Tour skis
Easier and more forgiving for more confidence in all snow conditions: for everyone (and I mean everyone)
- Author: Davide Marta
- Photographer: Nicola Damonte
In terms of skis, the formula is the same as in years past. Weights continue to oscillate around 1500 grams, or just under, at waist widths ranging from 94 to 98. The main change we’re seeing is in construction.
Whereas the precursors to this segment were reinforced with lots of fiber and the core woods were denser and more responsive (e.g. beech and poplar), now the preference is for softer woods (esp. Pauwlonia) and a dash of noble fibers aimed more at flexibility and progression than pure elastic response. There hasn’t even been that much hoped for (by us, at least) rejection of rocker, especially at the tip, despite the fact that the Alps are not exactly buried in the sort of powder you can still find in the US and Japan. In short, skis are easier and more forgiving for more confidence in all snow conditions. A dream come true? Just about. Except that you risk a rude awakening if you push too hard on packed snow, in chop, or in other challenging conditions, or just increase speed and turn radius that little bit too much. But to do that, you need to be a pro.
That’s why the best skiers feel the need to turn elsewhere for their gear. In our tests, you’ll find models with a bit more heft that definitely pay you back on the descent, but that call for a bit of technique and fitness on the ascent (and gliding in the tracks will save loads of energy compared to stomping up the slope). Not to mention the extra sidecut that can cause some difficulties on the more technical traverses. So make an informed choice based on a full awareness of your own limits.
Share this article
Materials are evolving, which is increasing the opportunities for pushing the boundaries of mountaineering splitboarding. It’s no longer just about easy tours, a few jumps and a beer. Thanks to innovative new setups and growing knowledge within the community, long ascents and steep terrain no longer intimidate.
Weighing from less than 100 grams to nearly a kilo, the common denominator are the pins into which you stick your boots and that enable you to climb. From the revolution of the pin binding to the latest hybrids for freeriding, here are all the best bindings the skimo market has to offer.
Probably The most accurate ski test out there.
