backcountry_misadventure_cover_skinner

Backcountry Misadventure: Embracing “Bad” Weather

Before the ski season began I had grand ideas of the backcountry trips I would take here in the northeast; the places I would visit, people I would bring along, the routes we would explore, etc. However, as the season unfolded each plan faded along with the changing weather patterns. From planned tours around Mount Washington, the Presidential Range, Camel’s …

avalanche-forcecasting-buried-layer-of-Facets-Persistant-slab

Avalanche Forecasting 101

Do you want to go on a hut trip to the remote backcountry of British Columbia with your buddies? How about an expedition to ski from the summit of Denali? If so, you’ll need to be your own avalanche forecaster. And if that sounds like work, it’s because it is. But don’t let this scare you. With practice and persistence …

Scholarship for Women in the Backcountry

Wandering Trails Scholarship for Women in the Backcountry

Rather than adding a new pair of skis to her own collection, Brooke Jackson is seeking to help a fellow female-identifying individual overcome any financial hurdles that may be preventing them from advancing in their backcountry journey. Brooke is a professional adventure photojournalist and outdoor skills instructor who is passionate about sharing her backcountry stoke. Beginning her fourth season as …

Voile-ski-review-contest

Voile Ski and Splitboard Review Contest

Now’s your chance to win a pair of Voile skis or a Voile splitboard! Submit a review of any current Voile brand product that you’ve personally experienced. Any reviews of Voile brand product submitted on www.voile.com before 11:59pm MST January 31, 2020 may be considered as an entry. Method of Selection for Contest Winner: A team of current Voile employees …

climate change and skiing 1

Climate Change and Skiing Across the Wrangells

For those of us who spend our lives in the mountains, it’s mandatory to accept that nothing is given. A wide variety of factors can shut down a mission: weather, fitness, conditions, and preparedness all come heavily into play. But when 18 Alaskans set out in late March for the 2019 Alaska Mountain Wilderness Ski Classic, I don’t think it …

skis made in utah press

Backcountry Equipment Made in Utah, USA

Local Since 1980 Voile skis are made in Utah and have been since day one. We started making backcountry equipment in 1980 right here in Salt Lake City with the Wasatch Mountains as our backdrop and R&D field. In a highly globalized production world, many companies outsource manufacturing overseas for cheap labor. The 98 percent of Voile products are made …

Women's Backcountry Skis and Splitboards

Voile Women’s Backcountry Skis and Splitboards

In an industry historically dominated by men, female skiers worldwide have been making strides to level the playfield. There have always been badass lady shredders, but their accomplishment sometimes drown in a sea of ski-bro testosterone. Not only are there some serious female rippers pioneering mountaineering ascents and big mountain lines, but the influence they bring to the industry is …

Voile Straps Giveaway! Photo credit: Montanus

Voile Straps Giveaway

Feeling lucky? Now is your chance to win the Voile Straps Giveaway! Voile Straps were invented more than THREE DECADES AGO as a unique way to bind skis together. They have since evolved into an incredible way to secure, bundle, and repair almost anything on the go. You’ll never tire of how simple, compact, durable, and strong Voile Straps are. We are …

Avalanche Shovel Giveaway

Our avalanche shovel collections are engineered for maximum strength, ease of assembly, and ergonomic efficiency. They are the industry standard among ski patrollers, mountain guides, avalanche forecasters, and even some military groups. Now’s your chance to win your choice of the Voile Hoback Avalanche Shovel series! To enter:  Follow @voilemfg and @voilestraps Like this post & tag 3 of your …

Map and Compass Backcountry Basics

Escaping the crowds and adventuring into the depths of the backcountry beholds countless rewards during all seasons. Whether you’re searching for a choice basecamp, untouched lines, or new routes with unique objectives, the backcountry is all about getting out and getting the f*** away. To do so, carrying a map and compass is necessary for backcountry explorers. But it’s not …