Slope or backcountry adventurers, let’s talk gear!
Alpine skiing has evolved greatly since its debut in North America in the 16th century! In fact, for the past few years, touring skiing has gained in popularity in Quebec. Even though both sports involve sliding down the mountain and getting a rush of adrenaline while doing it, there are big differences on how to get up the slopes and the kind of terrain that is being explored! Backcountry adventurers and slopes skiers have very different needs when it comes to equipment.
Skis and skins
Ski resorts offer a wide range of terrain for all levels of skiers. From the groomed trails to the mogul fields and skiing in the woods, the type of skis you choose depends on the type of skier you are, your level of expertise, weight, etc. In short, a plethora of essential characteristics must be taken into consideration in order to help you have the best experience possible. Slope and all-terrain skis are good options, a 70 to 75 mm waist width will allow you to leave your mark as you carve the freshly groomed surface and a 76 to 84 mm waist is ideal for an all-terrain. Freeride skis have a 88 mm plus waist, they will be your best bet in the woods or when the storm of the century hits your neck of the woods!
Touring skis follow the same trend: there are some for every style! The difference is that the terrain you ski is generally well covered with snow. To help you find the precious white gold, a pair of skis with a 95 to 102 mm waist is the way to go to enjoy the powder, woods and steep terrain. The weight of the skis is important to consider for it has an impact on the climb. You will want a ski that is neither too light nor too heavy in order to climb efficiently without compromising your performance on the way down.
To reach the much coveted summit, skins must be used under the skis. They are made of mohair and synthetic fibers which help stick to the surface while climbing but allow you to slide when necessary.
Bindings
Alpine skis are usually equipped with a rail system on which the binding will be mounted. The alpine binding has one goal: going downhill! The touring binding, on the other hand, has a different goal: offer great mobility which enables the skier to climb efficiently to the summit without compromising the descent. Those bindings feature a pin tech system. This system is composed of two metal pins which allow the touring boots to fit properly.
In the past few years, hybrid bindings – that can be used for slope and backcountry skiing – have been available on the market. The famous Shift by Atomic is a pioneer in that field.
Boots
In the alpine ski boot department, a wide range of models, flex and width are offered. More robust, slightly heavier and with a fixed positive angle, the alpine ski boot is designed to offer the best possible experience – on the slopes!
Two options are available in the touring department. First, the 100% touring boot features a tech insertion system: two small holes at the front of the boots to clip it onto the bindings. It’s lighter, focuses more on the ascent than the descent and features a “hike mode” which gives the foot more freedom to move while hiking or ascending. The touring boot’s weight is its only downfall; it’s perfect to climb but may compromise the performance on the descent.
The second option is the alpine touring boot. It fits on an alpine and a touring ski binding. This boot also features a “hike mode”. It’s the best of both worlds!
Poles
The poles are essential when it comes to touring. They must be adjustable, light and equipped with powder baskets. They can also be used on the slopes.
Let’s talk budget! The average cost for an intermediate to advanced alpine ski equipment – boots, skis, bindings and poles – is $1,200, while a touring equipment is on average $2,000.
Whether you want to try your hand at touring or start alpine skiing, the advice of an in store expert is extremely important to help guide your decisions. A versatile equipment which allows you to ski on the resort’s slopes and in the backcountry is an interesting option, especially in Quebec! Exploring the mountains with the right equipment is your best gift you can give yourself.
