FT 35. It’s a ski pack that’s ready for big loads, overnight trips and technical objectives. Targhee Pack Design The Targhee FT 35 is a traditional top… Read More
A Perfect Storm – Reflecting on an Avalanche Accident Never have I fought so hard to suppress the overwhelming urge to panic. Before I realized what I was doing, I heard my own muffled screaming. I told myself to calm down. Again, I realized I was screaming. A few deep breaths later, I gained a small measure of composure. I… Read More
Artilect Boulder – Next Generation Merino Baselayers Your layering system is only as effective as its foundation. So, it pays to wear a good base layer. Breathable, sweat-wicking and quick-drying baselayers are the key to staying warm, dry and comfortable when backcountry skiing. I’ve tried countless baselayer materials over the years — synthetics, merino, blends. Synthetics breathe and wick well,… Read More
Lightweight and Powerful with an Excellent Walk Mode Alpine touring ski boots must balance weight, power and durability with walkability, flex and comfort. Generally speaking, the more downhill-focused the boot, the less walk-friendly and heavier the design. The new La Sportiva Vanguard ski boots break that trend by being lighter and more powerful than similar boots while setting a new… Read More
The Science of Snowflakes Dr Ken Libbrecht is the world’s expert on snowflakes. From stunning snowflake images to the movie Frozen – his photos and knowledge of snowflakes have appeared around the world. Learn more about the man behing the snowflake books and the science behind snowflakes in this video – The Snowflake Mystery See more ski movies
Light, Playful Powder Touring Machine – The DPS Pagoda Tour 112 RP In the words of DPS, “The best untracked snow is worth walking for.” And that’s the motivation behind the new DPS Pagoda Tour skis, including the Pagoda Tour 112 RP. Following in the playful powder tracks of their lightweight Tour 1 skis, the design wizards at DPS bring… Read More
Essential Backcountry Equipment — Climbing Skins Climbing skins don’t get nearly as much attention as skis, boots and bindings when building out a backcountry ski kit. Nonetheless, skins are essential equipment for backcountry skiing and deserve some real consideration. The big questions when looking for skins are: What’s the best plush — nylon, mohair or a blend? What’s the glue reputation?… Read More
Leather Ski Gloves Can Do It All Put your skins on. Take your skins off. Buckle your boots. Loosen your boots. Adjust your bindings. Open your pack. Eat a snack. Take a photo. A typical day in the backcountry asks a lot of our gloved hands – far more than a day at the resort. Backcountry ski gloves must be… Read More
Avalanche Safety – Have a Clear Plan and Conditions Dialogue The number one response I hear from students when asked why they are taking an avalanche class is “to be safer in the backcountry.” Avalanche instructors work hard to send folks away with many of the tools they need to be safer skiers. Some of these avalanche safety tools are… Read More
Featherweight Tech Binding DPS adds to their touring binding lineup this season with the DPS R10 tech binding. It’s a lightweight yet descent-minded AT binding that weighs in at a featherweight 260 grams (9 ounces) each. It’s a binding for all-day tours and quick skin track laps alike. The R10’s weight and appearance might lead you to assume it’s another… Read More
