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Why ski touring makes me happy

by Katharina aka @kat_bergseensucht / LaMunt Crew Member

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6 min read

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Finally, the time has come. There's enough snow. It's time to go ski touring!

Forests covered in a thick, glittering blanket of snow. The peaceful silence. Ski touring fills my heart with such joy.

But when planning a ski tour, there are certain aspects that should be considered so that the hearts of others, namely animals, don’t end up racing unnecessarily. Avoid heading out at dusk, or when it’s a full moon, or moving through the fringes of the forest.

Try to keep the volume down and keep your distance. Observe any signs, restricted areas/ wildlife sanctuaries or feeding areas. Even if it is difficult and, to be honest, not always possible when planning a winter tour, try to leave unspoilt valleys and slopes wild and unspoilt, only using new routes in emergency situations. There’s a whole article on the subject in my blog bergseensucht.com (in German) -> link

Katharina @kat_bergseensucht

Time for myself – #MountainMeTime in winter

I relish every moment when I’m ski touring. Breathing in the crisp air, keeping my eyes focused on the snow. Sweat beading on my forehead when the gradient gets steeper. Only the sound of my skins sliding on the snow and the beating of my heart.

As a proud member of the LaMunt Crew, I don't have to worry about the cold. Having the right gear is key for me: what I wear has to be functional and be up to handling any situation. Without making me feel constrained. And if I can look stylish at the same time, then I'm happy.... It’s instantly clear that LaMunt’s tagline “by women for women” is not just some marketing blurb, but exactly that – made for women by women. And you can tell. It’s in all the little details and useful functionality that make the collection so unique.

And just like having the right layering system for ski touring, the crew that you head into the backcountry with also has to fit. In an emergency, I have to be able to rely on my fellow team members knowing about rescue techniques, first aid and avalanches, and having all the necessary equipment with them.

Solo ski touring? Why not?

There’s nothing stopping you, and it’s something I enjoy. After all, many ski resorts offer well signposted (and secured) routes. Or I might opt to skin through one of the woodland trails near the pistes, then ski down into the ski area. It’s a good option when avalanche danger levels are high. And perfect as a way to train or for a bonus reward after a hard day's work – followed by a stop at a mountain hut of course! For me, it’s hard to beat.

Ski touring packing list:

In my backpack I pack…

  • Avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel (except when ski touring in the resort sidecountry)
  • First aid kit
  • Bivy bag
  • Headlamp
  • Local map
  • Helmet and goggles
  • Insulated mobile phone bag with RECCO system
  • Ski crampons (depending on the tour)
  • Sun cream and lip protection
  • Hot drink (preferably ginger tea with a little bit of honey) or just water if it’s a shorter tour with hut stop options
  • Energy bars, biscuits, fruit and/or bread (depending on the tour)
  • Second pair of gloves/ mitts for the descent
  • Spare headband or hat
  • Spare baselayer (e.g. Alice Cashmere Longsleeve Baselayer Tee)
  • Shell jacket (e.g. Giada 3L Waterproof Jacket)
  • Warm, packable insulating jacket
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