Skiing is the go-to winter mountain activity. Among all its disciplines, ski touring is growing in popularity. But between the classic version and the Nordic version, it is not always easy to find your bearings. Cimalp breaks down the difference between ski touring and Nordic ski touring.
Key takeaways:
- Ski touring takes place in the high mountains, while Nordic ski touring is better suited to mid-mountain terrain.
- The equipment and techniques used in the two disciplines are not the same.
- The practice of each sport depends above all on the skier's profile and preferences.
Key differences between ski touring and Nordic ski touring
The difference between ski touring and Nordic ski touring (NST) starts with the equipment. While ski touring clothing is similar, the former discipline is characterised by lightweight skis and removable skins. The bindings allow the heel to be free on the ascent and locked on the descent. The poles are telescopic and the boots are stiff for better control on the way down.
On the NST side, skis have wide bases for better stability. They are fitted with edges, fish scales or an anti-slip system. The boots are supple and the bindings keep the heel free at all times. Finally, the poles are longer to aid propulsion on the flat.
Another key difference concerns the preferred terrain. Ski touring is aimed at high-mountain enthusiasts who enjoy moving over terrain with significant elevation gain. The discipline is therefore practised on alpine slopes and steep to very steep gradients. Nordic ski touring, on the other hand, is practised more in mid-mountain terrain, on relatively flat or gently rolling ground.
Finally, the philosophy behind the two disciplines also differs. Ski tourers are generally thrill-seekers in search of a great descent line. Nordic ski tourers prefer to immerse themselves in nature and travel from place to place.
Tips for choosing the right discipline
Several factors can guide you in choosing your discipline. First, your geographical environment is key. If you live in a region with gentle relief and landscapes better suited to distance than gradient, Nordic ski touring is the better fit. If you live near high peaks, in an area with pronounced relief, ski touring is more appropriate.
Next, your choice should be guided by your technical background. If you want to get into ski touring, NST can be more accessible. You will need to master the classic stride, the snowplough technique and have a solid sense of balance before heading out. For its part, ski touring demands more technical skill. Uphill techniques including the gliding step and kick turns are essential, as is strong pacing over the long haul.
Finally, the choice between ski touring and Nordic ski touring also depends on your goals. If you want a physical workout, with sustained cardio and significant elevation gain, ski touring is the perfect fit. Nordic ski touring, on the other hand, is better suited if you prefer travelling a set itinerary, crossing wild terrain and enjoying the winter silence in peace.
What mistakes should you avoid?
The most common mistake for beginners is confusing Nordic ski touring with cross-country skiing. While the two disciplines share some similarities, Nordic ski touring is designed for rolling terrain with variable snow conditions. Cross-country skiing is built for gliding on prepared tracks, with narrow, edge-free skis that offer little tolerance for slopes or tricky snow.
Another mistake is setting off on an unsuitable route. Using NST equipment on a high-mountain itinerary with sustained gradients is dangerous. You risk losing control, becoming mentally exhausted and putting yourself in unnecessary danger.
Ultimately, safety cannot be overlooked. In both disciplines, the ski touring kit list must include a beacon, shovel and probe. Even if Nordic ski touring is less exposed to avalanches, the risk remains. You therefore need to know how to assess the snowpack, read the terrain and plan your route carefully.
Understanding the difference between ski touring and Nordic ski touring is essential before you get started. It will help you choose a discipline suited to your environment, your level and your appetite for adventure.
Photo credits: Simon Gerard
