SAFE + LIGHTWEIGHT = EXPENSIVE. This sentence sums up the paradox of a low-risk ski touring day. Because what a person is supposed to carry in their backpack on a "real" ski tour – a quick evening ascent with a headlamp on the piste is subject to different criteria – is considerable.
Airbag, shovel, probe, spare shirt, warm clothing for the descent, and last but not least, energy bars and plenty of drinks. For water supply, plastic bags with tubes are often integrated into the backpack. Many find this too unhygienic, especially those who don't drink plain water but rather electrolyte drinks, fear mold growth. Therefore, adapters are now available that fit standardized PET caps and Sigg bottles.
They fit. Or you can put the plastic bags in the freezer overnight.
EASE WITH E-SKIING? In any case, everything from the skis to the backpack and its contents needs to be as lightweight as possible. After all, how does a winter sports enthusiast get up the mountain? Usually, sweating despite the cold. After years of development, an idea designed to make the ascent easier is now ready for mass production: an electric auxiliary motor for ski tourers. The basic concept is simple: the ski skins are set in motion by a motor. E-skimo has now found the technical solution with two extra wheels.
While the start-up Elec.Ski, for example, relies on a tracked solution that can be mounted anywhere. However, both have the disadvantage of having to carry additional weight – even downhill.
Investing in the appropriate safety equipment is literally vital. While crampons, for example, will only be necessary for dedicated mountaineers, other products are essential for every ski tourer.
The fundamental distinction at the outset is this: those who want to cover vertical meters as quickly as possible will focus on weight. Those whose primary goal is to enjoy powder will prioritize safety above all else, choosing wider skis and footwear suitable for downhill skiing.
