Fatigue, cold and uncertain weather are the hallmarks of a typical ski mountaineering day. Here’s what to bring to avoid being caught off guard!
When the snow returns to cover the mountains, the first skialp enthusiasts inevitably return to the slopes and trails. The thrill of a new season, however, should not make us forget the importance of good equipment: skialp is a high-intensity sport, with moments of maximum effort mixed with softer phases of relaxation. For this reason, it is essential to be prepared and to organize your backpack and clothing to be ready for all weather and fatigue conditions.
The skialper days starts early in the morning, at low temperature, often when the sun is just rose, ed it is destinated to swing constantly between different temperatures and weather conditions. To stay warm, so, the watchword is… layering.
It starts with the base layer, which is fundamental both to insulate and, above all, to dry the sweat during the most strenuous moments. A key role here is played by underwear, preferably in a natural, warm fabric such as merino wool, which allows the body to breathe but also provides warmth. There is a wide choice of thermal t-shirts, technical leggings and socks in merino wool that can provide a first and significant layer of protection. In this field Rewoolution offers, for both men and women, a wide range of products made from high quality merino wool materials.
Once you have put on the first layer, you move on to the intermediate and outer layers, which are assigned with the task of insulating from the cold and protecting from wind and humidity: the structure of many of the intermediate garments is made to preserve the heat inside the body, without sacrificing breathability, while the outer shell must be light and waterproof. The outer shell must be light and waterproof. All you need to do now is choose a softshell garment and a waterproof jacket to be able to tackle the climb without any problems. Extra tip: a jacket could be useful to wear on the descent or on arrival during a well-deserved stop at the refuge.
The same applies to legs, but there must be a greater focus on mobility: the underwear in the base layer must be close-fitting and covering, and the other two upper layers must not only provide insulation from the cold and weather, but also excellent mobility. For this reason, we recommend looking as far as possible for the perfect combination, so that the legs can move freely, whether the activity requires more effort or is less intense.
Never forget accessories. A merino wool hat, thermal socks, neck warmers and a good pair of ski gloves will be your best allies against the cold and sudden bad weather and will make all the difference for a flawless ski run. If the day is sunny, don’t forget to pack a pair of goggles and sunscreen in your backpack so that you can enjoy the ascent and admire the view of the mountain without the risk of burning your skin (the sun burns even in cold weather!).
Finally, it is very important to choose the right size of the backpack: it should not be too large and heavy to limit you, but neither should it be so small that it cannot hold even the most essential equipment. It is essential, in choices like this one, to be clear about the length and type of route, as well as the weather forecast, because these are factors that can greatly influence the preparation of your equipment.
Therefore, what should never be missing? Certainly, plenty of water, perhaps enriched with mineral salts, to stay hydrated during the journey, a change of underwear and base layer that could get wet during the day, the very important Arva safety kit, which should always be tested before departure, shovel and probe and a first aid kit with the essentials to intervene in case of minor injuries. And of course, a good lunch and a thermos of coffee to enjoy with friends once you reach the top, where there are often no refuge or bars.
So, boots and skis on your feet, poles in hand and you are ready to tackle any trail!
