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Pro techniques to simplify your alpine touring climbs
4 minutes
Alpine touring skiing combines long cardio climbs and exhilarating descents. In short, it's a perfect combination of cross-country and alpine skiing. However, to have as much fun going up as you do going down, it's essential to know some basic techniques. To help you fall in love with this very complete sport, here are some pro techniques that will make your life easier once you're on the mountain.
Prepare for the climb
Find a relatively flat place or flatten an area in the snow to put your skis down and avoid snow accumulation in your bindings.
Put your bindings in walk mode.
If you have Tech bindings, insert your boots into the bindings and lock the latch located at the front of your bindings.
Adjust your telescopic poles so that you are comfortable for the ascent (calculate about 10 cm to 15 cm more than for the descent).
Tip: Remove your excess clothing so you don't get too hot during your effort. (In short, put your down jacket in your bag.) Start your ascent with a slow and smooth pace to avoid sweating too much and to allow you to stay dry all day.
The Ascent
To move, use your hips to propel your leg forward while keeping the skin in contact with the snow.
Slide your skis rather than lifting them.
Make sure to keep the skis flat on the snow to take advantage of all the grip of your skins.
When the climb becomes more demanding, activate a climbing aid (placed at the rear of the binding) to relieve the tension felt in the calves and maintain even pressure on the ski surface. (It is possible to use the handle of the ski poles to adjust the climbing aids without bending over.)
When the slope is very steep, make a small backward movement with your skis to check the grip of your skins on the ground. This way, you will straighten the hairs of your skins as much as possible, which will give them a better grip. You should also avoid putting your weight too far forward because your skins could come loose. Straighten your torso and move your weight towards your heels.
The turns
To make a turn in ascent mode, slightly pass the turning point to place your downhill ski on the slope. Turn the uphill ski towards the turning point and lay it flat on the snow. Then, supporting yourself on the uphill ski and your poles, lift the downhill ski. Make a slight movement of your leg backwards to tilt the ski backwards. Bring the ski parallel to the other. You are all set to continue your route in the right direction!
You’re now ready to take on every climb in ski touring. All that’s left is learning to enjoy them (almost) as much as the descents!
Gear up for ski touring
See more tips
How to choose your ski touring bindings?
Bindings are a key part of ski touring, as they’re put under significant stress during every outing. Learn how to choose them wisely to get the most out of your tours and maximize long-term durability.
How to dress for ski touring?
Ski touring is both an aerobic and alpine activity, which makes wearing the right clothing essential—gear that can adapt to changing conditions and to your level of exertion.
How to choose your touring skis?
Ski touring has been gaining popularity over the past few years—and it’s easy to see why. It’s the perfect sport for those who love mountain views, adrenaline, and the freedom to explore. Gear up with skis designed for ski touring to make the most of it.
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