Alpine Backcountry Skis

Defining Alpine Touring Skis

Backcountry skis, often called touring skis, integrate elements from alpine, cross-country, telemark, randonnée, and backcountry styles. They provide the finest aspects of these types, allowing you to need just one pair to fulfil your skiing requirements. Touring skis cater to more experienced skiers who possess substantial understanding of the unpredictable nature found in the backcountry.

Engaging in ski touring involves traversing both uphill and downhill without having to remove your skis. The skis’ broad base and loose heel facilitate exploration of deep snow in backcountry areas. Should you prefer on-piste skiing, alpine touring skis remain suitable for the groomed slopes at ski resorts.

Choosing the Right Touring Skis

In general, touring skis ought to be lightweight (approximately 1100 g to 1800 g) with the length being within 5-10 cm of your height. Heavier skis are well-suited for downhill rides, offering increased stability and speed, though they necessitate more effort when ascending. Conversely, lighter skis are preferable for those focusing on uphill touring. The waist width varies depending on touring preferences but typically falls between 82-105 mm in versatile backcountry skis.

Essential Ski Touring Gear

To engage in alpine ski touring, you’ll require specific gear to aid your journey up and down the mountains. Having the right equipment ensures maximum enjoyment of your backcountry excursions.

Bindings constitute one of the most crucial components of touring gear. Thanks to the special touring bindings, you can walk while keeping your skis on, lifting your heel as the toe remains attached to the ski. Explore our selection of alpine touring bindings in the Ski Bindings Selection.

Equally essential is selecting suitable ski boots. The ability to lift the heel to create forward walking movements means highly flexible and somewhat lightweight boots are advantageous. Our Alpine Ski Boots collection features touring boots tailored for backcountry skiing.

Additional essential touring equipment includes skins and ski poles. Skins are crucial to avoid slipping backward during uphill climbs and are attached to the skis’ base. High-quality climbing skins offer a harmonious mix of grip and glide while securing firmly to the skis. For ski poles, we suggest experimenting with adjustable poles. This allows a longer pole for climbing, a shorter one for descending, or variations for mountain traverses.

As you navigate through wild landscapes, acquiring safety equipment is necessary, such as a ski helmet and avalanche gear. Browse our Ski Protection Gear and embark into the backcountry confidently.