Ski touring skis work by using special bindings that allow skiers to switch between modes for uphill travel and downhill skiing, combined with temporary climbing skins for traction during ascents.
Ski touring, also known as Alpine Touring (AT) or randonnée, requires equipment that facilitates travel both up and down snow-covered slopes outside of traditional ski resorts. The core functionality relies on two key components: specialized bindings and climbing skins.
Key Components
- Special Bindings: Unlike standard alpine bindings that permanently fix the heel, ski touring bindings are designed with a unique feature. As stated in the reference, you "use special bindings that can switch between free-heel and fixed-heel modes."
- Climbing Skins: These are temporary attachments that adhere to the base of the skis for ascending. The reference mentions that "climbing skins provide traction" during the ascent.
How They Work: Ascent (Going Up)
During the uphill portion of a ski tour, the equipment is configured for efficient climbing:
- Bindings in Free-Heel Mode: The special touring bindings are set to a mode where the heel is unlocked. This allows the skier to lift their heel off the ski with each step, mimicking a walking motion.
- Climbing Skins Applied: Strips of material, historically animal hide but now typically synthetic fabrics like nylon or mohair, are attached to the base of the skis. The fibers on the skin are oriented to glide smoothly forward while providing resistance against backward slipping.
- Ascent Technique: With unlocked heels and skins providing grip, skiers shuffle or "skin" their way up the slope. The free-heel binding allows for a natural stride, conserving energy.
How They Work: Descent (Going Down)
Once the summit or turning point is reached, the equipment is transitioned for downhill skiing:
- Bindings in Fixed-Heel Mode: The special touring bindings are switched back to a mode where the heel is locked securely into the binding. This functions like a standard alpine binding, providing the necessary control for turning and stability while skiing downhill.
- Climbing Skins Removed: The climbing skins are peeled off the base of the skis and typically stored in a pack.
- Downhill Skiing: With heels locked and skins removed, the skis are ready to be skied downhill, similar to resort skiing but often in ungroomed conditions.
In essence, ski touring skis work by providing the flexibility to transition between an efficient uphill travel mode (free-heel, skins) and a secure downhill skiing mode (fixed-heel, no skins), thanks primarily to the specialized bindings and the use of climbing skins.
