Stories & Guides

At some point, the inevitable question will come up when planning your next tour on snow or ice: microspikes or crampons for navigating high-alpine or winter terrain? While both improve traction on slippery ground, their general construction, area of application, and footwear requirements are vastly different. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences and what to keep an eye on when choosing your gear — including tips on crampon compatibility for your hiking and mountaineering boots.

Having the right gear for your ski tour is just as important as scoring perfect powder. From choosing the right touring skis to packing your backpack like a pro – every little detail counts. Because without the proper preparation, an epic challenge can quickly turn into an energy-draining experience. To make sure you can focus on what really matters, and enjoy your next adventure to the max, we’ve put together a handy list of essential equipment you don’t want to miss when you’re out and about.

Ski touring delivers some of the best mountain experiences out there – challenging climbs, epic descents, and those perfect quiet moments in untouched powder. But before you hit the great outdoors, you need to make sure your gear is up to speed. Because on top of your avalanche safety equipment and plenty of layers, your ski touring backpack is an essential part of any ski touring equipment. After all, you’ll be wearing it for hours on end – so comfort, practicality and functionality are key. Whether you're completely new to the sport or you've been earning your turns for years: In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know – sizing, features, packing strategies, and more.

From wind and snow to brilliant sunshine, ski touring is the ultimate outdoor experience. To prevent overheating and freezing, the right clothing is key. And a carefully planned outfit will go a long way in making sure you’ll be able to navigate any weather conditions in comfort. In this guide, we’ll tell you what to watch out for when choosing your ski touring gear – and how to perfectly prepare for any weather.

Like any winter sport, ski touring is bound to push your physical fitness and mental strength to the limit. So before hitting the slopes, you’ll need a little more than just skiing know-how, experience – or the right ski touring gear. To master demanding ascents in style and limit the risk of injuries, targeted strength and endurance training are key. In this guide, we’ll tell you exactly which exercises you need to focus on to be perfectly prepared for the season.

Shames is a story of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts. Facing closure in 2008, with no prospects of purchase on the horizon, the community banded together to create the first co-operative model in Canada. My Mountain Co-op, made up of local individuals, businesses, societies, and corporations worked together to purchase the mountain in 2011 and operate the hill as a community. Today, a decade later, Shames continues to remain open and serves as a model for local resorts across the globe.

The last push to the top of the ridge. A quick look over the edge. Then dropping down the sheer snow-covered face. Along with these high-octane, high-altitude moments, (in)complete gives unique insight into Jérémie's understanding of freeriding and his development towards true alpinism.

To escape from the hectic activity on the pistes, more and more winter sports enthusiasts are exploring terrain outside designated ski areas. Independent and guided ski tours are also becoming increasingly popular. As in so many situations where people venture into open terrain, certain risks arise and these must be given due consideration. We met Franz Widmer, head of the Mammut Alpine School, to discuss these risks and what steps we can take to prepare for them – to ensure that touring is as safe an experience as possible, allowing participants to fully enjoy the panoramic ascent and fast-paced powder descent.

Jérémie Heitz and Sam Anthamatten are known for pushing the envelope of what is possible. While their skiing is on another level, we wanted to learn about something we can all relate to: relationships, risk assessment and good times in the mountains.