Ski touring packs - skis and skin

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 the right model

Choosing size and type: For advanced ski tourers, 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 rugged 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.

Don't forget to explore our selection of ski packs with bindings, as well as our naked skis.

2. Bindings: Secure your ascents

Types of bindings: Bindings with inserts, 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 almost all alpine boots.

Safety и features: It's crucial to opt for bindings with a reliable adjustable system and a heel-lock function during ascent. Some advanced options also include aids such as adjustable wedges that can be easily manipulated with a stick.

And don't forget reputable brands such as Dynastar, Dynafit and Black Crow, which offer a wide range of products tailored to the specific needs of ski mountaineers.

3. Boots for challenging mountain terrain

Comfort and performance: The boot must offer a good compromise between comfort on the ascent and support on the descent. For advanced athletes, preference should be given to shoes offering good travel in walking mode, while guaranteeing sufficient rigidity on the descent.

Materials and construction: materials such as Grilamid or Pebax are commonly used, thanks to their lightness and resistance. Some high-end boots feature all-carbon shells, maximizing rigidity while minimizing weight.

Binding compatibility: Make sure your shoes are compatible with your bindings; models with inserts are required for Tech systems, while other versatile models can suit a variety of binding types.

4. Skins: Optimize your glide on fresh snow

Materials and grip: Modern skins are generally made of mohair, offering better glide, or a mohair/synthetic blend for a balance between grip and durability. The adhesive must be reliable in various climatic conditions and easy to handle during transitions.

Size and cut: Skins must be correctly fitted to the size and width of the skis to guarantee optimum efficiency; a precise cut is crucial to avoid snow accumulating under the skin, thus limiting grip.

The choice of equipment for the advanced touring skier should be guided by the balance between lightness for ascents and robustness for descents; each component must be carefully selected to guarantee the best mountain experience!

We hope this guide will help you make informed choices to enhance your performance and enjoyment of snowy mountain adventures! Explore our related categories such as ski touring boots.