October 2022

For some, training zones and training plans and documenting those efforts as they prep for backcountry skiing is tedium. Yeah, it’ll get you fit, but the good doctor up in Anchorage (Alex Lee) takes his own fitness path to be better than average. And still, some who have followed him up the skintrack, yo-yoing all day, would say he’s way-way better than average too. Here’s his advice.

Set your sites and the scales on a svelte number, 88mm and 1150g to be precise: The Dynastar Vertical 88 delivers a lightweight ski with notable dampness. IFMGA guide Rob Coppolillo reviews the Vertical 88 and helps us discern where and when it’s best suited.

The Know Before You Go program, otherwise known as KBYG, receives an update for 2022 with an emphasis on motivating backcountry users to develop their avalanche awareness and motivate them to pursue more knowledge and experience.

Here are 16 tips, count them up, to help those new to backcountry riding/touring and making important decisons, feel more at home in the mountains.

ZipFit is known for durable and great fitting liners. We give the GFT Touring Liner a long look, and we like what we see. With 30 days in the liner, there’s little wear. The liner’s weight at 577g in a 28/28.5 might make you cringe — maybe it shouldn’t, as the upsides are considerable.

In a follow up interview after Zahan’s recent Totally Deep podcast episode, we explore the roots of his training methodology and how to prepare the body and mind for dynamic ski terrain.