Skitourengehen

Skitourengehen, or ski touring, is a winter sport that combines uphill travel in mountainous terrain with a ski descent. Participants move uphill with climbing skins on touring skis and use bindings that allow the heel to rise, then switch to a downhill stance for the descent. The activity often takes place in backcountry areas beyond marked pistes, where snow conditions and avalanche risk require judgment and preparation.

Equipment commonly used includes touring skis or splitboards, bindings suitable for climbing with a free heel (alpine touring or tech bindings), climbing skins, compatible boots, and lightweight poles. Clothing is layered and weatherproof to cope with changing conditions. Safety gear such as an avalanche beacon (transceiver), shovel, and probe is routinely carried, and many skiers wear a helmet. In technical terrain or larger tours, some participants use additional gear such as a rope or harness.

Technique and planning involve skinning uphill on varied grades, performing kick turns on steeper sections, and transitioning to downhill mode with or without removing skins at the ascent’s end. Route planning requires assessing avalanche terrain, weather, and daylight, and is often done with maps, GPS, or mobile apps. The sport emphasizes self-sufficiency, navigation, and decision-making in alpine environments.

Safety and training are central to the activity. Courses offered by alpine clubs or guiding services teach avalanche awareness, rescue techniques, and terrain assessment. Travelling with a partner, checking forecasts, and carrying proper rescue gear are standard practices. Skitourengehen is practiced in many mountainous regions, particularly the Alps, and remains subject to seasonal snow conditions and avalanche risk.