Modern plastic shell touring boots are best for AT bindings.

Ski touring boots differ in a number of ways from traditional ski boots.

1. A flexible range of motion in “walk mode”. This makes them much easier to ascend in.

2. Specialised binding mounts for compatibility with tech bindings.

3. Overall much lighter in weight, while quite stiff in ski mode.

Choose "all mountain" skis, or skis designed for specifically touring. A "mid-fat" ski that measures 80-90 mm wide underfoot gives good flotation in powder and reasonable edging on hard snow. Bring ski crampons.

There are 2 main binding types, the more traditional (and mechanical) Frame bindings, and Tech bindings (or ”pin” bindings).

Tech bindings require compatible boots but are by far the most popular bindings today.

Daimir, Dynafit, Marker, and Tyrolia all produce good touring bindings. Your bindings should include ski brakes and ski crampons.

Climbing skins are specialized fabric that attaches to the bottom of your skis, allowing you to travel uphill and ascend slopes of up to 30-40 degrees.

Your skins must be cut to fit the shape of the ski - trimmed in about 2mm from each edge.

Voile make good split boards, but most snowboarders use a standard board with soft boots and lightweight snow shoes.

Telemark skiers are welcome on Alpine Guides trips, but you need to bring your own equipment. Due to the variable NZ snowpack, we recommend that telemark skiers are very competent. If possible, try to source ‘ski crampons’ for telemark gear.

We do not rent touring gear. If your winter trip requires ski/snowboard gear, you should hire your rig prior to arrival.

Recommended Gear Hire Stores

Wanaka - MT Outdoors

Queenstown - Small Planet

Christchurch:

Gnomes Alpine Sports

McEwings

Splitn2.com (splitboard only)