Comment bien choisir vos peaux d’ascension?

How to choose your climbing skins?

La Cordée

September 9, 2025

6 minutes

Your touring ski equipment isn't complete without climbing skins. They will allow you to climb mountains to enjoy unique landscapes and fresh snow.

Whether you're on your first or second pair of skins, there are certain points to consider to make the best choice based on your practice and the type of skis you have.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT MATERIALS?

Nylon is used in the manufacturing of climbing skins because it is resistant to abrasion, water, and humidity. Nylon skins offer excellent grip, even in difficult conditions, but they offer less glide than mohair skins. Nylon skins are recommended for skiers looking for good retention as well as beginner skiers.

Mohair is a very light natural animal fiber that offers excellent glide. Mohair skins are flexible and compressible, which makes them easy to carry on long outings where weight is an issue. This is the best option for those seeking a fast and exceptional glide. These skins are often well appreciated by experienced skiers looking for performance. Note, however, that mohair skins absorb more moisture than nylon skins. With a durable water repellent treatment, they still hold up very well to water. They are also less adherent on hard and icy snow.

Climbing skins made from a blend of nylon and mohair offer a good compromise between glide and grip. They combine the performance and lightness of mohair with the durability and resistance of nylon.

For cold and dry snow conditions, mohair skins are ideal. For more varied conditions, nylon or mixed skins will be a better choice.

WHAT ARE THE FASTENING SYSTEMS?

There are several attachment systems for attaching skins to the tip and tail of skis. There are systems already integrated into the skis, hooks, and metal buckles. Each system is effective and simple to use. Just choose the one that best suits your skis and your needs.

The front attachment systems are light and quick to install. However, the skins can detach more easily from the skis during technical sections or tight turns. On the other hand, the front and rear attachment systems are much safer, regardless of the conditions.

WHAT SIZE SKINS SHOULD I CHOOSE?

- The width of climbing skins: the width is always indicated in millimeters. For skis with more than 110 mm at the waist, choose skins with a width between 130 mm and 140 mm. For skis with less than 110 mm at the waist, it is best to use skins between 120 mm and 125 mm.

- The length of climbing skins: the length is always measured in centimeters. It closely approximates the length of the skis. For 160 cm skis, get skins between 157 cm and 168 cm.

Some skins are already pre-cut, so you only need to install them on your skis. However, some skins will need to be cut to fit the width and length of your skis.

HOW TO CUT YOUR CLIMBING SKINS?

Several brands offer pre-cut climbing skins for specific ski sizes. It is also possible to obtain uncut skins that you will need to adjust to the size of your skis. To do so, it is important to get a trimming tool designed for climbing skins. Cut the skins 10 mm narrower than your ski so that the edges are exposed while ensuring that the skin covers the length of the skis, with the exception of the heel. At the back, the skin should be 10 cm shorter than the length of the ski.

HOW TO STORE YOUR CLIMBING SKINS?

Once your hike is over, be sure to dry your climbing skins well before storing them. Avoid spreading your skins next to a fire pit as the heat will affect the adhesive. At the end of the season, store your skins in a storage bag and keep them in a dry, cool place so they are in good condition for the following season.