August 2011 archive

Testimonial: Aetrex Footbeds

Like skinning, today’s run was a pleasant reminder of how much I love trail running. It’s a big part of why I’m rather inclined to like the earning part of backcountry skiing, for that steady state aerobically induced runners high. There was a time, not so far back, when both activities were in jeopardy. I …

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Review: Rottefella’s NTN Freeride

It’s been five years now that NTN has been available – four if you only count the retail seasons. In that time it has managed to develop a small but enthusiastic band of converts that is growing steadily. When first introduced to the media in January 2007, it was a rather impressive system. Though a …

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Review: BD introduces O1 telemark binding

This is a rerun of an article originally published on Couloir Online 22dec05 (Revised 20apr06). It is reposted here as a historical reference and basis of comparison for future revisions to the O1. Couloir began prodding telemark binding manufacturers back in 2001 to “expand their horizons from merely binding the boot to the ski, to …

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Skin Track Angles – A Classic Debate

It’s been quite awhile since first publishing the classic debate on what is the best angle of attack to take when skinning up a mountain. A lot of that comes down to terrain and personal preferences, but everyone I know tends to prefer either a low or high angle skin track. The basic tenets of …

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Skinning: Keeper Steeper

Might I be so bold as to suggest that the esteemed skier from Truckee, Mr. Dostie, is suffering from a cranial/rectal impaction when it comes to appreciating the fine art of steep skinning? Not only is steep skinning faster and more efficient, it is The Way. The Chosen Path. The Trail to Enlightenment as well …

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Skinning: Tracks of the Tortoise

Taking the low road has several advantages. It is unquestionably more efficient…is consistently safer, arguably more aesthetic and, for those still intent on a challenge, is more difficult to achieve with purity…

Outdoor Retailer Summer 11 tele report

While there weren’t any official announcements of new ski specific products at the recent Outdoor Retailer summer show, the rumor mill wasn’t exactly silent either. There wasn’t a peep about anything from the locked heel crowd, but I wasn’t seeking it out that much either. Once you lock the heel there’s little to discuss or …

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