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FREE
Ski
Ski Review
Review 03-04
03-04
The
The Fall
Fall Line
Line
Blisters
Blisters
100
100 Days
Days
Avy
Avy 101
101
Issue XVIII
Oct. 2003
2 Off-Piste October 2003
C
Off-P
Off-Piste
iste
Publisher/Editor
David Waag
Contributing Editor
Ray Thomas, Karen Holt
Contributing Writers
Myles Berney, Gene Dwarkin
Glenn Kessler, Nils Larsen,
Paul Nicolazzo, Leslie Ross,
Ray Thomas, David Waag
Contributing Photographers/Artists
Myles Berney, Chad Coleman,
Karen Holt, Chase Jarvis, Ego,
Carl Skoog, David Waag
Web Slave
Karen Holt
Printing & Distribution
Oregon Litho, McMinnville, OR
Off-Piste - PO Box 1626
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F E A T U R E S
Volume VI - Issue XVIII
O N T E N T S
A DAY IN THE LIFE 6
AN INTERVIEW WITH KASHA RIGBY - LESLIE ROSS
THE FALL LINE 8
LEARNING TO GO WITH THE FLOW - NILS LARSEN
2003-04 SKI REVIEW 10
THE LATEST STICKS AND OUR OPINIONS - EDITORS
TUA - THE END OF AN ERA 17
A RETROSPECTIVE LOOK AT TUA SKIS - RAY THOMAS
100 DAYS 18
THE CELEBRATION OF A SEASON - MYLES BERNEY
D E PA R T M E N T S
Contribute: We are the voice of the
backcountry community. Be creative! Send
artwork, photos, news, stories, and events.
Detailed submission information is available
on our web site or give us a call.
LETTERS 4
Advertise: Our readers want to know about
your business! Call or write for our media kit.
WHAT’S UP 5
Subscriptions: Support the cause!
SUBSCRIBE! 4 issues = $15 includes postage
& labor Back issues are available for $5 each.
Independent Media for Independent Minds!
Warning: You guessed it, do not try this at home. The mountains
can be a dangerous place and, fortunately, backcountry skiing is
not for everyone. Common sense goes a long way in the backcountry
and you best not leave home without it. No part of Off-Piste
can replace experience and sound judgement. Be smart, play
safe and be kind to your neighbor. Brush and floss regularly.
The opinions in Off-Piste do not necessarily represent those of
the publisher or editorial staff. Closed minds are dangerous. No
part of Off-Piste may be reproduced in any form without prior
written consent from Free Heel Press.
READER INPUT
NEWS, EVENTS, ISSUES
GALLERY 12
WORDS & IMAGES
THE TROGLODYTE 14
HUMOR
BACKCOUNTRY MEDIC 15
BLISTERS REVISITED BY PAUL NICOLAZZO
AVY 101 16
AN AVALANCHE SAFETY CHECKLIST BY GLENN KESSLER
Cover
Skier: BJ Brewer
Location: The Wasatch
Photographer: Carl Skoog
SHOP DIRECTORY 23
CALENDAR - CHECK WWW.OFFPISTEMAG.COM FOR THE LATEST EVENT LISTING
Issue XVIII Off-Piste 3
FIRST
T
TR
RAC
ACK
KS
S
I
t has been a hot and dry summer in much of the west. We received our
first good dose of Fall weather today and, although it is never easy to let
go of the shorts and sandals for the season, the cool damp weather feels
great. The cool air helps fill my head with memories of past winters. The
magical moments etched into memory and triggered by the change in
weather patterns make my head spin with anticipation of the winter to
come.
As usual, the weather forecasters and climatologists are engaged in their
annual sport of forecasting the winter snows. Typically, I tune into the
various theories with acute interest but this season my mind is elsewhere.
Maybe I finally realized that there is nothing I can do about the weather
but wake up each day and experience it. Or maybe it is because I know
there will be more great days to come regardless of any forecasts. Time in
the mountains with friends is all about getting out and making it happen.
Granted, stellar conditions promote a higher percentage of days out, but
good weather means something different for everyone. Personally, storm
cycle tree skiing is what keeps me awake at night. There is no equal to
following gravity’s force through the trees shielded by your goggles and a
haze of snowflakes. The rhythm comes naturally as you relax and let the
fall line draw you through the trees and down the slope. Some days
though are more about the solitude, the meditative mind that only a good
skin track will foster. Regardless, it is always good to get out. And really,
that is what this sport is all about isn’t it. Spending time in the mountains
playing with gravity’s pull.
Well, our aim is to help motivate and inspire you to get out. Six years ago,
when I started Off-Piste, I had no idea where the idea may lead. The mag
has evolved and grown over the years and this season, our mission
(besides motivating you to enjoy the mountains) is to get everyone who
picks up the mag in their local shop to SUBSCRIBE. We are bursting at
the seams to grow. We have more content and ideas than ever but we
need your support to help make the growth possible. Sure, it’s a ‘free
mag’ and up to this point our advertisers have been supporting the
production of Off-Piste and keepin’ it free. Now it is your turn to help.
Without shame, I ask you to subscribe in order to help Off-Piste grow. We
are at a critical point in our evolution and in order to maintain a low
advertising to editorial content ratio, we need your help. Drop a check in
the mail or subscribe through our website. We need your support.
Cheers,
Dave
LETTERS
EXPRESS YOURSELF
GSE Effectiveness?
In regard to your interesting “Backcountry Medic”
article “H2O - Keeping It Pure” [in The Mag Vol.
4] and specifically the section on Grapefruit Seed
Extract, German scientists T. von Woedtke, B.
Schluter, P. Pflegel, U. Lindequist, and W.D.
Julich [Parmazie, 1999 Jun;54(6):452-6] found “...
the potent as well as nearly universal
antimicrobial activity being attributed to
grapefruit seed extract is merely due to the
synthetic preservative agents contained within.
Natural products with antimicrobial activity do
not appear to be present.”
This is, of course, very disappointing, but many
other scientists got fooled by grapefruit seed
extract. Someone needs to study the safety,
benefits, and risks of those synthetic products in
regard to water purification.
Thanks.
Jim Adams
Jim,
Our medical expert, Paul Nicolazzo looked into
this question. Although there is no definitive
answer to the situation here is some more info.
The primary preservative agent in most GSE is
benzethonium chloride @ 8.03%. Benzethonium
chloride seems to enjoy widespread use in
cosmetics, mouth washes and dental hygiene, eye
washes, and some drug preparations. While it has
been separately identified as an antimicrobial
agent, we found no research devoted to its actions
specifically. Interestingly, Nutribiotic, the
manufacturer of commonly available GSE formulas,
claims that no preservatives are added. Clearly,
there is some discrepency here.
Bottom line is that all the research supports the
clinical results so although we do not know if the
anti-microbial action is due to a preservative or
naturally occurring...as long as it works...but we
are very curious. We’ll keep watching the research.
-Ed.
area will directly impact the Crystal Springs Watershed,
the water source for some 2,500 residents of the upper
Hood River Valley.
Commercial
Advertising
on
Chairlifts?
Following a one-year pilot program in Aspen, Colorado that allowed
advertising to be placed on chairlift safety bars, the Forest Service
issued a temporary ruling to ban the ads nationwide.
The ads, displayed in conjunction with trail maps attached to chairlift
safety bars, were included as part of a test program at Aspen Skiing
Co.’s four resorts last season. Although, outdoor advertising is in
direct conflict with the USFS policy, the chairlift ads were allowed as a
test program after high level lobbying by an Aspen businessman
associated with the project.
The temporary ruling to ban such ads is only in effect for one year
while Forest Service officials discuss whether changes should be
made relating to advertising on public lands. According to a Denver
Post article, Forest Service officials stated that because there is a
significant amount of money at stake, the issue could trigger a rulemaking process that would include public input.
The Forest Service plans to survey resort skiers this winter regarding
the idea of advertising. Allowing a permanent change to the USFS
policy regarding commercial advertising on public lands could trigger
a larger undesirable change. Let your opinion be heard, write
regional and national Forest Service officials today. www.fs.fed.us
USDA Forest Service P.O. Box 96090, Washington, D.C. 20090-6090,
(202) 205-8333
Mt Hood Cooper Spur Development Update
Facing ongoing opposition from a variety of local organizations and
citizen groups, Mt Hood Meadows says it is reconsidering its plans to
develop a destination resort on 620 acres of land acquired from Hood
River County that is adjacent to the Cooper Spur Ski Area. Meadows
has faced strong opposition from a variety of groups working
together under the Cooper Spur Wild and Free Coalition. The
Coalition has pressured Meadows since the original land swap with
Hood River County and points out that development on the 620 acre
Thus, the latest version of the development calls for
developing the proposed resort and associated amenities on
160 acres purchased from a private owner (separate from the
620 acres in the initial plan). According to Meadows they are
considering three options for the original 620 acres: selling it back to
the county, trading it for 350 acres of nearby U.S. Forest Service land
or making it a conservation area.
According to a June 19th article in the Oregonian, County
Commissioner Rodger Schock said he would be reluctant to buy
back the land and Doug Jones, a lands and permits specialist with
the Forest Service, said the Forest Service probably wouldn’t approve
a land trade because of the public outcry against the resort. This
would leave only the conservation option. However, Meadows project
manager, Dave Riley, is optimistic that all three options are viable.
The latest plan sounds good, however, people working closely with
the citizen groups that oppose the development of Cooper Spur
believe that Meadows is making calculated changes to further their
long-term development plans. The idea being to downscale the plan
in order to lower the profile of the development and thus quiet the
opposition, then trade the 620 acres with the forest service for land
adjacent to the area and continue with larger scale plans.
According to the Cooper Spur Wild and Free Coalition, all of the land
in question is still centrally located near the Crystal Springs
watershed. For more information and to learn how to participate in
the process visit www.cooperspur.org.
Backcountry Snowsports Alliance
by Kim Hedberg, Executive Director
(Colorado)
The Backcountry Snowsports Alliance (formerly Backcountry
Skiers Alliance) has been working to preserve, manage, and
create non-motorized areas on public lands in Colorado since
1992. Our scope of work has included Vail Pass, Rabbit Ears
Pass, Buffalo Pass, Hahn’s Peak (all three near Steamboat
Springs), and Wolf Creek Pass. A new added focus is to work with
continued on page 22
Off-Piste with Kasha Rigby
An Interview
by Leslie Ross
spend most of my year sleeping on the snow.
LR:
Time free heel vs. fixed heel?
KR:
For years, I was exclusively telemark, the
only variation being occasional snowboard. A few
years ago, I started mixing alpine set up into the
menu. It honestly helped my telemark skiing,
allowing me get out of my head, get over my skis
and deal with some fears. Three years ago, I did
my first big expedition with randonee gear and
have brought it on several trips since.
LR:
Why the switch?
KR:
I definitely heard flack from some
traditional free heelers that I was “selling out”. But
some tools are better for different jobs. As part of
an expedition ‘team’, I want to be the strongest
member possible. At present, I am a stronger
member on rondo, not necessarily a better skier.
With a big pack, steep, exposed, often icy terrain, I
am more secure locked in. Telemark boots can be
a little less dependable, at times awkward,
negotiating significant technical ice and mixed
climbing. But, in the Wasatch, riding the tram or
on a fun tour, I almost always telemark. On a
powder day – telemark for sure!
LR:
Some of your past adventures?
KR:
With my skis all over the US, Alaska,
Canada, Europe New Zealand, Russia, India,
Lebanon, China, Tibet, Mongolia and South
America (Ecuador, Argentina, Chile). Without skis
the list grows…
LR:
Most recent trip?
KR:
Last spring I traveled to Southeast
Greenland with Jim Zellers and John Griber (on
snowboards). We took kites and used them to
travel across the glaciers to the mountains to ski.
There was so much beautiful terrain the hardest
part was deciding where to go everyday.
LR:
S
he’s the girl in The North Face ads. You
read about her in ski mags, You see
her in front and behind the camera. How
does she get to go to all those cool places?
And where is she off to next?
This September, I caught up with Kasha Rigby in
Yosemite, while on a weekend retreat from her
three month intensive Yoga Instructor Training.
‘Mountain Adventure Gal’, 33 year old Rigby is
living a ski mountaineer’s dream, traveling to exotic
locations to ski for “work”, although not without a
little sacrifice.
Introduced to the ski industry via immediate
success in the 1990’s Crested Butte Extreme
Skiing Competitions, Kasha took her opening and
ran. Now a member of The North Face Team,
Kasha has traveled and skied more places than
many of us could do in a life time. Her travels are
not without heart. Kasha not only has a passion for
living life to the fullest, but a passion to share that
with and inspire others to do the same. A nonprofit slave prior to her Crested Butte days, Kasha
is now trying to direct her travels in a similar
fashion. (I am waiting for a bit more info from her on
this.)
LR:
What is your occupation?
KR:
Hmmm….mountain guide, professional
athlete (ha), technical development for The North
Face. Right now I am aspiring to find a decent
waitressing position for the next couple months so I
can go on the next adventure. I used to be a
gardener, writer…
LR:
From Where did your passion for exploring
on snow stem?
KR:
I was raised skiing in Vermont. My mother
would send us to the bus stop with skis and a
peanut butter sandwich in our pockets and tell us
to be home by dark. As a teenager we would hike
up the ski area after dark and sleep in an old
cabin. At dawn, before the area opened for the
day we would ski and snowboard down. At 16, pre
snowboarding at ski areas, I tried telemark skiing
just to mix it up a bit. Although I Nordic raced a
tad, I never a competed in telemark until I moved
west. In Vermont at that
time, there really weren’t
any mentors or classes.
People still thought that
the binding was broken.
Do you have a home base right now?
KR:
Not really. This fall, I am spending two
months in Los Angeles, but by the time this comes
out I will be in winter somewhere. I have a storage
unit in Crested Butte, CO still and some boxes of
gear in Salt Lake City, UT.
LR:
What do you see as your biggest
accomplishment?
KR:
Our girls’ expeditions are really a joy for
me. Getting to go into the mountains with people
LR: First backcountry
experience?
KR: My first real
backcountry experience
was in Colorado.
I
didn’t want to admit to
the boy I was with that I
had never used skins
and I had no idea how
to use a beacon. Eight
years ago, I went to
South America for eight
months and at that time
had yet to spend a
night on the snow. At
night, my boyfriend
made me hot water
bottles to sleep with,
determined to make me
like winter camping,
creating the monster I
am today. I suppose I
really took to it, as now I
Photos: David Waag
you trust and love is powerful. Traveling to exotic places and pulling off first
descents is icing on the cake. Being able to combine my passions of travel,
mountains, skiing and friends is such a gift. If I could do all this and make it
sustainable…that would be a giant accomplishment.
LR:
Your mentors?
KR:
Hilaree Nelson, Ace Kvale, Sarah Ferguson, Victoria Jamieson.
LR:
do?
Has the growth of backcountry and freeheel skiing impacted what you
KR:
Honestly, not a lot. I still just do what I do. But now have more friends
to go on adventures with and potentially more clients. Being part of an
industry that is growing has a lot more energy than one that is shrinking. We
all add to and feed off that.
LR:
How does yoga play a part in your ‘occupation/life’?
KR:
Yoga is an integral component to my physical and mental well-being.
It puts my head back in place, keeping my body far happier and less prone to
injury. Yoga helps me open my heart to the world. It gives me energy when
drained and calms me when I get crazy. My mind and body are constantly
being blown open by new teachers and energies I experience through my
yoga practice.
LR:
Your vision of your future?
KR:
Just a couple more big trips, then I swear I will be ready to settle down,
but first, there are more beautiful locations to visit. A handsome, fun boyfriend,
my own garden and all my gear in one location where I can respite between
adventures. And a trip to India and Canada each year with a little heli-skiing
added to the mix.
LR:
How do you plan to incorporate your passions in the future to make
this a reality?
KR:
My personal energy is most powerful when I have been in the
mountains. I’d like to utilize this positive force to help transform the current
energy on the planet that seems to be feeding on fear and misconception.
Naheed Henderson and I are strategizing an information gathering and
sharing journey. We envision utilizing our energies garnered from our mountain
experiences to help energize others. Through an amazing year long
exploration of the world, we intend to gather information and images to share
through slideshows, talks and a coffee table book with the people on all seven
continents.
LR:
Top 5 destinations?
KR:
India, the Alps, Canada, more Russia, India.
LR:
Dream trips?
KR:
There are so many mountains…where to begin…I am a
dreamer…people keep telling me I have to stop, but… I’d really like to just be
in Europe more this year. I took a couple years off the Alps, went back last
spring for a month and had my mind blown. For the first time in years, I am
not exactly sure what the next expedition is going to be. Maybe nothing until
early spring.
LR:
Words of wisdom for aspiring ski bums?
KR:
Careful with your credit cards!
Leslie Ross, an accomplished skier in her own right, created Babes in the
Backcountry which specializes in teaching telemark and backcountry skills to
women. Learn more at www.backcountrybabes.com
I
can think of a number of lines I’ve
skied that I could call the fall line.
Imagine the guy (more than likely) who
came up with the name. He was
probably dusting himself off for the
umpteenth time and like Newton and
the apple, it just came to him. . . ‘the fall
line’.
Most skiers know what the fall line is but for
those of you that have missed out on this
key concept, it goes something like this. The
fall line is the most direct path down the hill,
it’s the path a ball would take
using gravity as its direction
or, more relevant, the path
our bodies take in a good
steep tumble, kind of like
your body as a plumb bob.
As skiers, we should develop
fall line compasses, always
keeping an innate sense of
where that fall line is while
we are skiing.
“Some of the most common skier
problems are caused by fear of
the fall line (gravity). When we
fear the fall line, the mind and
body instinctively draw back and
resist the slope below. This
creates a defensive position that
is constantly trying to appose
gravity.”
The fall line is an integral
part of skiing and gravity’s
pull. How we use the fall line
is an indication of our
relationship with it. Do we
fear it? Are we comfortable
enough with it to use it to our
advantage?
There are a number of
reasons to turn our skis. One
that quickly comes to mind is
avoidance. Another of equal
and sometimes greater
importance is speed control.
When we turn our skis out of
the fall line we are effectively
taking a less steep angle
down the hill, which
generally decreases our
speed. When we turn in
combination with skidding
our skis, essentially letting
our uphill edges appose and
be dragged down the fall
line, we are scrubbing
speed. Finally, and of no
minor importance, we turn
because it’s fun and feels
good.
Awareness of the fall line
allows us to know when
we’ve crossed it in a turn, a
critical
juncture
when
downhill edges change to
uphill and uphill edges become downhill. If
you think about which edges you prefer to
be on you know why this is important. Our
most stable and powerful position is on our
uphill edges. If you don’t believe me try
standing on a slope on your downhill edges.
For me, just imagining it is unpleasant.
This crossover of edges is a key transition in
skiing. Until recently (as in the last 5-10
years), we used all manner of contrivances
to get off one set of edges at the end of a
turn, get our skis in the fall line and
reengage our edges as they passed that
neutral point directly down the hill.
Unweighting by stepping, hoping, or just a
load and rebound were all part of releasing
our edges and getting our skis down the fall
line so we could start the next turn in a more
powerful position (that would be on our
uphill edges). Nowadays, skis have side cut
bulging out all over the place and we can be
more subtle with the vertical unweighting.
Big sidecut makes the skis turn like they’re
on steroids. This makes the skis drive out
from underneath us and unweighting
becomes more lateral then vertical. Now we
can engage the edges earlier, before they
reach the fall line. Sometimes. This works
great with speed, groomed snow and good
technique. When the snow gets
deep and dicey unweighting
and engaging your skis in or
past the fall line is still more
stable and more powerful.
Unweighting into the fall line
can be great in steep terrain
too, where eliminating the
acceleration of carving into the
fall line can add a little comfort
and control to the terrain.
Some of the most common
skier problems are caused by
fear of the fall line (gravity).
When we fear the fall line, the
mind and body instinctively
draw back and resist the
slope below. This creates a
defensive position that is
constantly trying to appose
gravity. In a tug-of-war with
gravity it’s a given that you will
at best expend a lot of extra
energy. In the process you
may in some limited fashion
keep it at bay, but you will
never win. Gravity has an
inexhaustible storehouse of
energy to work with and we
have our relatively puny
resources.
The
classic
position for this defensive
stance is the wedge or half
wedge. It has been adapted
by resourceful fall lineaphobs in all turns, from
parallels to telemarks. The
defensive wedge is at its heart
a braced position, braced
against the uphill edge of the
downhill ski regardless of the
turn. That single edge
appears to be the great savior
that will keep the gravity
monster at bay. Does bracing
work? Yes, it does slow us
down and when we brace against an edge
with sidecut (especially on firm snows), the
ski will turn. The inherent weakness of this
style is that it’s static – the bracing is fixed
by fear and consequently is stuck in a
weird mix of tension and resistance. The
wedge is essentially a position of apposed
edges. Its kind of a bunker of edges and
“The alternative to waging war
with the fall line is to work with
it. By tapping into this river of
energy and then guiding or
channeling it, you add its power to
your own rather then using your’s
to resist it.”
Feelin’ the fall line . . .
once people get in the bunker
it seems safe and they never
want to get out.
The alternative to waging war
with the fall line is to work with
it. By tapping into this river of
energy and then guiding or
channeling it, you add its
power to your own rather then
using your’s to resist it. Great
skiers seem to flow down the
hill and that is not far off the
mark. They have figured out
how to literally “go with the
flow”. Imagine yourself floating
down a good sized river with a
strong current. You can direct
yourself to the right or left and
still be going with the current
but if you try to resist the
current you will quickly tire.
This is exactly what gravity is
doing, the only difference is
that the force of gravity
increases with your speed and
the steepness of the fall line.
As you slow or stop you
effectively turn off the tap.
It takes a certain commitment
to move into the fall line and
go with it. Like many activities
where the brain can get in a
serious wedge, dumb it down
to the easiest and most
comfortable level. Go to a
slope that seems absolutely
harmless and try to keep your
turns in the fall line, eliminating
any traversing in between. This
does not mean you have to do
a lot of tight little turns. Think of
your downhill track as a
variation on a sine wave,
where the turns are round and
even from one side to the next,
but as with sine waves, they
can be tight or loose, large
radius or small. Be aware and
play with where you engage
your edges in the new turn,
finding and experimenting with
where in relation to the fall line
this takes place. Remember,
that it’s not on or off the edges
but a gradual or incremental
process of edging and steering.
I use the term natural edging –
when your skis are directly
underneath you (the crossover)
they are flat and the farther
they get out into the belly of a
turn (and out from under you)
the more edge they will have. If
you are skiing in junky snow it’s inevitable – try to keep from
engaging your edges until they
are in or past the fall line.
Developing awareness and
understanding of the fall line
will add power to your skiing
and give you another tool to
work with when faced with
difficult conditions. In the next
issue, I will relate the fall line to
your center, the main ingredient
in keeping you moving with the
flow rather then opposing it.
Nils Larsen teaches freeheel ski
workshops and does product
development for Karhu skis. Nils is
a regular contributor to Off-Piste.
visit www.freeheels.com
its girth, it is not the fastest ski edge to edge but the beta construction gives it a
light swing weight and a responsive feel. The ski ranked consistently high with
testers. But remember that given its size, big boots and above average ski
ability are required to bring the TeleDaddy into its own. In fact, one tester
suggested the TeleDaddy performs best at speed. This ski likes to ride big turns
with speed yet feels remarkably responsive for its width. Another ski that inspires
to point ‘em and enjoy the ride . . .
Black Diamond Havoc – 120/88/113 163, 173, 183cm, densolite core 7 lb15
oz (183cm), $549.00. Another ski that becomes livelier as it gains speed or with
more driver input, the Havoc should please Alpine Touring fans. The torsional
stiffness holds up well to parallel turns and a fixed heel. Freeheelers will find the
ski responds best with a big boot and aggressive style but will run a wide variety
of snow conditions with a confident driver. If you enjoy running at speed with
long radius turns at the top of your list, the Havoc works well in a range of snow
conditions.
K2 Work Stinx 122/89/112;167, 174, 181, 188cm, wood core, 3.8kg (181cm)
$519. K2’s big tele board is made for the days that beg for flotation. A slight
redesign from last season makes the Work a bit quicker edge to edge and
slightly stiffer. Like most of the big boards, the Work is at home making longer
radius turns but scored almost as well for medium radius too. The ski rates high
for all varieties of deep snow but was less inspiring for general resort skiing than
some of its peers in the fat ski department. The Work has a healthy following of
skiers mounting it with Alpine Touring bindings but was designed with a freeheel
in mind and is not as dependent on big boots as the other big boards. If you
already own a pair of mid fats that carve and run a typical resort day, the Work
Stinx makes an excellent tool for the backcountry and deep days at the hill.
E
ach winter, we gather a diverse group of skiers to
evaluate the latest lineup of Telemark and Alpine
Touring skis. The bulk of our testing occurs in bounds at
the resort but we also take the time to get the favorites out for a tour
as well. Following our testing, we debrief the skis and evaluate
each ski’s personality to help give you a basis for making the all
important decision of which ski is for you. Ski choice is largely
dependent on personal skier biases and where you ski. With that in
mind, here is our take on the 2003-04 line-up.
The latest crop of skis aimed at the Telemark and Alpine Touring
markets offers more surface area than ever before and will, no doubt,
offer something to help fine tune your quiver or even convince you to
finally put away those old alpine skis you have converted to tele skis.
Most companies now offer at least one ski that pushes the 100mm
width in the waist and exceeds 120mm in the tip while still offering a
variety of versatile mid fat skis. In addition to ever increasing
dimensions, the newest crop of skis also offers more boards designed
to meet the growing lift served market of telemark skiers. Tele skiing
ain’t what it was even five or six years ago and a few runs on just about
any new ski will help put that statement in perspective.
Skis are broken down into 3 categories, High Performance, All
Mountain with a Backcountry Bias, All Mountain with a Resort Bias.
High Performance: These skis are often viewed as quiver skis. Many
are the biggest boards available and although we tout the all around
versatility of several models, it does take a strong skier to enjoy them in
all conditions. For most folks they make a great compliment to a mid
fat ski, and have inspired more than one tester to consider selling the
house, and quitting the job . . .
All Mountain with a Backcountry Bias: This category is for the skis
that are capable in all snow conditions but are better suited to softer
backcountry snows. Typically a bit softer or with a more even flex
pattern, these skis are an excellent choice for your backcountry
adventures and when the resort is reporting double digits dumps.
All Mountain with a Resort Bias: Here you’ll find skis that perform
well in all conditions but hold up to the firmer snows of the resort better
than the skis with a backcountry bias. If you hit the hill more often than
not and can’t always pick the epic powder days, these skis will keep
you happy.
High Performance
Atomic TeleDaddy – 126/99/116; 163, 173, 183cm, densolite core, 8.1lbs/pair
(183cm) $675. At 99mm underfoot the Tele Daddy is the biggest of the boards
directed at the telemark world. In quintessential Atomic style, the Tele Daddy is a
stable predictable board that shines every time you let it run a little more. Given
K2 Piste Pipe - 112/80/103; 159, 169, 179cm, wood core, 3.5kg (179cm) –
Designed with rail slides and switch landings in mind, the Piste Pipe left most of
our testers feeling less than qualified to speak to its intended uses but the ski
rated well in firm snow and medium radius turns. It holds speed well and will, no
doubt, impress the local fixed heel crowd at the terrain park.
Karhu Jak – 170; 120/90/110, 180; 127/97/117, 190; 127/97/117; wood core,
8lbs/14oz 180cm, $475. Karhu sets a standard in fat skis with the Jak that is
difficult to beat. The ski underwent some minor changes for 2003, namely the
turned up tail has been shortened. Still twin tip in profile, the shortened tail
makes for a more defined back seat on the ski. Understandably at home in the
deepest of snows, the Jak is remarkably versatile and will carve corn snow as
well as it floats in the powder. Given big boots and a confident driver, the Jak
moves between long and short radius turns without complaint. The ski responds
well to both parallel and telemark technique and don’t be surprised to see it
mounted with AT bindings, as it has developed a following from both sides of
the aisle. The most common criticism was simply its weight but any ski with
dimensions like these is unlikely to impress the gram counters. And now the
Jak is available in a lighter more touring friendly construction called the Jak BC.
Karhu Jil – 160cm; 120/90/110, 170cm; 120/90/110, 180cm; 127/97/117,
190cm; 127/97/117 7lbs 4oz, $475 The Jil was not available for our test period
but here are the basics of the ski. The Jil is a slightly lighter version of the Jak
designed specifically for women. By using a different core makeup the weight is
reduced about 10% while still holding the same stiffness and dampness of the
Jak. In addition, the Jil is available in a 160cm length.
Karhu JAK BC –170; 120/90/110, 180; 127/97/117, 190; 127/97/117; 8lbs/2oz
(180cm), $499. Unavailable during our test period, The Jak BC is the lightweight
version of the Jak (12oz lighter per pair) designed for touring and those
preferring a lighter ski. The Titanal power band is replaced with carbon fiber,
giving the ski a lighter snappier feel. The wood core is also lighter with more of
the weight concentrated in the center of the ski, giving the Jak BC a much
quicker swing weight. The dimensions remain the same as for the Jak.
Rossignol’ T4 122/94/112; 168,178,185,195cm, micro cell core,3.94kg
(178cm) $499. Rossignol’ steps up this season with four new models. The T4
replaces the Mega Bang to fill the fat ski profile and, at 94mm, is one of the
larger waisted skis on the market, not to mention that it also comes in a 195cm
making it one of the bigger boards available. The healthy waist is partial to long
radius turns in a variety of softer snows. The T4 fits the Cadillac ride category, but
will leave folks looking for edge to edge speed and a quick turning profile wanting
more. The characteristic damp Rossi feel and healthy dimensions make the T4 a
good match to a big hill, big boots, and big turns.
Voile Carbon Surf –158/168cm 113/83/105; 178cm 120/87/112; 188cm 120/88/
113, carbon fiberglass core, 6.5lbs (178cm), $425. Wow, was the first thing
everyone who picked up a pair of Carbon surfs had to say and that is because
the skis feel light. Obviously designed with the backcountry powder purist in
mind, the Carbon Surf will please a wide range of skiers looking for a
backcountry ski. The ski is noticeably light underfoot, which makes touring a
pleasure and means you do not have to have a big boot to make the ski
respond. Built on the legendary Mountain Surf platform, the Carbon Surf takes
lightweight one step further. Their healthy waist holds it own in the deepest of
snows and the ski favors medium to long radius turnsAs stated, the ski is not
dependent on big boots or even plastic for that matter. One tester took them for
Te s t e r P r o f i l e s & S k i P i c k s
Brenden Thwing
Weight-145lbs
Years Freeheel- 2 yrs
Years Alpine- 26 yrs
Turn Bias - love’em all!
Ski Most Often - 50/50 lift/bc
Extra - Ideal quiver skis mid fat & fat
Ski Picks
Hut Trip to BC: K2 Work Stinx
Spring trip to Alaska: Atomic TM22
Spring volcano skiing: K2 World Piste
Rocky Mtn Resort trip: Atomic TMEX
David Waag
Weight-130lbs
Years Freeheel - 13
Years Alpine - 0
Turn Bias – Medium-short radius tele i
Ski Most Often - 50% backcountry 50% lift
Extra – strapless dresses and toenail
polish
Ski Picks
Hut trip to British Columbia: K2 World Piste
Spring trip to Alaska: Atomic TMEX
Spring volcano skiing: Karhu Jak
Rocky Mtn Resorts: Atomic TM EX
Don Pattison
Weight- 190lbs
Years Freeheel - 25
Years Alpine - 45
Turn Bias- Med. radius parallel on hard
snow - Short radius tele in powder
Ski Most Often- 30% backcountry 70% lift
Extra- Dress size 18 and sparkle nail polish
Ski Picks
Hut trip to BC: Atomic Teledaddy
Spring trip to AK: Atomic Teledaddy
Rocky Mtn Resorts: K2 World Piste
Quick profiles of our test crew as well as their ski picks for a variety of cool trips.
Hal Shaw
Weight- 155lbs
Years Freeheel - 23
Years Alpine - 25
Turn Bias – Medium Radius Tele
Extra - Or was it Mt. Adams, sw chutes
with velvet corn.
Ski Picks
Hut trip to BC: K2 World Piste
Spring trip to AK: K2 World Piste
Rocky Mtn Resorts: K2 World Piste
Karen Holt
Weight- 115lbs
Years Freeheel - 14
Years Alpine - 25
Turn Bias - Medium radius tele in the
powder, Medium radius parallel on firm snow
Extra – Girls Rule
Ski Picks
Hut trip to BC: K2 She’s Piste
Spring trip to AK: K2 World-Piste
Spring volcano skiing: Atomic TMEX
Rocky Mtn Resort trip: K2 Instinx
Jeff Schuh
Weight - 185lbs
Years Freeheel -17
Years Alpine - 20 before switching to tele
Turn Bias - Parallel in the fluff and
backcountry. Mixed in-bounds. Medium
to short radius
Ski Most Often - Mostly backcountry
Extra - I like skis that turn well but don’t do
all the work for you
Larry Goldie
Weight-140lbs
Years Freeheel - 10
Years Alpine - 16
Turn Bias - Short radius tele and parallel
Extra - I live for powder
Ski Picks
Hut trip to British Columbia: K2World Piste
Spring volcano skiing:K2 World Piste
Rocky Mtn Resort trip: Karhu Jak
Jeremy Rooper
Weight- 205
Years Freeheel - 15
Years Alpine - 22
Turn Bias – Medium to Long Radius
Extra – 90% Tele 10% AT
Ski Picks
Hut Trip BC: Voile carbon surf 188 (tele)
Spring Alaska Trip: Karhu Jak 190 (tele)
Spring Volcano Skiing: World Piste 188
(tele or AT)
Rocky Mtn resort trip: TM EX 191 (tele)
Nathan DeVol
Weight- 140lbs
Years Freeheel - 10
Years Alpine - 0
Turn Bias- Tele - Medium to Long
Ski Most Often- 10% bc 90% lift
Ski Picks
Hut trip to BC: Voile Carbon Surf
Spring trip to AK: K2 Work Stinx
Spring volcano trips: Atomic TM EX
Rocky Mtn Resort trip: Atomic TM EX
Ray Thomas
Weight- 155lbs
Years Freeheel- 12
Years Alpine- 20
Turn Bias– Medium to long radius tele /
parallel in deep powder
Extra – Taught tele and Alpine for many
years
Ski Picks
Hut trip to BC: Atomic TM EX
Spring trip to AK: K2 Work Stinx
Spring volcano skiing: Atomic TM EX
Rocky Mtn Resort trip: Karhu Ryder
Ryan Choate
Weight-190lbs
Years freeheel-3
Years alpine-21
Turn bias- short radius tele steeps/pow
Ski most often- 40% bc, 60% resort
Extra- Fixed Heel never, Tele forever
Ski Picks
Hut trip to BC: K2 Work Stinx
Spring trip to AK: Atomic TeleDaddy
Spring volcano skiing:K2 World Piste
Rocky Mtn Resort trip:Atomic TM EX
Todd Wells
Weight- 180lbs
Years Freeheel - 20
Years Alpine- 30
Turn Bias– med. radius parallel – tele in pow
Ski Most Often– 75% lift 25%bc
Extra– Been skiing alpine skis with tele
gear since mid 80’s, glad to see tele skis
evolve to meet our needs
Ski Picks
Hut trip to BC: Atomic TMEX
Spring volcano skiing: Atomic TMEX
Rocky Mtn Resort trip: Atomic Tele Daddy
Skier: Luke Miller
Location: The Alps
Photographer: Chase Jarvis
Skier: Molly Douma
Location: Utah’s Wasatch
Photographer: Carl Skoog
“Nobody realizes that some people expend
tremendous energy merely to be normal.”
- Albert Camus
Rider: Aaron Sales
Location: Mammoth
Photographer: Dan Gavere
“It is dangerous to be right
when the government is wrong.”
- Voltaire
Skiers: Don Scharfe, Nathan Sande & Jandy Cox
Location: Swan Range, Montana
Photographer: Heath A. Korvola/Liquidlight Foto
THE
TROGLODYTE
I
ntroducing, the TROGLODYTE, a new cartoon strip to be featured in each issue of Off-Piste. Now before you get your
panties in a twist over the fact that this episode features snowboarders, the TROGLODYTE is not just about snowboarders.
TROGLODYTES are everywhere in our culture and we assure you that we will feature many different TROGLODYTES
throughout the season.
Scenes and Dialog by Gene Dwarkin
Illustrations by EGO
pair of socks or between the
outer sock and the footwear
rarely causes blisters.
A Closer Look at Prevention and Treatment
by Paul Nicolazzo
B
listers are equal
opportunists. It does
not matter what activity you
pursue, if you are active in
the outdoors, chances are
you have, at some point,
suffered the bane of
blisters.
time to be derailed by an open
oozing blister.
Myths and methods abound for
prevention and treatment alike.
In order to separate myth from
truth, we must first understand
the forces that create blisters.
MECHANISM
Shear
You know the routine, an initial
“hot spot” warns of their onset
and far too often we simply
ignore it. Eventually, there is the
subsequent burning pain as
fluid seeps between the skin
layers and, finally, although
often too late to stop it, the
actual blister demands our
attention.
Some people seem prone to
blisters and others immune.
Most blisters occur on the feet
and significant blisters can
derail a trip. Day two on a hut
trip that you have been
planning for a full year is no
OF
Shear forces are exerted on our
skin, socks, and footwear as we
walk, run, ski, etc. When the
force is strong enough to
breakdown
the
surface
resistance between two layers,
movement
results.
With
movement, comes friction and
with friction comes heat (hence
the term “hot spots”).
Movement on the surface of the
skin or between the skin’s
layers is responsible for blister
formation hence the importance
of sock choice and footwear fit.
Movement between multiple
a
PREVENTION
Conceptually, prevention is
three-fold: 1) reduce general
movement between layers in
the
footwear
system,
especially in or on the skin; 2)
reduce friction and heat in, on,
or near the skin; and, 3)
deliberately create a “weak”
shear layer as far from the skin
as possible.
• Paint the affected areas with
tincture of Benzoin and cover
with cloth tape. Duct or pipe
tape is okay if it the adhesive
doesn’t irritate your skin. You
will only know after you try it. I
prefer cloth tape. CAUTION:
Benzoin may cause skin
irritation.
• Choose well fitted footwear.
Remember to size your boots
with the socks you will be
wearing
• Choose good quality socks
appropriate to the activity.
• Make sure leather boots are
well broken in.
• Custom footbeds or liners in
both ski and climbing boots go
a long way in achieving a
perfect fit.
Reduce
friction:
• Keep your feet, socks, and
boots clean; wash them on a
regular basis.
• Wear gaiters to help eliminate
dirt, gravel, and snow from
contaminating your system.
INJURY
Forces
create
layer
• Wear a pair of liner socks and
a pair of shock-absorbing
socks.
Reduce general movement:
Blisters Revisited
Deliberately
weak shear
• Keep your feet dry. Wet skin
increases
the
surface
adhesion while reducing the
shear forces between the skin
layers. Plastic shells and vapor
barrier socks often exacerbate
blister issues by trapping
moisture next to the skin. Use
synthetic socks next to your
skin to wick excess moisture
away from the surface and, if
possible, air and dry your feet
on a regular basis. If you have
consistently moist skin (and
blisters), you need to change
your socks more frequently, air
your feet out so that they
remain dryer, or use less
insulated footwear/socks.
• Use ShearBan on socks or
footwear where there is a
history of blister formation (it is
not designed for direct skin
application). ShearBan is a
Teflon coated material originally
designed for the prosthetics
industry that reduces the shear
forces between the socks or
between the socks and
footwear. I’ve field tested it for
the past two years and found it
to be amazing. Find out more
about
ShearBan
at
www.wildmedcenter.com
TROUBLE
SHOOTING
• Are you giving your skin
enough time to toughen under
a new activity before pushing
hard? If not, take it easier or
add skin protection.
• Is there a pattern to where the
blisters appear (back of heals,
instep, etc.)? If so, this is a
potentially weak area and
needs more time to toughen. Or
you can try adding skin
protection such as ShearBan.
• Are the blisters related to a
specific activity? If so, your
boot/sock combination may not
be as good as it could be.
PREVENTION
SUMMARY
• Wear well-fitted and appropriate
socks/footwear.
• Keep feet/socks clean, cool,
& dry.
• Use a blister (liner) sock & a
AVALANCHE SAFETY CHECKLIST
BEFORE
YOU
LEAVE
___ Check weather / avalanche forecast / local authorities
___ Consider group abilities, experience, compatibility
___ Leave a trip itinerary with a friend
___ Select several viable objectives to provide multiple options for success
___ Be sure your planned route is suitable for current and forecast conditions
___ Avalanche beacon, probes & shovel? Know how to use them & practiced?
___ Choose competant partners
IN THE FIELD
Human Factors – Are there issues that overshadow prudent decisions
___ Goal-Orientation: Is a single objective blinding you? (a summit, a
particular slope)
___ Invulnerability
___ Herd mentality taking over?
___ Rationalization
___ Technical skill outpacing your avalanche knowledge and skills?
___ Reassess: continually
Terrain – Is it suitable for avalanches?
___ Slope Angle - Measure it! (30-45 degrees are most common)
___Slope Aspect - Leeward? Wind-loaded? Shaded? Sunexposed?
___ Slope Shape – Convex rolls? Open? Bowl? Gully? Corniced?
___ Slope Anchors – Vegetation, Rock outcrops, Benches: Are they
anchors or weak points?
___ What are the consequences if it goes?
___ Terrain Traps – Narrow gullies, cliffs, crevasses, trees, rocks
Photo: Chad Coleman
I
magine if you had a checklist and that by
completing it you would have a definitive answer as
to whether or not a particular slope is safe? Simply
plug in your observations and get a ‘yes’ or ‘no’
answer regarding whether or not the slope will slide.
Sounds too good to be true doesn’t it? Yes, indeed it
would be nice, but snow stability analysis is not quite
that cut and dry. If it were, only fools would be injured
or killed by avalanches.
Would you settle for a checklist to prompt you regarding the
essential questions to ask when evaluating avalanche
danger, so the rest of your brain can salivate over the
rewards you are about to receive for trudging through the
snow? A cheat sheet, if you will, that you can carry in the
field listing key observations to make and factors to assess?
You might be thinking, “Just how much is this going to cost
me?” You might pay upwards of $20 or $30 for such a
product under certain circumstances, but Off-Piste is footing
the bill on this one. Once again, offering you fantastic value
at no additional cost! How can this be? We could tell you,
but then we would have to . . . well . . . you know.
Making wise decisions in the backcountry is a matter of
knowing the basics, understanding what to look for, and then
continually reassessing your surroundings. It sounds
simple, but it is easy to overlook a clue or two especially
when your main concern is that fresh line and not snowpack
stability. Consider taking this checklist out with you into the
backcountry. Hide it in your pocket, sneak a peak at it now
and then and impress you friends with your incredible offthe-cuff insight into the avy world.
Snowpack – Might it slide? Is it unstable?
Obvious Signs of Instability
___ Recent avalanches on similar slopes
___ ”Whumphing” sounds, or shooting cracks
___ Consistent “Very Easy” or “Easy” failures upon testing
___ HIGH or EXTREME Avalanche Bulletin Danger Level
Other Clues of Instability
___ Fresh snow in the past 24 hours
___ Sudden temperature rise or first sunshine on new snow
___ Consistent ”Easy” or “Moderate” failures upon testing
___ CONSIDERABLE or higher Avalanche Bulletin Danger Level
Weather – Has it? Is it? or Will it contribute to instability?
___ Precipitation – Type, amount, intensity, duration
___ Wind transport of snow causing loading on lee slopes (further
stressing snowpack)?
___ Temperature - Rising temps or sun causing loss of snow
strength? - Prolonged cold temps causing faceting?
TRAVEL
___ Avalanche beacon check at trailhead
___ Look at terrain, weather and snowpack clues – speak up!
___ Stay on ridge lines / flanks of open slopes
___ One person at a time crosses suspect slopes – cross high
___ Watch those crossing suspect slopes
___ Follow using the same track; move quickly between safe areas
___ Be ready to ditch gear
-Do not use pole straps
-Remove equipment leashes
-Use releasable binding when available
___ Continually look for escape routes – what if the slope releases?
__ Choose safe rest areas & campsites – check for hidden tracks
& runout zones – consult map
Checklist created by Roland Emataz and Glenn Kessler
Glenn Kessler is Lead Climbing Ranger at Mt Rainier National Park. He is an
affiliate member of the Canadian Avalanche Association. and has been
instructing ski mountaineering, backcountry skiing and avalanche courses
for more than 10 years. www.mountainsavvy.com
In the next issue, page two of the checklist provides what to do if caught
and step-by-step Rescue Procedures.
The End of an Era
A Retrospective Look at Tua Skis
by Ray Thomas
‘fat and wide’, the Excalibur (90/70/79) and Excalibur Magnum. The alpine
touring market in the US was very small and these skis were quite popular
with this crowd as well as tele folks in places like the Sierras and Cascades.
The backcountry and telemark ski community was in a formative stage in
the late ‘80’s. Steve Hardesty, president of Cima Sports, the North American
distributor of Tua Skis for many years, explained it this way, “The tele market
was pretty laid back. Mostly renegade backcountry tourers looking to dial it
up a notch and a few disenchanted ex-alpine hotshots looking for a new
scene. The gear was improving but still pretty primitive – a garage workshop
was practically a prerequisite to participate in the sport.”
Asolo’s Extreme Plus and later Scarpa’s Boot Sauvage and Boot Expresso
defined the performance telemark boot. Bindings were mostly three-pin and
basic cable. Tua skis were introduced into a market dominated by Rossignol
and Karhu. From the very beginning Tua focused on quality construction
and technological innovation. Every ski, from those first few in the Great
Pacific catalog to last season’s skis, used solid wood cores. Skiers will also
remember Tua’s ‘Driving Effect’, the variable angle sidewall that helped the
skis deliver their excellent deep snow performance.
In the winter of ‘88 Tua again introduced a definitive telemark ski - the Tele
Sauvage. It was a radically designed ski for its day with 20mm of side cut.
With dimensions of 80/60/70 it was also as wide as some alpine slalom skis.
Though some people in the backcountry ski community thought it was too
much like an alpine ski, many skiers loved them and the Tele Sauvage
became THE ski to have and remained that way for several seasons. Parker
had this to say about the Tele Sauvage. “In developing subsequent skis, I
always used it as my benchmark. It was hard to develop something that
skied better.”
Telemark ski design took another radical departure from the status quo
when Tua introduced the Montet MX in 1993. It was the first monocoque
telemark ski and a very wide ride for the day at 84/64/74. Over the next year
Tua switched all their models over to monocoque construction. This gave
them skis that were light and quick turning with great torsional rigidity. What
helped bring about this new level of ski performance was another radical
departure from the norm – Scarpa’s introduction of the all-plastic Terminator
tele boot in the early ‘90s. This boot made it possible to control wider more
side cut skis.
The 1987 Great Pacific Catalog, the first time Tua skis were offered in the US.
F
or many backcountry skiers August 7th marked the end of an
era. On that day Gestione Sport Alpini s.r.l., the parent
company of Tua skis, announced that it had filed papers for the
Italian version of Chapter 11. Tua has had a long and intimate
With the advent of plastic boots and wider more easily turned skis, telemark
skiing began a new renaissance. No longer was telemark skiing simply a
backcountry pursuit, it became more common at the ski areas too.
Telemarkers were no longer ‘hope turning’ their way down steep lines, but
ripping it with the best of their fixed heel siblings. As freeheel skiing’s
popularity rose, the larger alpine ski companies began to join the game. As
a result, the smaller backcountry rooted companies lost market share.
Manufactures like K2 and Atomic adapted their alpine ski molds to telemark
needs and created skis at lower cost. Tua responded to this competition
with new technologies and a series of increasingly wide and shaped ski still
known for their sweet flex.
relationship with the backcountry skiing world. Tua’s ski history dates back
to just after World War II when Nanni Tua’s father converted the family
machine shop business into a ski factory. Nanni’s father died quite young
and as a result Nanni took over the factory at an early age. They sold Alpine
skis but it was tough to compete with the big guys, so they became better
known as a specialty ski manufacturer focused on Alpine Touring and more
recently telemark skis. Tua was well known in Europe in the mid-80s for AT
skis, specifically the Excalibur. It was right around that time that Chouinard
Equipment brought them into the United States.
In North America, Tua skis helped to fuel the rebirth of telemark skiing. For
many long-time freeheelers, the name Tua is synonymous with the
backcountry and sweet flex. While the brand had some difficult times over
the years, they were coming back strong and had experienced several
seasons of successful models and had designed some big hits for the
2003/4 season. Thus the news of bankruptcy was a shock to most of the ski
community. Tua may yet reorganize and provide their brand of skis to the
backcountry market, the future is uncertain. While we wait to know what
happens next, lets look back and remember the fine rides that Tua Ski has
brought us.
Tua skis first appeared in the third Great Pacific Catalog, winter’87. Great
Pacific was a retail mail-order enterprise, a division of Chouinard Equipment,
which focused solely on the
backcountry skiing market; it was
the first of its kind. Paul Parker, who
would later go on to write one of
the definitive telemark books
‘Freeheel Skiing’ and help design
Tua skis, was at the time a
Chouinard Equipment employee
who spearheaded the GPC
enterprise. He personally selected
and tested all the gear that would
be available in the catalog and
wrote the copy as well. Parker was
also instrumental in getting those
first Tuas into the catalog and right
from the start they were a hit. The
legendary Tout Neige (74/60/64)
made its appearance as a very solid
and stable ski that was confidence
inspiring in difficult snow
conditions. Tua also introduced
The Expresso and Toute Neige circa 1987 two skis that were some of the first
The Original TeleSavage circa 1988
The Big Easy (100/72/90) introduced in ’99 and the Sumo (110/76/100) of ’01
were very successful for Tua. Both skis excelled in the backcountry and at
the ski area. The Sumo was especially noteworthy as it pushed the concept
of what a ‘wide’ tele ski looked like. Tua was also very aware that many of
the new freeheel skiers who were pushing the boundaries of the sport came
from alpine backgrounds and demanded alpine style performance from their
skis. So in response, Tua introduced the Cross-Ride series of skis in 2001.
The 110, 112 and 105 were stiff and stable at speed and appropriate for both
fixed and free heel mountings. The Cross-Ride 110 (110/76/100) was an
instant classic garnering top ski reviews and editor’s choice awards for
several seasons. Tua didn’t forget about the backcountry purist either with
the creation of the Cross-Light series. Started in ’00 with the Helium (100/72/
90 and narrow for the day) the line soon expanded with wider offerings, the
Hydrogen (103/73/93) and the Nitrogen (107/75/100).
What was the ‘03/’04 season going to bring from Tua? The line would have
seen the introduction of several new models and all new graphics. Three
skis would have been especially important The Bubba(126/93/113) , The
Tsunami (121/83/104), and the Titan. The Titan replaced the Cross-Ride 112,
with the same dimensions but with Titanal construction. The Tsunami and
Bubba would have been the widest skis ever produced by Tua as well as the
first telemark skis with ‘Cross-Cap Construction’ (technology, found in
some alpine skis that combines sandwich construction under foot with the
torsional rigidity of monocoque at the tip and tail.
Before the snow flies, we may yet know if Tua Ski will live again. Until then,
hold onto those Tuas you might have. Enjoy the sweet flex and remember the
role that Tua played in helping to shape the telemark world as we know it.
Special Thanks goes to Paul Parker and Steve Hardesty for the help in making
this article possible.
“A unique gathering of elements that can turn
seconds into a memory tightly bound to your soul.
Love them, know that they exist but do not dwell
to long as the next moment may slip right bye.”
that can turn seconds into a memory tightly bound
to your soul. Love them, know that they exist but do
not dwell to long as the next moment may slip right
bye.
A
O
ne hundred days of solitude an inevitable eventuality of
the way I live my life. With my own power, energy, and
determination I’ve ski toured my first century of days. A
landmark quickly overshadowed by my love of skiing and the
multitude of mountain adventures shared with beautiful friends.
A deep spring overflowing with thoughtful emotions and
discovery. The incredible feeling invoked while being caressed
by the strong fingers of gravity, a root that binds us. Memories of
moments so real they have become a part of us forever . . .
F
resh track attack; beautiful bowl before me unscathed by
human touch, easy route finding winds through a down
covered alpine amphitheater, my partner behind, nearly hidden
within an awesome tapestry. Ahead lies a ridge with multiple
snowy fingers that reaches for us. Softly caressing our skis and
imagination while luring us upwards. Invigorating physical
exertion brings on meditation. With ease this track climbs.
Decisions like a blinking eye, reflexive. As if a trail already exists
skis and body on a smoothly wandering conveyor to the top.
Insulation accompaniment while waiting for minutes I enjoy the
panoramic silence that is this day. A radiant smiling face catches
up, high on clean air and alpine splendor. Now we climb steeply,
just below a rocky ridge profile to a notch and our first glimpse of
the dreams that lie beyond. Straight up rock and snow with skis
on our packs. The moment is intense. Your turn my friend to lead
me to the top and be the first today to stand on this summit. You
are clearly alive with this opportunity. Confidence shared with
what you told me on top of this mountain. Today this is exactly
where you and I belong. Winter cold knocks and inspires action .
. . perfect fall line peaceful. Down and down with the occasional
backward stare at our chosen peak and fresh tilled tracks. Down
to where there is yet to be snow in this early season gift
exchange and the end of a beautiful day.
Highlights of a season, events clustered like mushrooms grow.
Some just stand a little bit taller. A unique gathering of elements
quest, a dream, and an obsession, so delicious
is the cool taste of deep powder. Storm cycle
consistency, the surface snow yields a ridiculous
reality. Three friends confident and comfortable,
climb through the raging storm and waist deep
beauty. Tree bomb hazard, snow mushrooms like
giant raindrops fall straight. Poof! I know the line. Pitch perfect
for today’s intimate interface. Plowing, pushing and groveling to
a sweet horizon. Discussion left where we ripped our skins.
Impossible to plan the perfection of the next thirty seconds.
Three charging bulls flow effortlessly through tree matador
gateways. Together and apart our pillow plume residue and
expelled whoops left behind. Heart beating like thunderclaps,
regular and strong. Seconds like hours. We come together
relaxed and shining. White covered beard and useless goggles
prompt laughter, pole clink cheers all around. Champagne goes
down easy when you don’t think about it.
T
he feeling comes with elevation gained. Wind whipped ridge
we climb with confidence. On top body buzzing with
adrenaline. Elated screams of moments lived. Damn I love this
life. Pure reality realized. I am full. With shared erupting laughter
we slide exhausted to the top to tempt a neighbor we have been
meaning to visit for a while. So nice to meet you in this early
season brilliance. Friend’s yelp from ridge viewpoint, a call to
meet. Motivation needed to climb again. Fully charged burnt out
body amp’d for more and more and more. Let us pay tribute to a
mountain friend who lived to play and explore wild places. Like
us, most alive when on the sharp end of life. Pushing ourselves,
learning as living. Shining spirits soar when challenged by
focused experiences and unrehearsed dances performed to
personal perfection.
I
t’s dark now. Dreams, moments of old are forgotten as morning
plan alarms explode. We have a goal today. A ridgeline, a
winter sanctuary. Fresh brewed coffee prepared hours before
eliminates any doubts. Short drive with mellow tunes and
personal silence. Time to focus on today’s adventure, we are
going to a new place, one we have both seen but do not know.
Valley bottom cloud is an uncertainty soon punctured by
elevation. A great blue sea opens above and all around. Below
the cloud capped valley flows with a river’s character. Never
have clouds been as animated as today. Upwards lies our goal.
Just in sight, ridge top bronzed with today’s first life rays.
Beautiful dry boot-top powder pummels my
chest with every turn. It is April 24th, six
months plus a day since my first turns of the
season and I’m still smiling and expelling
excited shouts with every turn.
Wow comes to mind.
Awesome the virgin face below. Tiny are we and alone on our
ridge top goal waiting for the perfect moment. So alive as we
swirl down in gentle arcs leaving trails and floating plumes
disturbing perfection that will return tomorrow.
A
s an incredible season comes to a close I’ve been tempted
once more into the mountains. The lure of fresh adventure
and the prospect of touring to a place I’ve never been still
manages to overpower my exhausted motivation. Perfect spring
promotes early mornings to contour south slopes and the wintry
north side beyond. Beautiful dry boot-top powder pummels my
chest with every turn. It is April 24th, six months plus a day since
my first turns of the season and I’m still smiling and expelling
excited shouts with every turn. Wow comes to mind. A third of
our day done we tour up a mellow glacier inspired by the two
peaks and a pass before us. Summits glow irresistibly with
today’s conditions, snow preserved perfectly by cold weather
and broken clouds. Upwards we skin until steep pitch and
sloughing snow indicate its time to boot pack. A smooth shaved
face, a perfect ridge, and beyond to a summit turret offering
three hundred and sixty degrees of visual stimulation.
High five cheers and laughter, hard to believe to string of days
we’ve put together. Steep face demands control. Second turn
brings a stoplight, a shooting fracture and I cut out to watch as a
soft slab avalanche tumbles down below. Hazard gone we
swoosh to a glacial bench: a fine place to rest and skin up one
more time. Short climb through well bridged crevasse field to
another short boot pack and our third summit of the day. Crazy
the century of incredible days we’ve had this year. Everyone
highlighted with memories of good times shared with my
spectrum of friends. One more to live. Visual confirmation of an
awesome south face we’ve looked at all year, only now we are
looking down. Line of sight to the valley bottom, 3000 feet below.
Rock spines like porcupine quills stretch up, erect menacing
obstacles to be avoided. Bed surface melt freeze bomber for our
descent of slow controlled jump turns. Easy does it down and
out. Wow, again. To the end from the beginning, thanks for an
incredible season.
Myles Berney spends his summer planting trees and his winters skiing
the backcountry of British Columbia.
Ski Review ‘03-’04
a tour in her leather boots and was all smiles. There are better choices for an all
mountain resort ski but if you have the luxury to own a dedicated touring board,
the Carbon Surf is sure to please. Made in the USA.
All Mountain Backcountry Bias
Atomic TM EX – 118/84/110, 168, 177, 184, 191, 198cm, densolite core, 7.8lbs/
pair (184cm) $643 Like the World Piste, the TM-EX makes a great argument for a
quiver of one. Pleasing a wide range of skiers in a wide range of snows, the TM EX
can dish out about any turn style in just about any snow condition. There is a small
preference for higher speeds and larger radius moves but even a less aggressive
intermediate skier with a big boot will get results with the TM EX. The TM EX has a
healthy Alpine Touring following but responds just fine to a good telemark turn. Like
we said last year, you might own other skis, but once the TM EX joins your quiver,
you might just forget about your other skis.
Black Diamond Mira – 112/79/102, 162, 175, 188cm, densolite core, 6lbs 15oz
(175cm), $499. A solid predictable ski, the Mira is responsive when you ask it to be.
The Mira’s personality does not stand out in a crowd but the ski will rise to just about
any occasion with a little push from the driver. With a reasonably light swing weight
the ski comes around quickly and is a good match for a variety of technical abilities.
Beginners will find it predictable; while more advanced skiers will find the ski
responds well when given more energy.
K2 World Piste 114/78/105 167, 174, 181, 188, wood core, 6.97lbs (181cm) $479.
Quiver of one was used by several of our testers to summarize the World Piste. The
ski sets a great standard for the all mountain backcountry bias category. It turns with
ease, will please a variety of turn styles, floats the deep snows, and makes short
work of any variable conditions. The World is a capable resort board too but if there
was one criticism to be heard it comes from bigger skiers on firm snow at speed.
There are other skis better suited to such situations. A great choice for the NW and
Canada and any time the conditions are mixed or variable. The World has inspired
many memorable days in the backcountry and is no stranger at the ski hill.
K2 Super Stinx -107/70/97; 167, 174, 181, 188 wood core, 3170 grams (181cm),
$479.00. Unchanged for several seasons, the Super Stinx rated highly in soft snow
with a medium radius turn bias. Several testers noted the ski responds best to
consistent input and felt more at home in parallel mode than in telemark. Another
commented that it is the ideal ski for alpine ski converts. With its predictable nature,
the Super will be at home on the hill or touring but is not the ski of choice for the
hard chargin’ carving crowd.
continued
SKI SIZING
You have studied all the new ski reviews and sampled everything you
could at the ski demos. Your friends have been subjected to endless
questions and the folks at the local ski shop now know you by name.
But all the hard work has paid off and you’ve finally decided on your new
boards. Yet perhaps the toughest question remains. ‘What length is the
best for me?’
In days of old the decision was easy, stand up, arm reaching above your
head, and the right ski was the one whose tip came up to your wrist.
Back then, telemark ski technology had not progressed far from its
nordic roots and skis were sized much like their track and touring
siblings. The idea was to use ski length to balance the height and weight
of the skier. This method was fine for moving in a straight line but didn’t
make for easy turning. As tele skis evolved to be more like alpine skis,
developing wider and more shaped profiles, tele skis got shorter. Skis
now support their driver through width and torsional stiffness. The new
shaped profiles allow skis to turn with less effort by using pressure and
the mechanics of the ski’s shape.
The main source of pressure on a ski is the weight of the skier. The
basic idea in sizing says that a lighter skier can ski a shorter ski more
effectively and vice versa. More and more skis are topping out in the
190cm zone for length and adding more choices between 160cm and
175cm. So the trend is obviously to go shorter than even a few years
ago, particularly with the fat skis. That said, how do you decide between
the 174cm and the 181cm? Well, there are several additional factors to
consider when looking at ski length. These factors include, ski flex, skier
ability, and boot choice. All of these factors affect the transfer of pressure
to the ski, the bigger the boot and the more aggressive the skier, the
more pressure that will get applied to the ski. The stiffer the ski, the more
pressure that is required to carve the ski. So, if the skis you are
considering are considered stiff, you are an intermediate skier, and you
run a moderate boot (like a T2), you should go with the shorter size ski.
Conversely, if you are an aggressive big booted skier and the skis are
relatively soft, you can likely go with the longer size.
Remember that skis do not need to be long to work well. Today’s shorter
skis provide all the performance needed and are easier to turn as well. If
possible, a couple sizes of a chosen ski model should be tested before
making the final choice. - Ray Thomas
All Mountain Resort Bias
Atomic TM22 – 106/72/98 - 160,170,180,190,200cm - densolite core , 6lbs 3oz
K2 She’s Piste - 107/70/97; 153, 160, 167, 174, 181, wood core, 2.7 kg (181cm)
$459. Following the Super Stinx platform, the She’s Piste was developed with input
from female skiers to better meet their needs. The result is a responsive ski with a
light swing weight. The graphics catch everyone’s attention and the ski appealed to
a wide range of skier abilities. Given its softer flex profile, the biggest criticism was
hard snow and crud performance.
(180cm), $475. A proven all around ski, the TM 22 has a reputation as a utilitarian
tool to meet your needs in and out of the ski area. The ski responds well to all
sizes of skiers and makes for a good introductory ski. A few testers found the ski
to have a stronger sweet spot in parallel than in tele so it may appeal to those
with an alpine background. Regardless of your turn bias, from casual
backcountry user to helmet sportin’ rippers, the TM22 serves well.
K2 Instinx - 117/78/105 160, 167, 174, wood core 3 kg (174cm), $479 Based on
the success of the She’s Piste, K2 undertook the same process to develop their
second Women’s specific ski, one with a bigger appetite for soft snow, the InStinx.
Similar in dimension to the World, the InStinx is its own ski. Soft flex and a wide
shovel make it a nice tool for deep and backcountry days. Although several male
testers found the ski too soft for daily resort skiing, female testers were less critical
of the ski in firm snow.
Atomic TM-RX –104/64/91, 160, 170, 180, 190cm 6.2lbs (180cm), $349 The
sportiest board in the Atomic line the RX appeals to the hardpack crowd and
folks looking to carve groomers. It is responsive, favoring short and medium
radius turns, yet it holds it own at speed. It has an on piste bias and will appeal to
all levels of skiers.
K2 Piste Stinx 102/70/91; 167, 174, 181, wood core, 2.9 kg (181cm) $399– The
Piste Stinx is a predictable all around ski. Updated last season, it may not be the
fattest or the sportiest ski around but it is a stable and capable board. The
moderate waist keeps the ski useful at the ski hill and offers reasonable float in
deeper snow. The Piste Stinx is a good choice for beginners and anyone
upgrading from an old school board.
K2 Shuksan - 114/78/105 160, 167, 174, 181, wood core, 3.1kg (185cm) $459.
The Shuksan went in for a remodel this summer and the new version offers the
same dimensions as the World Piste with a tighter flex pattern. The result is a ski
that responds well to a locked heel (it’s intended market) and runs the range of
snow conditions found in the backcountry.
Karhu Ryder - 192cm: 109/74/101; 185cm: 107/74/99; 177cm: 104/74/97, wood
core, 6lb-6oz (185cm) $400 – Testers were in agreement that the Ryder is more at
home in untracked backcountry snows than standing in the lift line awaiting
groomers. Healthy dimensions and a soft even flex make for a smooth turning
consistent radius ski. Stable and consistent in soft snows, the Ryder is less
confident in varied firm snow of the resort. Though lighter skiers will find it a
capable resort ski. It prefers to tele and excels at a true two footed tele carve.
Black Diamond Nunyo - 107/73/97 - 159, 167, 175, 183, 191cm, densolite
core, 7 lb. 1 oz. (183s) $499.00. The Nunyo is a responsive ski that holds a nice
carve in firm snow. One tester found it the liveliest of the Black Diamond skis.
Although not a powder pig by today’s standards, given the 73mm waist and
healthy tip, the Nunyo is a versatile ski. The ski rated well among our testers as an
all mountain resort board whether you live in the Rockies, the Pacific Northwest,
or New England.
Black Diamond Crossbow – 115/82/105 163, 171, 179, 187cm 7 lb. 5 oz.
(179cm) densolite core, $549.00. The Crossbow is a stiff flexing board for
aggressive freeheel and AT skiers. The ski has healthy dimensions and skis big so
be prepared to step down in size from what you may be used to. The densolite
core helps keep the ski light for its size but the Crossbow responds best to big
boots and big quads. Testers found a bias for medium to long radius parallel
turns.
Karhu Rox –110/73/98, 165,175,185cm, 3lbs 7oz (165cm), wood core, $450. The
sports car of the Karhu line, the Rox was designed with firm snow in mind. It is a
short radius carving ski and its responsive nature comes from its aggressive side
cut, rigid construction, and lightweight. That said, it is not afraid to run fast on the
hardpack and will no doubt find a few fans in New England. Although we did not
have a chance to try it with a fixed heel, it could also be good match for an Alpine
Touring setup come spring.
Karhu Ruckit - 170cm: 107/76/97, 180cm: 107/76/97 170cm, 180cm, 3lbs 6oz
(170cm), wood core, $400 – Twin tip construction sets the Ruckit up for use in the
terrain park but an even flex and healthy dimensions make for all mountain
versatility. Its flex is better suited to the firm snows of the ski area but one tester
responded that it skied the cut up mixed conditions well. It favors medium radius
turns.
Rossignol T3 - 113/73/103 150, 160, 170,176, 182, 190 micro cell core,
3.5kg(176), $449. The second biggest ski in the Rossi line, the T3 finds a home in
the all mountain category. The ski elicited several comments about parallel turning
and multiple testers suggested the T3 as a good alpine skier crossover ski. It holds
speed well and is suited to a deliberate carver in search of corduroy.
Rossignol T2 - 109/70/99; 150,160,170,176,182,190cm micro cell core,6lbs 9oz
(176cm), $399. The T2 shares almost the same dimensions as the T1 (tail is 1mm
bigger) but the ski is stiffer flexing. The result is a versatile ski that responds better
to a more aggressive driver and or firmer snows. The ski will track just about any
turn radius and is most at home on the ski hill.
Rossignol T1 - 109/70/98, 150,160,170,180 wood core, 6.8lbs (170cm) $299.
The T1 is the softest flexing ski in the Rossi line yet it still maintains some of the
characteristic damp Rossi feel. Testers found it predictable and capable, a great
introductory ski, especially given the price. With lengths beginning at 150cm, it
makes a great youth ski.
WHAT’S UP
continued
the land management agencies during their planning stages to ensure that the
interests of non-motorized winter recreationists are understood and included in
the plan. Check our website backcountryalliance.org) for further information on
how you can become involved and preserve a quiet, untracked winter
experience.
Powder Keg Sanctioned
Black Diamond Equipment is proud to announce the elevated status of their
Wasatch PowderKeg event for 2004. Sponsored by Patagonia, the Black
Diamond Wasatch PowderKeg will be the third and final stop on the International
Council for Ski Mountaineering Competitions (ISMC) World Cup Tour. The date of
the PowderKeg, a backcountry endurance point-to-point race between Alta and
Brighton, is slated for March 20, 2004.
Working with ISMC, Black Diamond was able to secure World Cup status for the
singles event (as opposed to team events) due to the nature of the strenuous up
and down course. In order to qualify for ISMC ski mountaineering status, the
course skied by racers must meet certain criteria in terms of vertical gain and
descent. The fact that the PowderKeg covers terrain both on and off piste and is
a point-to-point style race best matched the criteria used in Europe where the
sport is more technically demanding.
Approximately forty European racers are expected to travel to the the Wasatch
to compete in the Black Diamond PowderKeg, which will be the culmination of
World Cup races in Morgins, Switzerland and Grau Roig, Andorra. The ISMC Ski
Mountaineering World Cup is one of three approved UIAA international
competitions, the other two being Competition Sport Climbing and Competition
Ice Climbing. Currently, the UIAA and the ISMC are petitioning the International
Olympic Committee for consideration as an Olympic event in the 2010 Games in
Vancouver. The decision on Olympic approval will likely be made following the
2006 Ski Mountaineering World Championships in Torino, Italy, which is also the
site of the 2006 Winter Olympic Games.
For more information go to www.bdel.com/powderkeg/index.html
Tua Italy Files for Bankruptcy
The parent company of Tua Skis ,Gestione Sport Alpini s.r.l., filed the Italian
version of Chapter 11 bankruptcy this fall. Details are sparse but the decision was
obviously based on financial difficulties of the parent company. The news has
been referred to as the end of an era by many industry folks as Tua was
instrumental in the revival of telemark and backcountry skiing in North America
and it is sad to think that Tua skis will no longer be available. Tua skis became
widely available in North America with the rise of Chouinard Equipment in the
mid and late 80’s. As of press time it is not known whether Tua is gone for good
or whether another company or investor could revive the name. To read more
about Tua’s history check out The End of an Era on page 17.
Backcountry Medic - Blisters
continued
heavier pair for shock- absorption and cushioning.
• Wear gaiters to keep dirt, gravel, and snow out of socks and
boots.
• Treat “hot spots” before they become a blister. Clean, dry, and
cover affected area with cloth, duct, or pipe tape and/or add a
ShearBan patch to footwear or socks. Painting skin with tincture of
Benzoin prior to taping may increase adhesion.
TREATMENT
Blister treatment is a subject that is often controversial among
outdoor people. There are many “patented” methods that work for
blister treatment. At the risk of adding to (versus eliminating) the
controversy, I’ve included my treatment recommendations below.
• If you are already back at home: consider leaving the blister
alone. Wear comfortable footwear that doesn’t irritate the area; it
should reabsorb and heal completely in 7-14 days.
• To complete a day hike/ski: drain the blister by nicking it with a
clean knife blade or scalpel; leave skin cover intact. Pad with
“donuts” of moleskin or mole foam to relieve pressure. Add a
ShearBan patch to footwear or socks. Alternatively, pass a needle
and thread through the blister; leave a small section of thread on
each side of the blister to act as a wick. Pad and protect as above.
• To continue a multiple day hike/ski: Remove skin over blister.
Wash with soap and clean water. Remove all foreign debris by
gentle scrubbing and/or by careful picking with a tweezers. Avoid
vigorous scrubbing. Pat or air dry. Keep the exposed skin moist to
promote collagen production and healing by covering the exposed
area with Second Skin or petroleum based ointment and gauze.
In addition to keeping the exposed blister moist, Second Skin adds
padding that often reduces pain. Secure in place with porous cloth
tape. Add a ShearBan patch to footwear or socks. Consider using
Tincture of Benzoin prior to taping.
Paul Nicolazzo is founder and director of the Wilderness Medicine Training
Center. View other articles by Paul on our website and visit
www.WildMedCenter.com for first aide courses and supplies.
OFF-PISTE SHOP DIRECTORY
ALASKA
Alaska Mountaineering & Hiking
2633 Spenard Blvd
Anchorage, AK 99503
www.alaskamountaineering.com
ALBERTA
Freewheel Jasper
618 Patricia st.
Jasper, AB T0E 1E0
www.freewheeljasper.com
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Rivers Oceans And Mountains
579 Baker Street
Nelson, BC
877.271.7626
Rip Curl Factory Outlet
1365A Dalhousie Drive
Kamloops, BC V2C 5P6
250.377.8899
Valhalla Pure Outfitters
615 Broughton St.
Victoria, BC V8W1C8
250.360.2181
CALIFORNIA
The Backcountry
2 stores - Tahoe City &Truckee
888.625.8444
www.thebackcountry.net
Bear Valley Cross Country
#1 Bear Valley Road
Bear Valley, CA 95223
www.bearvalleyxc.com
The Fifth Season
300 N Mt. Shasta Blvd
Mt. Shasta, CA 96067
www.thefifthseason.com
Mammoth Mountaineering Supply
3189 Main Street
Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
www.mammothgear.com
Marmot Mountain Works
3049 Adeline St.
Berkeley, CA 94703
www.marmotmountain.com
Mountain Sports
176 E 3rd Street
Chico, CA 95928
530.345.5011
Sierra Nevada Adventure Co./SNAC
2293 Hwy 4 - Arnold, CA
173 S. Washington St., Sonora, CA
www.snacattack.com
Rendezvous Sports
408 Main St.
Salmon, ID 83467
www.rendezvoussports.com
Mountain Tracks Ski and Board
Huckleberry Inn
Government Camp, OR 97028
www.mtntracks.com
Northwest Snowboards
2805 Bridgeport Way
Tacoma, WA 98466
www.nwsnowboards.com
Wolf Creek Wilderness
595 East Main Street
Grass Valley, CA 95945
www.wolfcreekwilderness.com
MAINE
Aardvark Outfitters
108 Fairbanks Road
Farmington, ME 04938
www.aardvarkoutfitters.com
Pine Mountain Sports
133 SW Century Drive
Bend, OR 97702
www.pinemountainsports.com
Olympic Mountaineering
140 W. Front St.
Port Angeles, WA 98362
360.452.0240
Redpoint Climber’s Supply
639 NW Franklin
Bend, OR 97701
www.goclimbing.com
Outdoor Research Store
2203 1st ave S.
Seattle, WA 98134
www.orgear.com
Storm Warning
112 Oak Street
www.stormwarning.biz
Pro Ski Service (2 shops)
8954 Aurora Ave N. - Seattle
108 W North Bend Way - North
Bend
proguiding.com
COLORADO
Backcountry Experience
1205 Camino Del Rio
Durango, CO 81301
www.bcexp.com
Troutfitter Sports Company
PO Box 969 313 Elk Ave
Crested Butte, CO 81224
www.nordicskiis.com
Pine Needle Mountaineering
835 Main St. #112
Durango, CO 81301
800.607.0364
Switchback Mountain Gear
468 Pagosa St.
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
970.264.2225
Trail Head
565 Sherman
Ridgway, CO 81432
970.626.5365
IDAHO
Alpine Designs Bike and Ski
312 Fifth Ave
SandPoint, ID 83864
208.263.9373
Backwoods Mountain Sports
711 N. Main St.
Ketchum, ID 83340
www.backwoodsmountainsports.com
Hyperspud Sports
907 S. First St. / 402 S. Main
Yakima, WA 98901 / Moscow, ID 83843
509.248.2093 / 208.883.1150
Idaho Mountain Touring
1310 Main Street
Boise, ID 83702
www.idahomountaintouring.com
Mahoosuc Sports
PO Box 70 Rte 26
Locke Mills, ME 04255
www.teleskis.com
MONTANA
Barrel Mountaineering
240 East Main
Bozeman, MT 59715
800.779.7364
www.barrelmountaineering.com
Rocky Mountain Outfitters
135 Main St
Kalispell, MT 59901
406.752.2446
The Trail Head
110 East Pine Street
Missoula, MT 59802
www.trailheadmontana.net
NEVADA
Reno Mountain Sports
155 E Moana Ln
Reno, NV 89502
www.renomountainsports.com
NEW MEXICO
Wild Mountain Outfitters
541 W. Cordova
Santa Fe, NM 87505
www.wildmountainoutfitters.com
OREGON
Doug Sports
101 Oak Street
www.dougsports.com
Mountain Shop
628 NE Broadway
Portland, OR 97232
www.mountainshop.net
WASHINGTON
Arlberg Sports Inc
25 N Wenatchee Ave
Wenatchee, WA 98801
Cascade Crags
2820 Rucker Ave
Everett, WA 98201
www.cascadecrags.com
Enumclaw Ski & Mountain Sports
240 Roosevelt E.
Enumclaw, WA 98022
www.snowways.com
Feathered Friends
119 Yale Ave N.
Seattle, WA 98109
www.featheredfriends.com
Marmot Mountain Works
827 Bellevue Way NE
Bellevue, WA 98004
www.marmotmountain.com
Mountain Goat Outfitters
915 W. Broadway
Spokane, WA 99201
www.mountaingoatoutfitters.com
Mountain High Sports
105 E. 4th
Ellensberg, WA 98926
509.925.4626
Second Ascent
5209 Ballard Avenue NW
Seattle, WA 98107
www.secondascent.com
Winthrop Mountain Sports
257 Riverside Ave
Winthrop, WA 98862
www.winthropmountainsports.com
WEST VIRGINIA
White Grass Touring Center
Canaan Valley, WV 26260
www.whitegrass.com
WYOMING
Skinny Skis
65 W. Deloney
Jackson, WY 83001
www.skinnyskis.com
UTAH
Wasatch Mountain Touring
702 E. 100 S.
SLC, UT 84102
www.wasatchtouring.com
Wild Rose
702 Third Ave
SLC, UT 84108
The Trailhead
117 North Main
Logan UT 84321
435.753.1541
List your shop in our Directory! Call or e-mail for details 509.999.2208 [email protected]
AVALANCHE / WEATHER RESOURCES
General
www.avalanche.org
www.avalanche.ca
www.fsavalanche.org
nimbo.wrh.noaa.gov
www.winterwildlands.com
www.wildwilderness.org
Alaska
Vancouver 604-290-9333
Western Canada 800-667-1105
Rockies 403-243-7253 x7669
Banff 403-762-1460
Colorado
www.geosurvey.state.co.us/avalanche
Boulder 303-275-5360
Summit Cty 970-668-0600
www.fs.fed.us/r10/chugach/glacier/snow.html Southern CO 970-247-8187
http://www.avalanche.org/~seaac/
Durango - 970-247-8187
California
Fort Collins - 970-482-0457
www.r5.fs.fed.us/tahoe/avalanche
Vail - 970-827-5687
www.shastaavalanche.org
Aspen - 970-920-1664
Mt. Shasta 530-926-9613
CO Springs 719-520-0020
Tahoe 530-587-2158
Idaho
Mammoth/Bishop 760-924-5500
www.avalanche.org/~svavctr
Canada
Sun Valley 208-622-8027
www.weatheroffice.com
Panhandle National Forest
www.fs.fed.us/ipnf/visit/conditions/backcountry/index.html
208-765-7323, 208-752-1221
Payette - 208-634-0409
www.fs.fed.us/r4/payette/main.html
Montana
www.mtavalanche.com
www.glacieravalanche.org
www.fs.fed.us/r1/lolo/avalanche/advisory.htm
NW MT -406-257-8402 - 800-526-5329
Bozeman-406-587-6981
Cook City-406-838-2259
New Hampshire
www.tuckerman.org
Oregon
www.nwac.noaa.gov
Southern WA / Mt. Hood
503-808-2400
Utah
Europe
www.avalanche.org/~uac www.lawine.org
Tri-Canyon 801-364-1581
Alta - 801-742-0830
New Zealand
Park City - 435-658-5512
www.avalanche.net.nz
Provo - 801-378-4333
Ogden - 801-626-8600
Logan - 435-797-4146
LaSal - 800-648-7433
Washington
www.nwac.noaa.gov
www.avalanchenw.org
Cascades 206-526-6677
Olympics 206-526-6677
Wyoming
www.jhavalanche.org
Bridger-Teton - 307-733-2664

Now - Off

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