Skialos

Skialos is a term sometimes used to refer to individuals who practice skimo, also known as ski mountaineering. Ski mountaineering involves ascending and descending mountains on skis, often off-piste and in challenging alpine conditions. This sport combines elements of skiing, climbing, and endurance. Skialos participants typically use specialized lightweight touring skis, bindings, and boots that allow for efficient uphill travel with climbing skins. They also carry essential safety equipment such as avalanche transceivers, probes, and shovels.

The practice of skialos can range from recreational excursions in accessible mountain areas to highly competitive races. Competitive ski mountaineering often includes demanding ascents and descents, sometimes requiring the use of crampons and ice axes for steeper sections. Athletes in these events focus on speed, efficiency, and technical skill across diverse terrain. While the term "skialos" is not universally recognized and may be more informal, it broadly describes those engaged in this demanding winter sport. The allure of skialos lies in the combination of physical challenge, the beauty of alpine environments, and the self-reliance required for mountain travel.