{"id":21406,"date":"2026-03-10T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-03-10T07:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.snowtrex.de\/magazin\/?p=21406"},"modified":"2026-03-10T13:54:12","modified_gmt":"2026-03-10T12:54:12","slug":"ski-touring","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.snowtrex.co.uk\/magazine\/holidays-winter-sports\/ski-touring\/","title":{"rendered":"Ski touring \u2013 The ultimate guide & tips for ski touring"},"content":{"rendered":"

Ski touring appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, winter sports enthusiasts, mountaineers and nature lovers alike. This unique winter sport combines physical challenge with the tranquillity and beauty of untouched winter landscapes. From gentle hills to challenging peaks, ski touring offers the right challenge for every fitness level. As an expert in winter sports holidays, SnowTrex<\/a> provides comprehensive information in this article about the basics, the necessary equipment and helpful tips for a safe and enjoyable ski touring adventure.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\n
\n \"In<\/a>
\u00a9 romurundi\/fotolia.de<\/div>\n <\/div>\n
In ski touring, the journey is the destination.<\/div>\n <\/div > \n
\n <\/span><\/p>\n
\n Index\n <\/div>\n
\n Basics of ski touring<\/span><\/a>The right equipment for ski touring<\/span><\/a>Ski touring for beginners<\/span><\/a>Ski touring areas & popular ski tours in the Alps<\/span><\/a>Ski touring packing list<\/span><\/a>Frequently asked questions<\/span><\/a>\n <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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Basics of ski touring<\/h2>\n

What is ski touring?<\/h3>\n

In contrast to classic alpine skiing, ski tourers venture away from groomed slopes. The ascent is done under your own steam with touring skis and special climbing skins, and the descent is usually in untouched terrain. The special appeal of ski touring lies in the feeling of absolute freedom. At the same time, this nature-oriented winter sport is environmentally friendly, as no lifts are required. For many, consciously foregoing infrastructural aids presents a new challenge that is rewarded with a unique sense of achievement.<\/p>\n

Trend ski touring<\/h3>\n

Ski touring has developed into a real trend sport in recent years. Winter sports enthusiasts who are looking for peace and quiet and an experience of nature in particular will find an alternative to crowded ski slopes here. According to the German Alpine Club (DAV), there are now over 600,000 active ski tourers<\/strong> in Germany alone (as of 2024)<\/strong> \u2013 impressive proof of the growing popularity of this sport. What is particularly fascinating is climbing in the snow with the aim of experiencing an untouched deep-snow descent. The concept of sustainability also plays a role here, as many ski tourers appreciate this environmentally friendly way of travelling.<\/p>\n

Advantages and challenges<\/h3>\n

The advantages of ski touring lie in the combination of sporting activity and an intense experience of nature. The conscious decision not to use lifts makes this sport sustainable and environmentally friendly. At the same time, however, ski touring also places demands on technique, fitness and safety awareness. In particular, orientation in open terrain and dealing with changing snow conditions require experience. In addition, team spirit is strengthened as the group assesses risks and makes decisions together.<\/p>\n

Safety aspects and risk management<\/h3>\n

Safety plays a central role in ski touring. Carrying avalanche equipment (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe) is just as mandatory as knowledge of avalanche warning levels and weather conditions. Beginners in particular benefit from ski touring courses or being accompanied by experienced mountain guides. Courses on how to use the equipment and avalanche awareness are essential to ensure safety. It is also important to be able to interpret snow profiles correctly and recognise danger spots.<\/p>\n

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\n \"Safety<\/a>
\u00a9 Michael_Saint\/shutterstock.de<\/div>\n <\/div>\n
Safety is the top priority when ski touring.<\/div>\n <\/div > \n

Fitness requirements and preparation<\/h3>\n

Good physical condition and strength endurance are important prerequisites for ski touring. Regular training such as jogging, hiking or cycling, as well as ski gymnastics<\/a>, are the best way for winter sports enthusiasts to prepare for a tour. Beginners should start with short, easy tours to slowly get used to the physical demands. In addition, it is advisable to incorporate specific strengthening exercises for the legs and core into your training plan<\/a> to ease the strain during ascents and descents.<\/p>\n

The right equipment for ski touring<\/h2>\n

The right equipment is crucial for ski touring and can save lives in an emergency. An avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe are part of the basic equipment, as there is a risk of avalanches both during the ascent and descent. An avalanche airbag rucksack provides additional protection by minimising the risk of being buried. In addition, a mobile phone and a first aid kit should be carried to be prepared for emergencies. Suitable ski touring poles and a helmet are also essential to ensure safety and stability in demanding terrain.<\/p>\n

Touring skis and bindings<\/h3>\n

Touring skis are lighter than conventional downhill skis<\/a> and equipped with special bindings that make climbing easier. A maximum<\/strong> weight of 1.5 kg per ski<\/strong> is ideal to prevent your legs from tiring quickly, especially on longer tours.<\/p>\n

The shape of touring skis is also crucial: a waist width of 85-95 mm<\/strong> is considered optimal, as it allows for balanced handling in both deep snow and on hard surfaces. Wide tips provide good floatation in powder, while a narrower waist increases stability. These characteristics make them versatile and ideal for different types of terrain.<\/p>\n

The touring binding<\/a> allows for efficient ascent thanks to the free heel, as the ski does not have to be lifted with every step. Models from manufacturers such as Salomon or Marker are often designed for downhill performance with high Z-values, which can make the ascent more difficult. Ski tourers should therefore choose their bindings depending on whether they focus on easy ascent or optimal downhill performance.<\/p>\n

Ski touring equipment differs depending on whether the focus is on ascent or descent. For a comfortable ascent, skis and bindings should be as light as possible, yet robust enough for the descent. Ascent-oriented bindings, such as ultra-light models with a Pintech system, enable energy-saving ascents thanks to their free heel. These often weigh only around 350 g<\/strong>, but require special ski boots.<\/p>\n

Touring ski boots<\/h3>\n

Ski boots<\/a> play a crucial role in comfort and performance when ski touring. Touring ski boots must be lightweight to facilitate the ascent, but at the same time provide sufficient stability for the descent. A good pair of touring boots weighs around 1 to 1.5 kg per boot<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Most models feature a ski-walk mechanism<\/strong> that extends the range of motion of the boot in walk mode to 55 to 65\u00b0.<\/strong> This makes the ascent much easier.<\/p>\n

For the descent, a flex value of at least 110 to 130<\/strong> should be chosen to ensure sufficient stability. Individually adjustable inner boots increase comfort and improve the fit.<\/p>\n

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\n \"Ski<\/a>
\u00a9 Nadezda Murmakova\/shutterstock.de<\/div>\n <\/div>\n
Ski touring boots must be flexible yet robust.<\/div>\n <\/div > \n

Ski touring poles<\/h3>\n

Ski touring poles are an indispensable aid for ascents and descents. They should be slightly longer than classic alpine poles<\/a> in order to make optimum use of the thrust during the ascent. Telescopic poles made of aluminium or carbon that are adjustable in length are particularly practical, as they can be individually adjusted and folded up compactly for the descent. Ski touring poles should also be equipped with large, stable basket feet so that they do not sink into deep snow. Ergonomically shaped handles and hand straps increase comfort and provide additional support on steep passages.<\/p>\n

Avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel<\/h3>\n

An avalanche transceiver (LVS)<\/strong> emits signals that are used to locate people buried in an avalanche. Before using an avalanche transceiver, the owner should understand how it works and practise regularly so that they can act quickly and efficiently in an emergency. Modern devices have a range of 40 to 80 metres<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Avalanche probes<\/strong> are used to determine the exact location and depth of the buried person. They should be between 240 and 320 cm long<\/strong>. With a little practice, the consistency of the snow can be used to determine whether the buried person is at the probed location.<\/p>\n

Finally, the shovel<\/strong> is used for quick and precise rescue. Aluminium shovels weigh between 300 and 600 g<\/strong> and are light and robust, ideal for use in extreme conditions.<\/p>\n

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\n \"One<\/a>
\u00a9 Piotr Snigorski\/shutterstock.de<\/div>\n <\/div>\n
One of the most important pieces of equipment for ski touring is the avalanche transceiver (LVS).<\/div>\n <\/div > \n

Avalanche rucksack with airbag<\/h3>\n

An avalanche rucksack<\/strong> significantly increases your chances of survival in an avalanche<\/a>. The integrated airbag<\/strong> inflates quickly within 1 to 3 seconds<\/strong>, providing buoyancy and preventing you from being buried. It is important that the airbag is triggered manually immediately after the avalanche occurs. Modern models have additional storage space with a volume of 20 to 35 litres<\/strong> and ergonomic carrying comfort, making them an indispensable companion. In addition to the airbag, the rucksack should also have space for a first aid kit and a mobile phone.<\/p>\n

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\n \"To<\/a>
\u00a9 My Good Images\/shutterstock.de<\/div>\n <\/div>\n
To increase the chances of survival in an avalanche accident, an avalanche rucksack should be worn.<\/div>\n <\/div > \n

Ski touring helmets<\/h3>\n

Ski touring helmets protect against rockfall, falls and avalanches. Good models are lightweight, well ventilated and very sturdy. They are an essential piece of safety equipment. In addition, many helmets can be equipped with headlamps, which makes them particularly useful for early starts or late returns.<\/p>\n

\n
\n \"Head<\/a>
\u00a9 TravelTrex | Martin Miser\u00e9<\/div>\n <\/div>\n
Head protection should never be neglected when ski touring.<\/div>\n <\/div > \n

Clothing<\/h3>\n

The right clothing consists of several layers (onion principle):<\/p>\n