5 minutes reading
By Sports Experts - December 15, 2023
Climbing a mountain to earn your descent, is the very essence of alpine touring. This sport, which combines downhill skiing, Nordic skiing and winter hiking, is attracting more and more enthusiasts, whether in the powdery fields of Gaspé or on the climbing trails of Quebec's finest ski resorts.
If you're looking for a new thrill this winter, here's a complete guide to everything you need to know about alpine touring equipment, practice and safety.
As we have mentioned, alpine ski touring is a hybrid of several winter sports, you can therefore take advantage of the clothing you already have to dress comfortably.
Be aware, however, that this is a highly cardiovascular sport and it is recommended to opt for a multi-layer system with a breathable base layer, warm middle layer and wind- and waterproof top layer. Plus, pick an outer shell with large zips to efficiently wick away perspiration.
Avoid cotton garments at all costs, as they retain moisture. Instead, opt for synthetic materials or merino wool, which dry more easily.
You can complete your set of ski clothes with a few essential accessories such as a helmet, a backpack, gloves, a neck warmer and high UV protection goggles.
As for ski equipment, it is specific to alpine touring. Ski touring boots may look similar to alpine ski boots, but they are very different. They are thinner, lighter and equipped with a collar that can be unlocked to give a greater range of movement, to climb a slope comfortably.
Alpine ski touring also calls for climbing skins (also known as seal skins). These are attached to the underside of your skis before you head up the mountain, to give you extra grip and prevent you from sliding down the slope. With a fastening system at the front and back of the ski and an adhesive coating, climbing skins are easy to put on and take off when making the transition between skiing up and down the mountain.
To keep your climbing skins from freezing in your backpack as you descend in powder, try slipping them into your warm coat, closer to your body, so that they stay soft and grippy for your next ascent.
There are generally four main criteria for choosing alpine touring skis:
In alpine touring, it is important to know the width and therefore the lift of the model you will be wearing.
Powder skis are known for having very wide tips that provide good lift.
They are designed for fresh powder on off-piste runs and can cope with variable downhill conditions (crusty snow, wet snow, etc.).
These skis are usually 85 to 110 mm wide.
To choose the right ski length, it is important to take into account your height and the type of outing you want to have.
On an alpine touring ski, bindings offer two modes: the downhill mode (often called alpine) which locks the boot onto the ski (as in alpine skiing), and the uphill mode (called touring) which frees the heel (as in cross-country skiing). Some bindings fit all kinds of alpine ski boots, while others require specific touring ski boots. It is essential to inquire about this before you buy.
They differ from classic alpine ski boots, they are lighter and their technology allows you to climb comfortably any mountain. In fact, alpine touring ski boots are equipped with a collar that can be unlocked to allow you a greater range of movement when walking.
There are different types of alpine ski boots, as well as a wide range of technologies offered. Some boots feature additional side support for increased performance, others present calf adjustments, etc. Do you want custom-made boots with a sole that perfectly hugs the arches of your feet? Check out our boot-fitting service to see how the process is carried out. If you need any further information, our experts will be happy to help you select the perfect boot. If you’d like to get fully geared up for alpine skiing, consult our buying guide.
If you are more of a snowboarder rather than a skier, you can also enjoy the pleasures of alpine touring.
As the name suggests, this particular snowboard can be split in two lengthways, so you can climb up a mountain just as you would on skis. Once at the top, you simply reattach the two pieces together. Splitboard bindings are versatile, allowing both heel-free ascent and descent with your feet firmly attached to the board thanks to a railing system. The climbing skins are cut to the size of the board and are similar to those used for alpine touring.
Finally, the splitboard boots can be the same as those you already use with your regular snowboard.
Gear up with telescopic poles to help you on the way up. Once at the top, shorten them and hang them securely on your backpack in preparation for the descent.
Alpine touring can be practised in a variety of locations, including ski resorts (which have dedicated ascent trails), as well as off-piste terrain such as undergrowth or in the backcountry (crown lands, private lands or wildlife reserves, for example). However, riding on SEPAQ reserves is strictly prohibited. We advise you to check the access points before your outing.
The Fédération québécoise de montagne et d'escalade 's (FQME) website has an interactive map of approved and safe alpine touring sites in Quebec.
It also offers a wealth of advice and tools for safe skiing, as well as year-round or daily insurance for members.
The Association des stations de ski du Québec's website also lists all the resorts with sectors dedicated to ski touring. It's important to note that a day pass or an alpine touring pass is required to access the designated areas.
Alpine touring can involve risks, as it is a sport that is practised independently and often outside patrolled terrain. Here are a few tips to help you ski safely.
1
Winter sports helmets are essential for downhill skiing.
2
When visiting a resort, respect opening and closing times to avoid accidents with maintenance machines.
3
Never leave without telling someone where you are going to ski, what time you are expected back and what number to call in case of an emergency.
4
Always take enough water and food with you to last at least a full day on your own.
5
In your backpack, always carry a kit containing a survival blanket, a distress whistle and other first-aid items.
6
If you go skiing in avalanche terrain, always carry an avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel.
Find out about any weather conditions and risks on the Avalanche Québec or Avalanche Canada website, or on the visited country's website.
Ideally, take an introductory avalanche safety course given by a certified training organization.
There are a thousand and one aspects to alpine touring, and it is essential to be well equipped in order to have fun on your outings. We strongly encourage you to consult our in-store assistants to find out more about choosing your equipment. Discover our winter sports guide and make the most of the cold season!
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