For those who wish to venture out of bounds and explore untracked snow, backcountry skis are like gold. Quality backcountry skis are made with a foam or wood core and are often used with skins which are strapped onto the bottom of skis to enable uphill traction. Gaining access into those hard-to-reach places is no easy work, which is what makes it so worthwh… read more
Telemark skiing, also known as free heel skiing, is becoming an ever popular form for those who enjoy a more flowing movement on the slopes. Telemark bindings enable a skier to lift his heel while making a turn and are used with special telemark boots that maintain the stiffness of a regular alpine boot, except for a flexible bellows between the toes and arc… read more
Telemark skis are also called free heel skis. Unlike traditional alpine skis, Telemark skis are not attached at the heel, which explains the term "free heel." read more
Telemark skiing, also known as free heel skiing, uses skis with a binding that connects the boot in a fashion similar to cross-country skiing, connecting the boot to the ski at only the toes. Telemark skiing has its own type of turning and requires specialized equipment. read more
There are two main types of telemark bindings: three-pin bindings and cable bindings. There are also alpine touring bindings (randonnee), which have the ability to lock down as well as free the heel. However, these are not considered true telemark bindings like the three pin and cable styles. read more
Cross-country skiing is a diverse sport. While true cross-country techniques are used primarily for transportation and racing across varied terrain, the term has come to include some types of backcountry skiing, and some gear has been… read more
Telemark skiing is one of the most fluid forms of skiing and allows for easier backcountry access. If you are new to the free heel turn and interested in acquiring your own telemark gear, then there are some things you should know to l… read more
Snowblades are similar to skis, yet half the length and are typically used without poles. Made by Solomon, Snowblades are a type of skiboard, but a trademark of Solomon. Because of their size they are easy to maneuver anywhere on the m… read more
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Lift lines getting you down? Economy has you seeing fewer trips to your ski area? Don't fret or worry, with the proliferation of new alpine touring and telemark ski gear on the market, the backcountry has just opened up to newbies and… read more
Before the 1990s, selecting skis was a relatively simple process. You could choose between cross country and downhill skis. Then with the advent of parabolic or shaped skis snow sport enthusiasts suddenly had more choices. Manufacture… read more
Many telemark skiers enjoy getting out where the slopes aren't groomed. Designed for "free heel" skiing on downhill terrain as well as for working in powder, telemark skis bear a great deal of resemblance to alpine skis, although they… read more
Recent advances in alpine touring equipment have made it the preferred equipment setup for backcountry skiing. The bindings have gotten lighter, and the ability to lock the heels at the top of the skin up for downhill travel gives the… read more
You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
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