Skitouren

Ialakha is a remarkable ski adventure film that was recently released. It tells the story of a 60 km long and 4000 metre high traverse in the Caucasus in Georgia, on skis of course and with a few spine walls in mind. We are delighted to gain even deeper insights into the project in an interview with Heli Hoffmann, the author, and Sammy Theurer, the film maker. The two were accompanied by Eva Stribrna (photos), Yessica Kurock, Levi Seiferheld and local Zura Phaliani. They were also supported by other locals from Ghebi and their horses and were occasionally followed by dogs.

As already mentioned in the short-term gear review at the end of last season, the Tigard is probably one of the ski touring boots with the best downhill performance on the market. And so it is certainly worth writing a full test report after a longer period of use!

With the Draco, Black Crows is bringing out an unusual ski. Although it is part of the "Freebird" touring series, it is still a very solid ski with a twin tip that is more suited to big mountain lines and those odd tricks.

New site, new look, new faces behind the facades. We would now like to introduce ourselves and offer you a look behind the scenes at PowderGuide. Who actually does what here?

Anyone who has ever walked up behind someone who has used Auftriib can hardly do without these "gamechangers". What am I talking about? Polypropylene plates that you strap under your ski boots (in conjunction with crampons) to move forwards or upwards in couloirs or any kind of deep snow. As the name suggests, they give you buoyancy and make your bootpack a lot easier in deep snow.

We have already reported on Snowflake in the past few weeks. Now we've had the opportunity to get to know him a little better. The interview reveals his positive attitude and love of nature, as well as his more idiosyncratic opinion on off-piste safety equipment.

We visit the Val Saisera, a jewel of the Julian Alps, and here we present the tour to the Forcella Lavinal dell'Orso: one of the three classic gullies in the valley. Last season wasn't so great in terms of snow conditions, until April brought us two good snowfalls and some beautiful tours. On the 10th of April 2022, we found 30 cm of powder, without wind and in cold temperatures, and history could repeat itself.

The harsh winter is over and unfortunately Ullr only half granted our wishes for snow. Someone didn't quite finish their soup. To make sure there's more snow next season, we've collected a few very good and quick recipe ideas for you, because a snack on the mountain is sometimes the most important thing, especially during spring ski tours. Don't forget: eat up please!

"Bike-to-ski" is somehow trendy, although not too many skiers or ski tourers actually get on their bikes to reach the lift or starting point for a ski tour. Of course, the place of residence plays a major role here. The journey to the railway station or bus stop can also be covered quickly by bike in some circumstances and helps with the environmentally friendly journey to the snow.

The Munich night club institution 'Harry Klein' and a book presentation on ski touring using public transport. Two things that don't seem to go together at first glance, but on closer inspection harmonise perfectly and complement each other. The Harry Klein was certainly packed and gave the impression that the authors had struck a chord with the times.

From the perspective of skiers in Germany or Switzerland, Styria is hidden somewhere in the east of the Alps. Away from mass tourism, small Styrian valley villages offer a paradise for ski in/ski out tours with cosy accommodation. From easy beginner tours to steep gullies, there are exciting options for everyone. A big recommendation!

Until two years ago, I always wore Gore-Tex trousers in the ski area and while ski touring. They were wide, stiff, rather heavy and waterproof. Last year, I bought a pair of ski touring trousers that are tighter, made of stretch and of course not waterproof everywhere - but they are much more comfortable and lighter.