Ski touring is attracting more and more enthusiasts in search of freedom and wide open spaces. But to make the most of it, it's essential to choose the right equipment. Here's a complete guide to help you select the best touring skis for your needs. Discover all the best touring skis available on Alpinstore.

DEFINING YOUR SKI TOURING NEEDS

Your choice of touring skis must be in line with your style of skiing and your objectives in the mountains. Here's a detailed presentation of the main categories:

Classic ski touring

This traditional practice consists in climbing for the pleasure of the descent, seeking autonomy in the mountains. Itineraries can range from simple strolls to more technical runs. Skis adapted to this practice offer a good compromise between lightness on the ascent and performance on the descent. They are generally versatile, allowing them to evolve on different types of snow and terrain.

Nordic touring skis

Also known as cross-country ski touring, this discipline is practiced on hilly terrain, often off the beaten track. The skis used are wider than those for traditional cross-country skiing, and equipped with edges for better grip. They enable you to cover long distances on your own, ideal for those who love the great outdoors.

Freerando (Freeride ski touring)

This approach combines the effort of uphill ski touring with the pleasure of downhill freeriding. Freeriders look for virgin slopes and deep snow. The skis used are wider and stiffer, offering excellent stability and flotation in powder. However, they tend to be heavier, requiring a high level of physical fitness for ascents.

Ski-mountaineering (Competition)

Designed for competitors and performance enthusiasts, ski-mountaineering puts the emphasis on speed and efficiency, both up and down the mountain. Skis are ultra-light, often to the detriment of downhill stability. This sport demands excellent technique and rigorous physical preparation.

Steep slope skiing

This extreme discipline is for experienced skiers who ski down steep slopes, often in excess of 45°. The skis chosen are generally shorter for better manoeuvrability and have good rigidity to ensure safety and precision. A thorough knowledge of the mountains and snow conditions is essential.


By clearly identifying the type of skiing you do, you'll be able to choose the skis that are best suited to your needs, guaranteeing safety and pleasure during your outings in the mountains, from among the best brands such as Dynafit, Skitrab and Plum touring ski bindings.


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CHOOSING THE RIGHT SKI WIDTH AND LENGTH

Ski width and length have a direct impact on handling and stability:

Width at the skate :

    • Less than 85 mm: lightweight skis suitable for ascents, but less efficient for descents.
    • Between 85 and 95 mm: ideal compromise between uphill and downhill skiing.
    • Over 95 mm: better for powder, but heavier for ascents.

Ski length :

    • For all-round skiing, choose touring skis 5 to 10 cm shorter than your height.
    • For more lift in powder, choose skis closer to your height.
    • For a more uphill-oriented approach, slightly shorter skis offer greater maneuverability.

SKI WEIGHT

Weight is a key factor in ski touring. The lighter the skis, the easier they are to climb, but this can compromise stability and downhill performance. A good compromise is essential, depending on the type of skiing you do.

  • Lightweight skis (under 2.5 kg per pair): Ideal for long ascents and racing.
  • Intermediate skis (between 2.5 and 3 kg per pair): A good balance between ascent and descent.
  • Heavier skis (over 3 kg per pair): Greater stability on descents, especially freeride.

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CHOICE OF BINDINGS

Bindings must be adapted to your riding style and compatible with your boots:

  • Lightweight bindings with inserts (Low Tech): Ideal for long tours, offering a good weight/performance ratio.
  • Hybrid bindings: A compromise between weight and performance, offering greater safety and comfort on descents.
  • Plate bindings: More akin to alpine bindings, these are heavier but offer excellent downhill grip.
Find all our ski touring bindings at the best prices!


THE CHOICE OF SKINS

Skins are essential for climbing. Two types are available:

  • 100% mohair: better glide but less grip.
  • Mixed (mohair/synthetic): Good compromise between grip and glide.
  • 100% synthetic: Better grip but less glide.



A classic ski touring anecdote concerns poorly attached sealskins.

Just imagine: a beginner skier, enthusiastic about his first outing, decides to stick his skins on in a hurry without checking too much. All goes well until the climb... when his skis start to slide backwards! Every step forward turns into an uncontrolled descent, bringing him back to the starting point. After several unsuccessful attempts, he realizes that the skins are upside down... instead of sticking to the snow, they let his skis skate like on a skating rink.

Moral: always check the direction of the skins before setting off, or you risk turning a climb into an impromptu backcountry skiing session!





Choosing the right touring skis is the best way to guarantee fun on both ascents and descents. Take into account your practice, your level and your preferences to find the equipment that suits you best. Enjoy the ride!

In the same universe, don't wait any longer to read the following article: Our 5 tips for ski touring



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