Materiel Ski de Randonnee

Ski touring is a discipline that combines the intensity of uphill effort with the pleasure of free descent off the beaten track. Practiced by athletes seeking to escape the crowds of ski resorts and explore virgin terrain, ski touring requires specific equipment, adapted to the technical and physical challenges of the sport. This guide is aimed at advanced practitioners and will cover the essential elements to consider when choosing your skis, bindings, boots and skins. Find our best ski touring equipment and other ski touring gear.

1. Touring skis

Choosing size and type: For the advanced touring skier, ski selection should be based on the type of terrain you prefer and your skiing style. Shorter skis (10 to 15 cm below your waist) are preferable for technical ascents and uneven terrain where maneuverability is paramount. For those who prefer downhill or wide-open spaces, slightly longer skis offer greater stability at high speeds and increased lift in powder.

Width and weight: A wider ski (more than 100 mm at the runner) will be advantageous in deep snow, while a narrower ski (less than 90 mm at the runner) will perform well on icy or hard terrain. The balance between width and weight is crucial, as a lightweight ski is essential for long ascents, but must remain robust enough to withstand dynamic and sometimes technical descents.

Construction and materials: most advanced touring skis use hybrid constructions combining wood, carbon and sometimes titanium to optimize lightness and rigidity. Carbon is particularly appreciated for its ability to reduce weight without compromising downhill performance.

2. Ski touring bindings

Types of bindings: Insert bindings, like the Tech system, offer an excellent compromise between weight and performance. They require compatible boots and are ideal for long, technical ascents. Frame-type bindings are heavier but offer a better feel on descents, while being compatible with most alpine boots.

Safety and functionality: it's crucial to opt for bindings with a reliable system, adjustable release and heel-lock function. Some advanced bindings also include various climbing aids such as adjustable wedges that can be easily manipulated with a pole.

3. Boots for ski mountaineering

Comfort and performance: The boot should offer a good compromise between comfort on long ascents and support on fast or technical descents. For experienced athletes, boots with good travel in walking mode should be preferred, while retaining sufficient rigidity for use on the piste.

Materials and construction : materials such as Grilamid or Pebax are commonly used thanks to their lightness combined with optimum strength; some top-of-the-range models even offer shells made entirely of carbon, guaranteeing maximum rigidity while minimizing the total weight carried by the skier.

Binding compatibility : Make sure your boots are compatible with your bindings; those with inserts will be necessary if you opt for Tech systems, while versatile models will adapt better to the various types of bindings available on today's market.

4 . Sealskins: a wise choice!

Materials and grip: modern skins are generally made of mohair to guarantee optimum glide. The mix of mohair and synthetics provides a perfect balance between grip and durability. The adhesive used must be reliable, whatever the climatic conditions encountered during a mountain expedition.

Size and fit: Skins must be correctly adjusted to the size and width of the skis to ensure maximum efficiency. A precise cut is crucial to avoid snow accumulation under the skin, which could limit the grip needed to progress to the top of the mountain!

Choosing the right equipment for an experienced ski tourer depends on a subtle balance between lightness for ascent and robustness for descent. Each component, carefully selected, guarantees an unforgettable experience in the snow-covered mountains! We hope this guide will help you make informed choices to enhance your performance and enjoyment of this exciting sport! Enjoy your adventure in the snowy mountains! Please feel free to explore our adjacent categories such as Telemark equipment, Ski Touring Binding Packs and Ski Touring Boots.