Spring has delivered the goods. With storm cycles rolling through and fresh snow settling on the peaks, it’s the perfect time to stretch your legs beyond the lifts and dip into the world of ski touring. Whether you’re a seasoned backcountry adventurer or just curious about earning your turns, having the right gear and knowledge is key to making the most of the mountains.
The Gear That Makes a Difference
We've put together a list of our favourite ski touring items;
Marker Duke PT 13 Bindings
If you want one binding to rule them all, the Duke PT 13 is it. Built for freeriders who want to tour without compromise, this binding lets you skin uphill efficiently and still charge hard on the way down. Resort laps or backcountry missions, the Duke PT 13 does both.
BCA Scepter Adjustable Alu Ski Poles
A true freeride hybrid, the BCA Scepter is the “do-it-all” pole. Lightweight, adjustable, and tough enough for anything you throw at it. Whether you’re climbing steep skin tracks, navigating ridgelines, or ripping back down, the adjustability means you can dial it in for every situation.
Dakine Poacher 30L
A solid touring pack isn’t just nice to have, it’s essential. The Dakine Poacher 30L has a dedicated avy tool pocket, space for layers and food, and a design that keeps everything organized and easy to reach. It’s built for those longer days when you need to carry a bit of everything.
Smith Venture Glasses
Touring days often start under blue skies, and nothing beats lightweight eyewear for the climb. The Smith Venture glasses protect your eyes on the skin track while keeping things breathable and fog-free. Bonus: they look just as good in the carpark or over a beer in town.
Avalanche Kit & Sunscreen
The non-negotiables. A beacon, shovel, and probe are your lifeline in the backcountry, don’t leave the trailhead without them. Pair that safety kit with high-SPF sunscreen, because long spring days mean the sun hits hard, even when it’s cold.
Getting Started with Ski Touring
Thinking of giving ski touring a go? Here are a few basics you’ll need:
- Touring skis or splitboard with compatible bindings.
- Climbing skins to get uphill grip. We reccomend the G3 skins.
- Adjustable poles (like the BCA Scepter) for efficiency on varied terrain.
- Avalanche safety kit: beacon, shovel, probe.
- Backpack to carry layers, food, water, and tools.
- Helmet and goggles for the descent, sunglasses for the climb.
- Layers that breathe well on the up but keep you warm on the down.
Hot Tips for Touring Days
- Start small. Pick shorter objectives before committing to bigger lines.
- Check the forecast and avalanche report. Conditions change fast in spring.
- Time your laps. Early starts mean safer snowpack and better turns.
- Stay fuelled. Bring more water and snacks than you think you’ll need.
- Adjust your poles. Longer for the climb, shorter for the descent.
Safety First: Navigating the Mountains
Touring opens up incredible terrain, but it also comes with responsibility. Always travel with a partner, carry avalanche safety gear, and know how to use it. Take the time to learn about snowpack, terrain traps, and route planning. And remember, no piece of gear replaces good decision-making. Events like She Ascends is a great place to meet people and enjoy a social morning skin up Treble Cone. Aspiring Guides also offers Back Country and Avalanche courses. ma
