Lydia Knappe

Unfortunately, too much time has passed for many people since the last major snowfall in mid-January. Since then, a very stable area of high pressure has dominated large parts of Central Europe and ensured long-lasting warm temperatures. This triggered euphoria among some climbing enthusiasts, powder fans got long faces and yet not all freeriders lost their motivation, because the best snow after powder is known to be firn. But just as with fresh snowfall, there are a few things to bear in mind when there is no snowfall.

PowderGuide meets every year at the end of the season to celebrate a successful season together, catch up with old friends and make new acquaintances. Every year it's a highlight and this year Ullr meant well with us and blessed us with fresh snow. What a weekend - something between freeriding, abseiling, cooking and laughing together and talking shop about equipment and weather. THANK YOU to everyone who was there, took part and organized, we are already looking forward to next year! Special thanks to Engelberg Tourism for the support.

The Arc'teryx Sentinal jacket and pants in the test. Not only the feel of the material is impressive, but also the durability under various conditions. Nevertheless, two small, very personal points of criticism were found.

An essential tool for off-piste skiing and ski touring is the avalanche report, also known as the avalanche bulletin. This has changed considerably over time. Not only does it appear more frequently - once or twice a day - but its spatial resolution has also become more detailed and precise. With the advance of artificial intelligence and the integration of model-based forecasts, new perspectives are opening up in avalanche warning.

The euphoria and fun that skiing triggers in many people is always associated with the dangers that this sport entails, especially in open terrain.

Fortunately, this season got off to a very snowy start and provided a good foundation. It stayed that way until shortly before Christmas. The so-called Christmas thaw materialised just in time for Christmas.