Fjallaskíði

Fjallaskíði, also known as ski touring or backcountry skiing, is a form of skiing that involves traveling through snow-covered mountainous terrain on skis. Unlike downhill skiing, which is typically done at resorts with lifts, fjallaskíði involves ascending mountains using specialized equipment and then descending on untracked snow. This activity combines elements of hiking, mountaineering, and skiing.

The essential equipment for fjallaskíði includes touring skis, which are lighter than alpine skis and often have a removable binding mechanism that allows the heel to lift for climbing. Climbing skins, made of a synthetic material with a directional pile, are attached to the base of the skis to provide traction during ascents. Ski boots used for touring are also designed to be lighter and more flexible for walking. Poles are typically longer and adjustable.

The ascent phase of fjallaskíði utilizes the climbing skins to allow skiers to move uphill. This can be done on moderate slopes or steep ascents, often requiring specific techniques to navigate the terrain efficiently. Once the desired elevation is reached, the climbing skins are removed, and the bindings are locked into a downhill skiing configuration. The descent then takes place on natural snow, which can range from powder to variable conditions depending on the location and weather.

Fjallaskíði offers a unique experience of exploring remote and pristine winter landscapes, often far from crowded ski resorts. It requires a good level of physical fitness, navigation skills, and avalanche awareness, as backcountry terrain carries inherent risks. Safety is paramount, and participants often carry avalanche safety equipment such as transceivers, probes, and shovels, along with knowledge of how to use them.