SKINNING TECHNIQUE

Online resources to help you learn more about backcountry travel

Skinning Basics

Here are some techniques to make your tour more fun and less work. Everything from how to set your heel lifters to how to make efficient kick turns. Good climbing technique also makes life easier for those following your skin track.

Using Heel Lifters

When and how to use your heel lifters.

The Rest Step

Conserving energy on the hike up.

Kick Turn Basics I

Setting an efficient kick turn.

Kick turn basics II

Skin track with rounded or AVA turns.

Kick Turn BASICS III

Conserving energy on the hike up.

Skinning & Riding Transitions

Quick and efficient transitions are essential to speed and safety in the mountains. Here are a few tips to help you speed up those transitions as much as possible.

Ski Transitions

American Mountain Guide Association tips on the quickest, most efficient transitions.

Splitboard Transitions

Anticipation, organization, and simplification.

SPLITBOARDING

Splitboarding comes with its own set of techniques and challenges. If you’re new to the sport and have some questions, here are some videos to get you started.

General Splitboard Touring Technique

UIAGM Splitboard guide on efficient splitboard skinning techniques.

Skimo racing

Ski randonee, skimo, whatever you want to call it, is one of the fastest growing segments of ski competition. Here are some basics and a look into this super-light and fast world of racing.

SKIMO Race Basics

This video gives an overview of the basic gear and SkiMo techniques.

Jackson Hole Race

Highlights from SkiMo at Jackson Hole.

Mondole Ski Alp 2016

Highlights from this ISMF Ski Mountaineering World Cup race.

Pierra Menta 2016

Highlights from one of the world’s biggest ski mountaineering race.

RELATED BACKCOUNTRY TOPICS

Climbing Skin Trimming Guides

Avalanche Safety Info & Videos

Frequently Asked Questions