Skip to content

Tips – Choose the Right Touring Skis

Amazing outdoor experiences await in snowy mountain peaks and fresh, untouched ski tracks. Touring skiing offers freedom, adventure, and a good workout. Here’s how to choose the right gear for your journey.

What are Touring Skis?

Touring skis, also known as backcountry skis, are designed for crossing snowy terrain. They are wider and heavier than cross-country skis, often with steel edges for better control. These skis are ideal for making your own tracks in deep snow, handling crusted snow, and carrying heavy backpacks.

Types of Backcountry Skis

  • Classic Touring Skis: Narrow, good for light mountain tours and fit in prepared tracks. Ideal for those seeking better load-bearing capacity.
  • Wide Backcountry Skis: Best for adventurous tours, summit expeditions, and hunting. Not suitable for prepared tracks but excellent in loose snow. Usually used with skins.

Choosing the Right Ski Length

  • Classic Touring Skis: About 20 cm longer than your height.
  • Wide Skis: About 10 cm longer than your height.
  • General Rule: The wider the ski, the shorter it can be. Consider your weight for optimal glide and control.

Bindings for Touring Skis

  • BC Binding: Offers better mobility and a lighter motion.
  • 75 mm Binding: Easier to turn with and provides better stability.

Touring Ski Poles

Poles should have baskets for loose snow and be about 30 cm shorter than your height. For deep snow, poles can be 35–40 cm shorter, or use telescopic poles to adjust length.

Essential Equipment

  • Map and Compass: Always carry a paper map and compass, even if you use GPS.
  • Dress Appropriately: Choose durable and protective clothing, like the Abisku range, for demanding winter conditions.

By selecting the right touring skis and gear, you can fully enjoy the freedom and adventure of ski touring. Happy skiing!