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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
WINTER IS COMING Shorter days, lingering morning frost, and snow blankets the mountains- winter is near. Skiers and snowboarders itch to get back in their bindings. For lovers of mountain exploration, this season of anticipation is nostalgic and exciting. It is time for reflection on past trips and planning of future trips. Time for pulling out old gear and reminiscing …
Q: What are your earliest memories of backcountry travel? It really started because of my Dad’s love for skiing. He started me at a young age of two, and before then would ski with me in a backpack. I switched over to snowboarding when I was twelve and never looked back. They were the cool kids back then – remember; …
Before this past October, I had never actually skied with Beau Fredlund. There were many times we would say hi and agree to find time to get out together. Unfortunately, the timing never seemed to work out. The closest we had come to making turns together was teaching an avalanche awareness course. But alas, one ski-run on the ungroomed blue …
There is something magical about the first backcountry hut trip of the season. The glistening tranquil forests with boughs laden, the fragrance of pine, and pixie dust floating down and sparkling in beams of light. It’s the hiss of skis gliding through snow, the tinkle of shattered hoar frost, and the cold nip to the hands and feet that spills …
