The Gear to Get You Started Ski Mountaineering
With skimo gear, fit and skill level are more important than light and fast.
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Skimo might save you a few bucks on lift tickets, but the gear (called “AT” for “alpine touring”) can get pricey. And while weight is important, if you’re just getting started and have no plans to race, it’s better to find gear that fits well and matches your skill level than to buy the lightest, fastest setup. These seven products will you get a skimo setup that’s great for beginners and will last you several seasons.
Components of a Beginning Women’s Skimo Setup
Smith Allure Helmet MIPS | $150
This lightweight (meaning less weight as you skin uphill) brain bucket has a streamlined, durable, and stylish design and comes equipped with MIPS Brain Protection System.
Black Diamond Traverse Ski Poles | $90
Durable, adjustable ski poles are essential for skinning uphill, skiing downhill, even on snowshoe jaunts, and these are the gold standard.
Dynafit Radical ST (2020) Touring Binding | $500
According to Paul at Cripple Creek Backcountry, “This is a tried and true, all-purpose touring binding that is user friendly and has all the features you need to get you up and down the mountain.”
Dynafit Beast 98 W Alpine Touring Ski | $650
This versatile and solid ski excels on firm front side snow and in deep backcountry conditions, complete with a quick attachment notch to accommodate Dynafit skins.
Scarpa Gea RS Women’s Touring Boot | $799
Light enough to move efficiently on the way up while also delivering a secure downhill ride, this boot has women’s-specific liner for a dialed fit.
Deuter Freerider Pro 28 SL Snow Pack | $160
This pack is a winter wonder: women’s-specific fit, ability to carry skis or board, helmet, snow-resistant fabric, spot for a probe and shovel, and a main compartment that opens completely via the back panel.
Dynafit Beast 108 Speedskins | $220
Skins are what give you traction as you defy gravity on your way uphill, and these have a quick fit attachment that works with the Dynafit Beast 98, above.