Steffen Kruse

In early summer 2015, the WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF hosted an international seminar on avalanche (accidents) and legal issues in Davos.

A roof over your head for two people is always a nice thing, even in outdoor times. It's even nicer when it's a reliable partner that has accompanied me in wind and weather for several years and provides reliable protection.

If your strength wanes in the last few meters or you need to concentrate fully for the descent after a strenuous ascent, this remedy can wake up tired spirits

I chose the ski at the beginning of the season, as my old all-round weapon has remained in Kyrgyzstan and will hopefully spend a long life there. I wasn't looking for real monster dumping days or gimmicks on the piste, but rather an everyday ski suitable for touring. I mounted a Dynafit Beast 14 on it (separate test). So much in advance, the ski covers my set goal relatively well. However, after a few days on the wood and in various conditions, I also noticed some weaknesses.

If you stroll through the DIY store, you can discover all kinds of items for skiers that will make your heart beat faster. Whether screwdrivers, fabric tape, epoxy, cable ties or good work gloves for everyday use at a sensational price.

Based on the Dynafit Beast 16, the 14er version has been the little brother of the big Beast 16 since this season. The binding has now had to prove what it can do on many tours and in a wide variety of conditions.

A stable avalanche shovel with a large blade is part of every freerider's basic equipment. With the Pocket Spike, Ortovox offers an extension that quickly turns the shovel handle into a lightweight ice axe. ISPO Award winner 2014 in the Basic Avalanche Gear category.

The Mizu drinking bottle is 100% BPA (bisphenol A) free, made of high-quality stainless steel and offers features such as an enlarged spout and a lid into which a carabiner can be hooked to attach the bottle to equipment.

Old love rekindled, Kyrgyzstan, a country of contrasts. While the north of the country is characterized by the urban influence of the capital Bishkek, which often manifests itself in rampant alcoholism and corruption, in the south we find what we had hoped for: Semi-nomads who are close to nature, full of joie de vivre and who welcome us with warm-hearted hospitality.

An extremely sturdy, touchscreen-free smartphone protective cover for outdoor enthusiasts - and even suitable for coarse motorists ...

The traditional brand from Sweden has been bringing light into the dark since 1933: the Silva Trail Speed Elite is a lightweight, powerful headlamp.

This week's GOTW describes more than just an object: it stands for an attitude to life, for free spirits, for visionaries, for life beyond conventions and restrictions ... it stands for the monoskier/monoskier as such...