Are you passionate about mountains and outdoor sports? Do you love hiking but also alpine skiing? Ski touring could be just what you're looking for. Before you dive in, you should know that this activity requires technical learning and a good command of your equipment. Here's how to get started in ski touring.
Key takeaways:
- The basic techniques of ski touring are essential for getting started on the right foot.
- It is advisable to stick to marked routes and go with a guide.
- Before heading out, checking the weather forecast and the avalanche bulletin is essential.
- Mastering your safety equipment is essential in the mountains.
Differences from alpine skiing
Alpine skiing and ski touring share some similarities, but also many differences. In alpine skiing, the bindings are rigid and the heel locked. In ski touring, it is possible to use releasable or insert bindings. These have two positions: one for the ascent with a free heel for walking, and one for the descent with a locking system to secure the heel.
Unlike alpine skiing, skins are essential for ski touring. They are cut to the exact shape of the ski and attach from the tip of the shovel down to a hook under the heel. Thanks to their directional fibres, they provide grip on the ascent by preventing the skis from sliding backwards.
Managing the ascent is a key point in ski touring. With no chairlifts or mechanical uplift, the climb represents a significant physical effort and takes up a large part of the day. To ascend in the best conditions, it's important to manage your breathing and pace, know how to tackle steep slopes and choose a safe, efficient line.
Finally, the equipment is also different. Ski touring kit prioritises lightness, breathability and freedom of movement. The equipment is designed to be as lightweight as possible and must be complemented by safety gear.
Tips for getting started in ski touring
In addition to solid physical preparation for ski touring, certain techniques are essential for getting started. First, you need to know how to ski on all types of snow. Then, you should practise fitting and removing your skins. You also need to learn to adopt a steady gliding stride to avoid wasting energy. On steep sections, you'll need to know how to use climbing wedges to reduce calf strain, and above all master kick turns to change direction.
The best place to start is on a ski resort with marked ski touring routes. These areas are maintained by the piste patrol and avalanche risk is kept to a minimum. Once you've mastered certain techniques and have been trained in mountain safety, you can move on to routes with gentle gradients off-piste. For this, you can consult topo guides, community platforms or local blogs from alpine clubs in the area.
The best way to get started in ski touring is to surround yourself with the right people. A high mountain guide, a specialist instructor, a mountain club or an experienced friend can all accompany you. They will know how to choose the right route, manage risks, read the terrain and apply the right techniques.
Mistakes to avoid in ski touring
Avoiding certain mistakes is key to getting started in ski touring. The first is choosing a route that is too difficult. If you can't handle significant elevation gain, technical sections, exposed terrain or changing conditions, you risk putting yourself in danger.
Heading out without checking the local weather forecast and in particular the Avalanche Risk Bulletin (BRA) is reckless. Extreme cold, a whiteout or high winds can completely ruin a day out.
A classic mistake is pushing the pace too hard and mismanaging your effort. Beyond early fatigue, you risk sweating excessively in your ski touring clothing and suffering from the chill on the descent. By skipping rest breaks, you also risk dehydration, energy loss and a drop in concentration.
Finally, not knowing how to use your safety equipment is equally dangerous. Having it on you is not enough — you also need to know how to use it. Otherwise, you risk misconfiguring your avalanche transceiver, conducting inaccurate searches or using poor shovelling technique.
To get started in ski touring on the right foot, a few key rules go a long way. You'll enjoy a truly immersive outdoor experience and a unique sense of freedom. Have a great outing!
Photo credits: Grégoire Fauquenoi
