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Ski Touring & Freeski

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Off-piste, everyone carries a transceiver, shovel and probe; RECCO does not replace them.

Guide

Ski Touring & Freeski

For ski touring you need touring skis with climbing skins, boots with a walk mode and thin layers you can add to. Off-piste, every member of the group also carries an avalanche transceiver, a shovel and a probe.

Key points

  • Touring skis with skins, boots with walk mode, thin layers.
  • Off-piste, everyone carries transceiver, shovel and probe.
  • RECCO and airbags don't replace transceiver, shovel, probe.

Which equipment for which tour?

UseChoiceLimit
Touring and freeski jackets and trousers, mid-layers, insulated jackets, base layers, glovesChoiceClothingLimitA softshell is water-repellent, not waterproof
Touring boots, freeride boots and hybridsChoiceSki bootsLimitVery light boots demand strong skiing
Touring skis, bindings, skins, packs, helmets, poles, ski crampons, avalanche safety kitChoiceGearLimitSafety kit only helps if you practise the search
Skin wax, proofing, cleaner, glue, ski waxChoiceWax & careLimitContour suggests re-proofing every 3 to 4 tours

What to check before you buy

QuestionIn shortWhy
What counts as avalanche safety kit?In shortThree items eachWhyA three-antenna transceiver, a metal shovel and a probe of at least 240 cm, advises the Austrian Alpine Club.
Softshell or hardshell for touring?In shortSoftshell to climbWhyIn dry weather a softshell: windproof, water-repellent and more breathable on the climb. In snowfall and storms you need a waterproof hardshell.
How wide should a touring ski be?In short84–89 mm all-roundWhyThe German Alpine Club (DAV) puts all-round touring skis at 84 to 89 mm underfoot. Skis up to 85 mm save weight on long climbs.
What makes a good touring boot?In short60° cuff rotationWhyA cuff that moves in walk mode: the DAV advises at least 60 degrees of rotation. Pin bindings need boots with tech inserts, the fittings the pins lock into.

Frequently asked questions

May I climb any piste?

No. Follow the resort’s approved uphill routes, opening times and closures.

Is equipment alone enough?

No. The SLF combines equipment with planning, assessment of conditions and practised companion rescue.

Does RECCO replace a transceiver?

No. RECCO describes its reflector as additional equipment for organised rescue, not a replacement for companion rescue.

What does an avalanche airbag do?

The SLF says it can reduce burial depth. It is additional equipment and does not replace training or the rest of the emergency set.

Last updated: October 2026

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