From the Canadian manufacturer with the 3 Gs (Genuine Guide Gear) comes a colorful cut fur with 100% synthetic material. The question is whether the artificial bristles of the 140mm wide cutting skin can keep up with the natural mohair fibers used by other manufacturers.
Data
Manufacturer: G3 - Genuine Guide Gear
Model: Alpinist Climbing Skins 140mm
Material: 100% synthetic
Weight: max. 492 grams
Price (RRP): 154.90 euros
Practical test
Handling: ***
The handling is generally good, but with a few minor drawbacks. The two tabs that act as tip holders on the G3 skin really work exceptionally well and are probably the most sophisticated system on the market. The skin is well held, very easily centered and very flat. The end hook is the exact opposite. Even though it holds really well, I have not yet been able to determine whether it is better to adjust the length beforehand and force the hook over, or whether it is better to tighten the rubber tensioner afterwards. In any case, neither is ideal and the length has to be readjusted each time it is pulled on and leaves its mark on the rubber in any case. On the other hand, the construction is at least flat and offers no friction in the snow. As a bonus, there is a twin-tip-compatible end hook in the accessories, which, like the front hook, allows easy attachment to round ski ends.
In addition, the base material of the skin is very stiff, which initially requires some precision when putting it on, but benefits the function. This makes it less likely that the skin will slip or snow will penetrate between the skin and the base.
The cutting tool supplied works excellently and simply - no need to move the skin between cuts - but for my taste it cuts away a millimeter too much and ruins the adhesive a little. It is also worth letting the skin hang out well before cutting and centering it well on the ski, because thanks to the stiff base material you will regret slight cutting errors for the rest of your life. The lengths available eliminate the need to cut the skins to length. Very comfortable. Gloves are recommended for thin-skinned people when cutting. The separated synthetic fiber hairs can sting unpleasantly, but that's princess-on-a-pea whining.
A carrier net is also included in the scope of delivery and, when cut in half, is sufficient to easily separate both skins, even if they could theoretically be glued directly to each other. Taken in this way, the skins can be conveniently stored in the well-designed skin bag, which is also included.
Ascent performance
Gliding properties: *****
Climbing properties: ****
Stud inclination: *****
Water absorption: *****
Stickiness: *****
The gliding properties are simply outstanding. Easy gliding and pushing forward in all types of snow. The best. The only disadvantage: on short descents in the track, you run into the person in front. This is complemented by impeccable performance on the ascent. Good and fast grip in almost all situations. You don't notice any slippage between gliding and hooking. Only in very coarse-grained, unbound old snow do the relatively short hairs offer only moderately good grip.
The adhesive properties are good in all temperatures and also surprisingly insensitive to snow contact. Nevertheless, the skins can be separated well when they stick together.
The tendency to clog and water absorption are also inconspicuous. So far, there have been no studs in the test and no significant water absorption could be subjectively determined.
Test conditions: Powder, old snow, firn, slush - actually everything and in ice-cold to spring-like temperatures.
Conclusion
The G3 Alpinist clearly plays in the top league of hairy ascent aids. Good handling and top performance allow you to enjoy the alpine landscape instead of staring at your feet. Only a revised end hook would really be desirable.
Note: The skin is also available under the model name suffix "Elle" and entices women with a slightly different design.
Positives: Best performance, good handling (exception: end hook), excellent gliding properties
Negatives: Minimal weaknesses in the ascent, fiddly end hook (replaced since 2011 by a better, very well thought-out version - also available retrospectively)
