Ski touring packs with bindings and skins are designed to offer a complete and practical solution for skiers wishing to venture off-piste. There are several types of packs to suit different needs and skill levels. Beginner packs generally include wider, more stable skis, simple bindings and easy-to-use skins. For intermediate skiers, packs include lighter, more technical skis, offering a good balance between climbing and descending. Packs for experts, meanwhile, feature very light skis, technical bindings and high-performance skins to tackle the most demanding terrain and fast ascents.
The choice of a ski touring pack should be based on several important criteria to guarantee an optimal experience. First, consider the type of skis included in the pack. Wider skis offer better flotation in powder, while narrower skis are lighter and more efficient when climbing. Next, the bindings must be adapted to your level and skiing style. Touring bindings with inserts (tech bindings) are light and efficient for ascents, while frame bindings offer greater stability on descents. Skins are essential for ascents, and should be chosen for their grip and glide. Synthetic skins are durable and offer good grip, while mohair skins glide better but are less durable.
It's essential to choose a ski touring pack suited to your skill level and objectives. For beginners, a pack with stable skis, easy-to-use bindings and versatile skins is recommended. This allows you to acquire basic skills in complete safety. Intermediate skiers, looking to improve their climbing and descending performance, will benefit from lighter, more responsive skis, technical bindings and skins offering a good compromise between grip and glide. For expert skiers, who tackle complex alpine terrain and varied conditions, an ultra-light pack with high-performance skis, bindings with latest-generation inserts and mohair skins is ideal. In short, your choice should reflect your experience, ambitions and conditions to maximize your efficiency and enjoyment of ski touring.