Ski touring - Definition and Overview

Ski touring is a form of backcountry skiing (off piste skiing) involving trecking from place to place in the wilderness, that has parallels with hiking and backpacking.

While various types of ski can be used, it is most commonly carried out using Telemark or adapted Alpine equipment. In order to climb uphill, skins (synthetic or mohair rather than the traditional sealskin) and harscheisen (ski crampons - also called couteau or cortelli) are used on the bottom of the ski to provide grip.

When using Alpine skis, a special ski binding is used that allows the heel to be clipped down when skiing downhill, and allows it to be released when climbing. Special ski boots are also used, something of a cross between ski boot and a hiking boot.

A variation of the activity is also possible using a snowboard, in which case snowshoes are used to walk up.

See also

• Skiing and skiing topics