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Imagine it for a moment: a clear winter morning, the mountains calling you, and everyone else is rushing to the lifts to start their skiing day, while you are sliding your skis on, putting on your climbing skins then gradually starting your climb—one step glide at a time. But what is skinning up a mountain, and what has led it to become one of the gratifying ways of experiencing the slopes?
Skinning is not just an uphill technique: it is a complete workout for the whole body, a moving meditation, and an avenue to virgin powder stashes with no snow rider. Demystifying the concept of skiing uphill to ski downhill, this text will lead you through the essential steps.
The Art of Skinning: More Than Just Uphill Walking
Before you picture people laboriously working their way up on foot, let’s get one thing straight, what is skinning anyway? Skinning is also known as alpine touring or uphill and is the ski (or split board, rather, for the snowboarders) ascendancy of snowy slopes using the special adhesive material to move uphill rather than to slide backward back down snowy hills.
Skinning is all about endurance, proper technique, and a bit of patience rather than gravity doing the work, as in downhill skiing. The reward for reaching the summit is a magical downhill ski run in virgin snow.
Why Do People Skin Up a Mountain?
Ski resorts have chairlifts, gondolas, and even snowcats—so why would anyone opt for the slow grind of skinning up a mountain? The answer lies in these four key benefits:
1. A Workout Like No Other
Forget the treadmill. Skinning up a mountain is a low-impact, high-intensity cardiovascular workout that builds endurance, strengthens leg muscles, and burns a serious number of calories. Plus, the scenic views beat any gym environment.
2. Escape the Crowds
Doesn’t it ever feel like we’re stuck in ski traffic? Ski touring is the place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the packed resort ski slopes and, therefore, go skiing in the pristine, untrammeled landscape: no need to hurry in line for the uplifting chair!
3. Access to Pristine Powder
While lift-accessed terrain gets tracked out quickly, skinning up a mountain gives you access to untouched powder fields—if you’re willing to earn them.
4. A Gateway to Backcountry Skiing
A lot of ski tourers find their way to the high country, particularly when they have already used skins through to higher elevations to ski the backcountry. One should not forget to bring anti-avalanche gear and training on how it is to be used.
The Essential Gear for Skinning Up a Mountain
To truly master what is skinning up a mountain, you need the right equipment. This isn’t a sport where you can just throw on any skis and start climbing.
1. Skis, Bindings & Boots
- Alpine Touring Skis – They are lighter than ordinary skis, and designed for uphill efficiency.
- Touring Bindings – They are in free-heel mode during climbing and locked mode while skiing down.
- Ski Boots, Walk Mode boots – They deliver some flexibility for the climb and stability for the descent.
Snowboarders use a split board, which separates into two ski-like pieces for climbing and reconnects for the downhill ride.
2. Climbing Skins
- These specialized strips of fabric grip the snow, preventing backward sliding.
- They attach to the ski base with adhesive and a tail clip.
- Proper sizing and maintenance are crucial for performance.
3. Adjustable Ski Poles
- Helpful for balance and efficiency on steep inclines.
- Longer poles are ideal for climbing; shorter ones work better for skiing down.
4. Layered Clothing for Changing Conditions
Since skinning up a mountain generates heat, wearing moisture-wicking layers is key. You’ll also need a warm insulated jacket for when you stop or descend.
Mastering the Technique of Skinning Up a Mountain
If you think skinning is just walking uphill with skis, think again. Proper technique is crucial to avoid early fatigue.
1. Glide, Don’t Stomp
Instead of lifting your skis with each step, keep them in contact with the snow and glide forward. This conserves energy and makes skin smoother.
2. Find Your Rhythm
Moving too fast will leave you exhausted. A steady pace with controlled breathing is the secret to skinning up a mountain efficiently.
3. Use Kick Turns for Steep Terrain
When faced with a steep incline, a kick turn helps change direction efficiently. The goal is to pivot smoothly, not create an unintentional snowboarding crash course.
4. Adjust Heel Risers for Comfort
Heel risers (small platforms in your bindings) help reduce calf strain on steep climbs. Engage them when the incline increases for a more natural stride.
The Dos and Don’ts of Skinning Etiquette
Even in the wilderness, there are rules:
- Follow designated uphill routes at ski resorts.
- Yield to downhill skiers—they’re moving fast and expect a clear path.
- Never hike in the skin track (your boots will ruin the path for others).
- Be visible, especially at night—wear reflective gear or a headlamp.
Where to Try Skinning for the First Time
Many ski resorts now offer skinning routes following predetermined forest trails. As an example, apartments in Aspen Co. provide great beginner routes. The town has all the resources for beginners, whether they are renting gear or booking a guide.
When talking about Aspen, you might want to consider these beautiful Aspen apartments for luxurious ski accommodations after a long day of climbing and skiing, because every skier deserves to relax in style.
Is Skinning Up a Mountain for You?
If you enjoy skiing, love a challenge, and don’t mind working for your turns, skinning up a mountain might just become your new favorite winter sport. It combines fitness, adventure, and untouched terrain in a way that no lift-served experience can match.
So next time you see someone skinning uphill while you ride the chairlift, don’t assume they’ve lost a bet—chances are, they’ve discovered something worth earning. Maybe it’s time for you to find out, too.