And thats before I consider booking the heli boarding, which as Bubbs will tell you may some 10 years later still be the reason for his current financially inclement position!You're not wrong, i'm more than likely still paying for that trip...but fuck me, it was one of the best things i've ever done :) Whistler Mountain Heli i love you!
Snowing in Whistler as we speak, and I flew over the rockies last week, and they are looking v. snowy.Hell it snowed in Aberdeen last night*, why would I want Canada?
Hope it's another good year - soooooo much snow last season!
*Ok so it was a dusting, it froze onto the car, was a pain to shift and had melted by 11, but it's a start.
allegedly alberta resorts are already open!
:dance1:
was eyeing up the canada package deals with envy on igluski.com, but can't justify it when i'm still a novice numpty, but was thinking france 3 valleys - either courchevel 1650 or meribel. Any beta on these or alternatives in the area?
Looking at the snow histories March seems like a safe bet for good snow cover, fingers crossed.
Cat-skiing is supposed to be great, and not for the poor.
Cat-skiing is supposed to be great, and not for the poor.
Not been there but just been looking at the stats. I recommend you take oxygen masks for the altitude :lol:
Cat-skiing is supposed to be great, and not for the poor. For starters you get to drive a cat, or at least sit on the back, which is a lot more involved than sitting in a helicopter!
Are you sure you don't need any new bindings Chris?
I'm off to Cham...today! Oh, I am so excited :bounce:Mayrhofen on Sunday, get in! :bounce:
i've been to gayrhofen in summer its well brown round there.The name of our Chalet is 'Stoanerhof' which made me chuckle.
Snow wasn't good enough for much fun off piste, but it didn't stop us doing more than 30km of vertical descent.
"oh my god this is hard work getting up and i feel like an upturned turtle"
The mate I spent a week in Mayrhofen started the week raving about his new state of the art Flows, then proceeded to spend all week tweaking them, and finished the week ranting about how much of a pain they were and how quickly he was going to ebay them when he got home. I think I was quickest off the chair every time but one all week. Didn't really sell them to me, but not sure he got the hang of them, are you supposed to stay standing up whilst clipping in or knee forward? Either way doesn't make sense to me. :-\
especially riding tight trees where back foot control was required, it just felt like the whole board was wallowing underfoot.Maybe I just don't notice the difference now I've been on em for so long (and I won't riding tight trees again after I bottled a tight chicane and used my knee as a brake on possibly the biggest tree I could find (could blame the flows ::))) . Might have to get some conventional strap bindings to compare to. Do you use the two strap bindings which wrap over and encase the toes? Not sure what the difference is between those and regular two strap bindings.
4 foot forecast for Scotland early next week
On the flow tip, I've got the Burton step-ins, do they even make them any more? I really rate them, got them cos I'm always out with unsympathetic skiers, instant click in, you can even do it going off the chairlift without stopping. Its a long time since I've used owt else mind...
I never really use the actual resorts as they are usually too crowded and the lifts a bit limiting, prefer to go ski touring. Locally Glenshee has by far the best terrain, with the front of Glas Maol offering some great long steep off pite runs, but it's unfortunately the most sheltered and has a poor snow record. Lecht is shite and dull if you are just using lifts, the Ladder Hills in the are have good ski touring though. Loads of people rave about the challenging terrain on offer at Glencoe, but never actually been there myself. Overall Nevis Range and Cairngorm are probably bets though. I know some of the gullies on Lochnagar got skied last weekend, conditions look superb (vid on youtube)
How do you rate the other scottish areas Chris, I've only been to Cairngorm and Aonach?
On the flow tip, I've got the Burton step-ins, do they even make them any more? I really rate them, got them cos I'm always out with unsympathetic skiers, instant click in, you can even do it going off the chairlift without stopping. Its a long time since I've used owt else mind...
A few friends visited Glen Shiels (sp?) for a few days and really enjoyed it. I think they didn't expect much and so were quite surprised.
If anyone is keen on one last blast for the year, i would consider heading up. Conditions are looking superb.Only moderate sheets of ice and 40 knot winds?
har har, cynic.This one looks in good nick ;)
Have a look at the cams and tell me where the ice is http://www.highland-instinct.co.uk/webcams/index.php (http://www.highland-instinct.co.uk/webcams/index.php) (well apart from lecht, which is usually shit).
It may not be Whistler conditions, but for Scotland it's as good as you will get.
That's Bauchaille Etive Mor, not a ski resort (but I suspect you knew that).
I love Flow bindings.
As far as boards go most people forget to fit the board to their foot length. In other words stand on the board in your regular stance and make sure that your feet neither overhang too much or don't reach the edges.
no idea either. guess you will have to really throw your weight around to get it on an edge. Remember waving arms from side to side when you were learning? Might see if i can convince rowena to have a go on my 168 wide at some point.I have regular size 8.5 feet and had a go on my neighbour's wide board - never again - surprisingly difficult to transition quickly from edge to edge.
Might see if i can convince rowena to have a go on my 168 wide at some point.That's just cruel.
Anyone got any experience of cat skiing anywhere?
Was looking for a bit more than free cat skiing in resort Chris.
Was looking for a bit more than free cat skiing in resort Chris. Will either go on McNab stupidity in Chamonix or full on in the middle of nowhere cat skiing from a lodge. Silverton sounds interesting though, will do some more research on that one.
Lagers, you're a :wank: and should really receive -ve karma for using a picture already posted on ukb ;D ;D
http://www.whitegrizzly.com/# (http://www.whitegrizzly.com/#) hehe.
you up for something like that tim?
rode over the valley at Kicking Horse this year so I know how good the snow is and am tempted but it is b****d expensive
And I would suggest 1650 as the cheapest in Courchevel and some of the best riding in Trois Vallees Bowie.
We've just booked 2 weeks in Park City, hopefully get plenty of powder without the vast price tag. Won't be quite the same as White Grizzly, but there are a couple of Catski and Heli operations there that we'll have some days with.
Actually, you might have to check that they will even take snowboarders, I'm pretty sure that my mates said that they wouldn't take snowboarders and skiers in the same group.
[\quote]
F**k them then, bigotted bloody skiers.
Park City sounds and looks fantastic. Lucky you Tim
Missed the bit about the stag do Bowie, Meribel will probably be the best for night life, there's only really 3 bars in 1650, and you and me can't afford to go to 1850 like tlr and sa chris ;)
Also worth a think about would be;
Avoriaz / Morzine (stay in latter, good partying, varied terrain, short transfer / driveable)
Serre Chevalier (cheap, loads of terrain, and a big town to go drinking in)
Italy - cheap
You'll need to book early to get a whole s/c chalet.
Actually, you might have to check that they will even take snowboarders, I'm pretty sure that my mates said that they wouldn't take snowboarders and skiers in the same group.
[\quote]
F**k them then, bigotted bloody skiers.
I don't think that its because they are bigoted, I guess its just a case of incompatibility. Boarders can't cross flat ground at the same speed as skiers can pole across it even with snow shoes. When clients are paying ££££s for the days skiing they don't want to wait for boarders to take the board off, put snow shoe on,walk across, take snow shoes off, put board back on etc.
I'd have thought that if you booked the whole lodge for the week then you could do what you want and they would happily guide you. But I get the impression that they usually have more than one group staying at the lodge.
All a moot point anyway as there are boarders and skiers in this White Grizzly video http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=xtXu9NAHj98 (http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=xtXu9NAHj98)
And if you can afford White Grizzly then you can afford Courcheval 1850!
And as for Lagers optimism in the opening of the Gr Montets before Christmas can I please have some of whatever pills you're taking mate? :kiss2:
Nice. How long you there for?
Anyone know any good cheap accomodation in Verbier or Saas Fe ?
Not snowboarding, but shows snow cover on Glenshee on Saturday. Rain in Carpark, sleet at top of Sunnyside, snow from there up. Cover is good, but snow slushy and wet. Hopefully it will freeze up or get pisted to a good base, for more to follow.
Descent was hazardous - poor vis, wet snow, and a lot of scoured drops that were invisible until after you went over them.
Fun day out though.
A statement from Intrawest last night said the gondola's last safety inspection had been within the past six months.
If anyone is driving up to any of the Scottish resorts from Sheffield this winter I'd be up for sharing fuel & driving if you have space. :thumbsup:
If anyone is driving up to any of the Scottish resorts from Sheffield this winter I'd be up for sharing fuel & driving if you have space. :thumbsup:
Lagers be sure to give us a headsup if you do. Will hopefully be vanned up by January.
If you haven't been to Whistler before then do not bother with the Heli, get out to Flute bowl and North Flute Bowl, super fun with a hike of between 15-45min, if memory serves me right.
Since it's your 40th, save up for a day with a reputable heli operation.
My heli day in Whistler was hands down one of the best days of my life.
I've always wanted to go to the Island Lake Lodge cat place out the back of Fernie - meant to be some of the finest powder in the world and one of the best lodges....ah, bring on that lotto win :)
Dunno if Chris is a jaded rig-monkey who is tired of helos though...
Well seeing as it is my 40th, and everywhere is too expensive anyway, just booked Whistler for 2 weeks at start of Feb. Any tips for backcountry / hike to etc greatfully received.Simplest hiking from Whistler mountain is along the musical bumps - plenty of fresh in the bowls along there to be had.
(YYFY!)
Chris - I am off to Whistler next Sunday so will post daily conditions reports ;D
Hopefully Norton won't get too pissed off.
Not dumb, just that Scottish skiing is such a fickle fucker, it's not easy to give a straight answer. Due to very low altitude and maritime climate, it bears very little resemblence to snow pack and base development in alpine resorts. Last year was fantastic - one of the best seasons on record, and resorts still had good conditions well after many french resorts had closed. Year before was nothing short of disastrous. Year before that we had a ridiculous amount of snow in March - a week of almost continuous snow, lying a foot deep even on the coast, and good conditions for a moth, after what had been a pretty average season until that point.
I do like my own jokes :lol:
... assuming it's not too windy........
... assuming it's not too windy........
:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:
;D
We went to the Local Hero to settle up the bill from last year when they got our tab wrong but that Scottish bloke has left so didn't bother....
...
hotel forgot to charge us for our passes. Result.
Unfortunatley no change on the Canadian west coast. Nothing news for over a week >:(Yep - you've hit an unusual duff patch of sustained high pressure, that's for sure - most models predict a slight break towards the end of this week, then a proper low sometime mid next week - thankfully this weather has helped straighten out the massive instability in the snowpack somewhat.....
Unfortunatley no change on the Canadian west coast. Nothing news for over a week >:(Quel domage, Grom :boohoo:
Looks like Canada is going to get some pooder just as you get on the plane....typical
Forecast is for snow on Saturday and Sunday so hopefully will get a couple of days of fresh before I get on the plane. But I've skied most days anyway so its been fun, just not as good as hoped for.
Off to Whistler in 10 minutes so I will find out what all the hype is about.
Nothing new over in Vancouver. Gave up and went bouldering at Squamish on Saturday. Am going to check out the Cypress boulders before flying back tonight.Yep - 10 cm forecast for tonight, then lots more snow for next week or so.
Forecast is for snow tomorrow. Bunch of arse.
Yep - 10 cm forecast for tonight, then lots more snow for next week or so.I fear I may explode before Saturday.
I'm just itching for new gear!
Hey, nothing wrong with new toys.
Here's my thinking.
My flow bindings were quite painful last year (dunno why. digging into the based of my calf) and figured I'd move back to trad bindings which a few guys on here thought were better anyway.
Hey, nothing wrong with new toys.
Rome Solutions 163 on the way. A little bigger than my Clash. Can't wait to try it out.
Boots and bindings should be purchase tomorrow if I can decide which to get.
Glen Plake abbed down that rock slab to the right in The Blizzard Of Ahhs - soft twat.
Good effort actually stopping for powder pics. I can normally never be hooped.
What board was "Casty" riding? Base looks distinctly like my old Burton Air.
The lack of safety is insane! a measly little chain on some really high lifts.
Shit dog. I thought he was going to pull out a BASE rig at the top of that first jump.
When is someone going to film me on Deliverance from a helicopter?
anyone got any tips for websites to get boarding holidays for 'fuck all'. i seem to have exhausted my resources.
Then went Cat skiing at Powder Mountain, now ruined for resort skiing for life. Pics to follow.
Oh well I like them.They didn't show up for me.
Oh well I like them.They didn't show up for me.
Japan seems a long way to go just for the snow. Not to mention the snow-destroying air miles :whistle:
I tried riding a Burton Malolo that one of the guys on the cat trip had - I didn't really like it; too easy to turn and tricky to get a nice drawn out carving turn on it. Sure it would be nice if it was botomless fluff though, buy you can achieve a similar effect by just moving bindings backwards.
apparently travis rice has just made a snowboard vid with a $6m budget. shit.
Too easy?Did you go and visit the Prior factory shop in Whistles when you were there? Their Spearhead board looks very nice - I bought one of their splitboards for work recently - great board.
Had a look at the new Fish
(http://snowboardreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/burton-fish-2009.jpg)
Love the retro graphics
Quick SKIING question (that's a question by a skier, about skiing, for skiers, sorry):
Any tips and tricks on becoming better at jumps, bumps, and drops??
Ta :)
One thing I've found to be useful is to take jumps a bit slower and actually bounce a bit myself, I feel more in control that way.
see item 4 - (assuming by bouncing you mean popping on takeoff, and not bouncing off the deck on landing) but it's a personal choice - taking jumps a bit slower means item 8 is not being applied.Hmmm. Well it's worked for me, was the thing that "clicked" last time. Very happy to not have 8 applied, thank you.
I'm worried about this bend the knees thing. I'd also lift your knees too.Explain more plz.
I guess it's more of a 1/4 squat position rather than the quad stretch knee bend position. Which is why I starting imagining iron crosses. :)I'm worried about this bend the knees thing. I'd also lift your knees too.Explain more plz.
Here's the iPlayer link. http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00hzlqf/High_Altitude_Shorts_Snowboard_Testing/ (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00hzlqf/High_Altitude_Shorts_Snowboard_Testing/)
Here's the iPlayer link. http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00hzlqf/High_Altitude_Shorts_Snowboard_Testing/ (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00hzlqf/High_Altitude_Shorts_Snowboard_Testing/)
Finally got round to watching this. Quite interesting, but he could have done a bit more research, and some of his "facts" requred a pinch of salt. Also does anyone else find him a bit of an annoying twat?
Had my best days skiing ever on Saturday in Tignes. Amazingly light deep powder.
Nice Andy, wherabouts were you? Have you done the Spearhead traverse? sounds like a nice trip. Probably better suited to touring skis than splitboard though.Just went along the musical bumps to singing pass and back.
Did you see this?
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/british-columbia/story/2009/03/07/bc-golden-avalanche.html (http://www.cbc.ca/canada/british-columbia/story/2009/03/07/bc-golden-avalanche.html)
The comments section is fascinatingly predictable.
Saw the other one, guy was out with his wife backcountry, and she died?Yep - they left SOS messages in the snow which were seen, but not acted on by the RCMP - bad form....
nice, although that second one looks like you are wandering through a heap of debris.
Just booked a week in Morzine for February.
What are peoples thoughts on the place? I have only heard good things so far....
Photos of same - http://danmilner.com/snow.html (http://danmilner.com/snow.html)
Photos of same - http://danmilner.com/snow.html (http://danmilner.com/snow.html)
i'm glad he's got a new website. i rate him very much as a mtb photog. nice burb sth and rushup footpath pics too - you in them norton? ;)
Looks like Whistler is get an unceremonious dumping of snow and opening this weekend. Wankers.I shall be up soon - all the hills round here got a lot of snow over the past week.
Andy, you on it? Before the place descends into Olympic mayhem?
A good call, methinksIt was a fantastic first day of the season - lots of powder everywhere, though base was lacking, so you had to watch out for the occasional rock - went for a short hike and had bottomless turns and powder spraying over my head - welcome back winter :)
...and 153 is fairly small andi. Are you a stump?It's a jib board so meant to be ridden short, but you would be daft to buy a jib board to learn on.
Yeah i've been dissuaded and rtold TSA were trying to rip me off...Well TSA itself won't try to rip you off, but they employ mamy people, some of whom can't really remember what a beginner needs and may try to sell you their own preferences...something that never happens in the climbing world ;)
we live near Cas XScape
And my advice is avoiding boxes, kickers and shit until you can go top to bottom with linked carved turns properly and confidently.
If you are working in rentals you should be able to get a few boards on the slope
The grahipcs on that Rome board are nothing short of horiffic.
top to bottom with linked carved turns properly and confidently.
Are we talking about dicking about at Castleford here, or the bigger picture? I thought Andy was away to the Alps soon? And, IMO, anyone should learn to ride a board properly before going anywhere near any park, so they a) don't look like a prat b) have less chance of hurting themselves and c) don't clog the park with people lying at the bottom of jumps, getting in the way and being a hazard to other users.top to bottom with linked carved turns properly and confidently.
What, is the place empty and got a whole load bigger? Most quality jibbers I see can't do linked carved turns anywhere. Freeriding and jibbing are as mutuallly exclusive as bouldering and chuffing imho :shrug:
...Managed to break a wrist completely all bar 5mm of bone coming off a box wrong at Cas.I took my wrist off the top of my arm riding down a mountain. Split the Ulna down the middle and peeled it apart. Was funny, my arm looked like it was bent in a kind of a U shape.
And my advice is avoiding boxes, kickers and shit until you can go top to bottom with linked carved turns properly and confidently.
Are we talking about dicking about at Castleford here, or the bigger picture? I thought Andy was away to the Alps soon? And, IMO, anyone should learn to ride a board properly before going anywhere near any park, so they a) don't look like a prat b) have less chance of hurting themselves and c) don't clog the park with people lying at the bottom of jumps, getting in the way and being a hazard to other users.top to bottom with linked carved turns properly and confidently.
What, is the place empty and got a whole load bigger? Most quality jibbers I see can't do linked carved turns anywhere. Freeriding and jibbing are as mutuallly exclusive as bouldering and chuffing imho :shrug:
And where was I tellinh him to learn to freeride? Being able to do a few linked turns is hardly freeriding.
First year with no ski trips abroad since 1995!Ooooh - sucks to be you ;)
How frozen is the ground up your way now Chris? Is it going to be a bumper year in Scotland?
never thought I'd ride powder in England...
Mam tor gully should be coming in....
You could probably have skied it the other day...
Where are the best places to earn some turns in the peak then? I've got a touring set up so happy to hike or skin. The only place I've really heard of is Lose Hill.
Anymore prime spots or are they hush hush?
Is the road up to the Norfolk Arms alright for crappy RWD cars?
I'm hoping to get out for sunrise again in the morning. Some fresh flacons due tonight so could be good.
toying with the idea of trying to get out to join you word
Got out on my old rock board in the farmers fields across the road. Snow cover good (apart from catching an edge on what I assume was a frozen mud divot) but pitch not quite steep enough for slightly wet snow. Plus it hasn't seen any wax in well over 5 years. Actually considering giving it a wax and having another go. Shame I can't get further away but wee bairn is limiting options.
Weather: Peak District
Some sunny intervals, but rather cloudy at times with snow showers blowing through on strengthening northeasterly winds. Snow will drift above 200 metres with some significant drifting over the higher plateaux. Very significant wind chill developing.
Visibility
Generally good, but moderate or poor in snow showers or in drifting snow over higher plateaux.
Hill fog
Not expected.
Maximum winds above 400m
Northeasterly 25 to 30 mph with gusts 40 to 45mph.
Temperature
Valleys Minus 7 rising to Minus 2 Celsius
600 m Minus 6 to Minus 8 Celsius
Freezing level Freezing at all levels.
Only forecast worth reading:QuoteWeather: Peak District
Some sunny intervals, but rather cloudy at times with snow showers blowing through on strengthening northeasterly winds. Snow will drift above 200 metres with some significant drifting over the higher plateaux. Very significant wind chill developing.
Visibility
Generally good, but moderate or poor in snow showers or in drifting snow over higher plateaux.
Hill fog
Not expected.
Maximum winds above 400m
Northeasterly 25 to 30 mph with gusts 40 to 45mph.
Temperature
Valleys Minus 7 rising to Minus 2 Celsius
600 m Minus 6 to Minus 8 Celsius
Freezing level Freezing at all levels.
SamT, Mam Tor gully, first light this morning -
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4008/4256538760_c8dc32fe43.jpg)
May be free Tuesday Morn, and free on Wednesday, but only going out to find some fresh turns, can't be arsed going back to MT unless we get a shit load more snow.
(crappy vid of) Norton getting fresh today...
chances of making it to Aviemore some time next week (or for us actually being able to get up there for that matter)? or should we plan on an evening raid over to Aberdeen?
(http://img63.imageshack.us/img63/4909/higboard.jpg)Had a bit of a do at this today - it was fun. Depth of the snow is both amazing to ride on, and shit to walk in through, but you have to put a bit of effort in to reap the rewards. Don't bother trying to drive in up School Lane at the moment - we rode back down some of it! We walked/waded in from Millstone
I know they are getting dumped on right now, according to family in Les Gets. head for Mont Chery at Les Gets, esp the back side. Also good stuff off Nyon & Chamossiere chairs. And more tree riding than you can shake a stick at.
Avoriaz has tons, some really good stuff over the back into Switzerland towards Champery.
Chatel area is not worth the effort getting to it IMO.
Will you have touring kit, or you relying on lifts?
And will you have a car?
Good for the soul that Largers, nice one.My pre-work sessions made me very happy indeed
Wow, not heard any Northside for a while! Brilliant :great:I could remember how the music I wanted sounded, but couldn't remember the soddin' name of the band - I had to google to find it and then look through my pile of old music tapes for the right track :-[
Just watched the vid Lagers, very nice, very peaceful. I thought you captured the soul of the Peak District riding scene perfectly. :thumbsup:
Cheers for giving it away Adam, was studiously avoiding news pages so I could enjoy it this evening. Inevitable result, but would have been nice to watch without knowing.
White just walks away with the Gold for pipe. No one even looked in the same league really. What a last run!Was just amazing - on his own in that competition.
Not Winnats this time, but Meagaidh, and actually true!!! OMFG
http://www.youtube.com/v/ONjyXOewk9E (http://www.youtube.com/v/ONjyXOewk9E)
For those who may have missed it (http://ilovepwnage.com/video.php?v=NjA1OQ==)
once again I tell you, if you intend getting to scottish ski centres, now is the time. Cairngorm have got 1.5 - 2m in the last few days.
http://www.cairngormmountain.co.uk/ (http://www.cairngormmountain.co.uk/)
Planning a trip up to Glenshee on Tuesday.
I think getting to the ski centres is going to be the issue! Thinking about next weekend when it's hopefully calmed down/settled.
Reckon it will be busy next weekend, but OK if you have touring kit ;), and due to the long run of good conditions they have had - pretty much fully open since Xmas, there isn't the mad rush when conditions are good like there used to be.
If not get it waxed out there, they know what they're doing better. :)
Cheers for the knowledge lads, I presume duck stance means both feet pointed outwards?
The word from McNab on stance
http://www.0-21.co.uk/index.php/Setting-your-Stance.html (http://www.0-21.co.uk/index.php/Setting-your-Stance.html)
My superlightweight touring set-up isn't exactly ideal for powder though. I'll just have to gloat lots on the up to make up for the ribbing on the descent as I follow my mates carving lovely big free-ride turns, only able to bounce down like an Austrian from 1974 without the style.
My superlightweight touring set-up isn't exactly ideal for powder though. I'll just have to gloat lots on the up to make up for the ribbing on the descent as I follow my mates carving lovely big free-ride turns, only able to bounce down like an Austrian from 1974 without the style.
I hear you. Aparently Atomic Beta Rides aren't cutting edge powder tools.
Bit of column A, bit of column B. I've got the R9:22s with fritshi bindings, and guessed as they were the touring ski of choice of about 6 years ago you would have similar. Likewise they are still in too good a condition and used too rarely to justify buying some phat new ones.
TIGNES TOMORROW YYFY!:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:
Not totally snowboarding, but I only found out yesterday CR Johnson had died?
http://www.powdermag.com/features/news/cr-johnson-skier-dies-in-accident-at-squaw-valley/index.html/ (http://www.powdermag.com/features/news/cr-johnson-skier-dies-in-accident-at-squaw-valley/index.html/)
RIP.
(http://www.snowboardcanada.com/uploads/Image/Content/News/RollingStone-Full.jpg)
Skiing but worth a post. Insane drop!
Anyone got any recommendations for some decent snowshoes? Basically for hiking with my board in Scotland/Lakes this winter.Have used the MSR ones a lot - the best sort for mountainous terrain as they provide a lot more grip on firmer snow (especially when traversing slopes) - make sure you get some with heel elevators - makes walking up long slopes way easier.
Dashed inconsiderate what.
Things are getting whiter up here, just hope it consolidates to a base rather than getting stripped back again.
http://www.highland-instinct.co.uk/webcams/index.php (http://www.highland-instinct.co.uk/webcams/index.php)
Things are getting whiter up here, just hope it consolidates to a base rather than getting stripped back again.
Dashed inconsiderate what.Things are looking good here too....
Things are getting whiter up here, just hope it consolidates to a base rather than getting stripped back again.
http://www.highland-instinct.co.uk/webcams/index.php (http://www.highland-instinct.co.uk/webcams/index.php)
November optimism
For those of you weirdos who seem to think a board is the way forward, remeber this is released this "fall":
His alround riding ability is probably second to none?
Anyone know where this is? England somewhere?
Anyone know where this is? England somewhere?
Here? (http://www.yadmoss.co.uk/snow-and-weather-report)
Anyone know where this is? England somewhere?
Here? (http://www.yadmoss.co.uk/snow-and-weather-report)
Yes! How did you work that one out?
Would have thought the Poma in the background was a clue, and it don't look like Scotland in the background.
Don't get all bertie bitterpiss now :)
by stating what I thought was pretty obvious.
by stating what I thought was pretty obvious.
I must be missing something then? How does a pic of a lift make things obvious? I knew it wasn't Scotland, but as this place is supposed to be a 'bad kept secret', a search on the internet didn't throw anything up? Don't worry, you succeeded in making me look small and clueless, nice one.
Whatever, that guy needs to sort his stance out!
Due to the amount of snow we have again, and the fact that i have a hill that seems to be frequented by these snowboarder types next to my house every winter i am keen to get hold of a board etc.
Anyone got an old one they want to sell, plus boots etc, around size 9-10 or failing that what size, type, colour etc do i need. never done it before but surf a lot and skate a bit.
Loads on ebay but i have no idea as to which to choose. Cant see me ever properly getting into it so probably just need some old plank to bomb down the hill.
You could always go for a snowskate
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snowskate (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snowskate)
A lot cheaper than buying board, boots and bindings.
Never seen one used on anything other than a piste though, maybe not ideal for bombing down a local hill.
Anyone got any yorkshire beta? SA Chris?
Yad Moss
Yad Moss
Where is this? ;)
Yad Moss
Where is this? ;)
Before someone else gets in with this.....Let me google that for you! (http://lmgtfy.com/?q=Yad+Moss&l=1) :whistle:
Down to Loch Avon Adam?
Very wise, a bit of windslab about.
For those of you weirdos who seem to think a board is the way forward, remeber this is released this "fall":
Jeremy Jones' Deeper Trailer - A Snowboard Film (http://vimeo.com/7067445)
Even as a skier, it looks chuffing awesome.
(I think SAChris gave me the heads up about this last year)
For those of you weirdos who seem to think a board is the way forward, remeber this is released this "fall":
Jeremy Jones' Deeper Trailer - A Snowboard Film (http://vimeo.com/7067445)
Even as a skier, it looks chuffing awesome.
(I think SAChris gave me the heads up about this last year)
Finally got hold of a copy of this - some of the stuff they're doing is fucking insanity.
For those of you weirdos who seem to think a board is the way forward, remeber this is released this "fall":
Jeremy Jones' Deeper Trailer - A Snowboard Film (http://vimeo.com/7067445)
Even as a skier, it looks chuffing awesome.
(I think SAChris gave me the heads up about this last year)
Finally got hold of a copy of this - some of the stuff they're doing is fucking insanity.
Just got hold of it. Will be watching later. Looks brill.
Adam, have you watched the 3 hours of extras? How are they?
Have seen the film and well impressed, see posts above/below/sideways, but not sure whether to buy the dvd for the extras too?
Have you had a look at this that I linked to a few pages back?
http://www.relentlessenergy.com/followmedownfilm (http://www.relentlessenergy.com/followmedownfilm)
I've sacked off winter to much fun to be had on the board at the mo. Sweet!
New Brain Farm movie looks ridiculous
http://artofflightmovie.com/#ooid=VnbGox (http://artofflightmovie.com/#ooid=VnbGox)
If anyone was thinking of a trip up to Scotland this winter, i would say this week coming would be a good choice.
http://www.snow-forecast.com/resorts/Glenshee/6day/mid (http://www.snow-forecast.com/resorts/Glenshee/6day/mid)
been snowing in the hills on and off since Saturday.
I was out last week
better snow than we got all week in Les Deux Alpes last week!
In a word, no.
I've got a proper carving / race board
early March ... the Valley Blanche was getting a little thin even then...
Fultonius, long time no see. Not sure about the start of April, it'll be warm by then and there's not a huge snowbase now so off piste wont be too great even if it does snow in a few weeks. Fingers crossed though.
Where and when do people recommend?1990, Snowy Peaks.
Where's Andy R when you need him?
Mate of mine ( a bit of scruff to say the least) ended up wearing a pair with a big hole at the heel of his sock, reckoned it was the only place he could show his own character in the "clown suit" (his words) he was made to wear. Maybe your mum is right to be concerned.That's got to be the most impressively :off: post in a long time, well done, not sure if you deserve a wad or punter? So I'll neither ;)
Good luck!
Mate of mine ( a bit of scruff to say the least) ended up wearing a pair with a big hole at the heel of his sock, reckoned it was the only place he could show his own character in the "clown suit" (his words) he was made to wear. Maybe your mum is right to be concerned.
Good luck!
In a bit of a cross-over with the Dad's topic, what are peoples opinions on the best age to take the mini's out on the snow? You see tinys on skis from before they can walk but I'd be keen for Mini-Obi MkI (who'll be 4 in Oct, but is tall for his age) to start on a board if poss. I've seen a few mini-boards but they aren't that common.
Thoughts? Experiences?
Over here (Bavaria/Austria) kids normally start on skis at three or four, but I've never seen them on snowboards until quite a bit later. As Chris said, the initial learning curve is steeper and less intuitive.
Or so I'm told. I have never ski'd. I intend to start learning this winter, though, because touring with a snowboard is such a complete PITA. I did an off piste course with a guide in Zillertal a couple of years ago; he said he mostly snowboarded for years but has gone almost completely back to skis, because modern fat rocker skis are almost as good as a snowboard in powder and so much more practical for everything else.
Back to the snowboarding dads thing: it's difficult to be a snowboarding dad with a small child on skis, because you're basically hardly able to assist kids/beginners - except with getting on & off chairlifts a bit. I had the good fortune that my wife and son first learned to ski on a holiday with friends who are both very capable skiers, but the first few outings after that, just us as a family without experienced skiers around, were a bit worrying.
Didn't really know you could get crampons that would, wouldn't they be a bit eh crap? I was thinking of taking both boots and changing at the top which I suppose is not ideal especially when my board is not the lightest to start with.
Did 3/4 of Ben Lawers, but bailed due to lack of psyche for deep stuff from my mate on a pair of horrific blades with mountaineering boots..... :o :o
Dull question but: does anyone wear wrist guards for snowboarding? I do, but I have broken/ fractured my left arm twice (both stupid avoidable climbing injuries ...) and am exceedingly unkeen on a repeat. But my impression is that they are probably only relevant if you are riding on-piste in a resort that's turned icey. Son #1 is going on school trip to Austria in a month and I am wondering whether to pressure him to take and wear wrist guards.
SCIENCE (http://www.ski-injury.com/prevention/wrist_guards)
and if he's doing stuff in the air then think about back protection (as well as the obligatory helmet, of course)
But, judging from looking around Whistler last week no-one is wearing guards and the shops aren't selling them either.
I think it's a euro thing - have never seen them for sale over here either integrated in gloves or as separate items.Interesting. That was my working assumption but I didn't see any like that in the stores in Whistler ... but it's possible I missed them somehow. Then again I don't think it gets lethally icey there as often as in the Alps so maybe less of an issue?But, judging from looking around Whistler last week no-one is wearing guards and the shops aren't selling them either.
You wouldn't see them sold/worn separately because most snowboarding gloves generally have them built in.
Then again I don't think it gets lethally icey there as often as in the Alps so maybe less of an issue?
I need a split board.
And Black Spout on Lochnagar is in skiable nick, although a rock or 2 showing through if anyone fancies taking their skis for a long walk.
Quite cool
http://www.nowness.com/day/2012/2/16/1893/jacob-sutton-s-l-e-d-surfer (http://www.nowness.com/day/2012/2/16/1893/jacob-sutton-s-l-e-d-surfer)
Galpinos, you still up here next weekend?
Seriously thinking about chopping my board in half. Anyone done it?
Seriously thinking about chopping my board in half. Anyone done it?
Seriously thinking about chopping my board in half. Anyone done it?
My Dad has a bench saw...I'd avoid a large toothed bench saw designed for chopping wood, it will take quite a chunk out of the board and the finish will be well rough. Ideally you need a large band saw or industrial frikkin laser! You might find one of your work neighbours might have something suitable and would do it for a few beers.
Seriously thinking about chopping my board in half. Anyone done it?Check this out from my mate jony http://chamonixinsider.com/tag/jonny-barr/ (http://chamonixinsider.com/tag/jonny-barr/)
Check this out from my mate jony http://chamonixinsider.com/tag/jonny-barr/ (http://chamonixinsider.com/tag/jonny-barr/)
really hard work
The final constraint is getting any uphill gear (splitboard ideally, more likely snowshoes for now) bought without the the wife complaining about extravagance ...I refer you to the 'home made' splitty discussion earlier in this thread....still a few $ but not as bad.
snowshoes for now) bought without the the wife complaining about extravagance ...
I'll have a word with her if that will help - something along the lines of "look at the state I'm in. This is because I don't have any snowshoes or access to snow. You don't want Mr Seiger to end up like me, do you?"Can you have a word with Mrs Obi please? Persuade her she wants to look after the kids while I get a week or two boarding in with the boys, and while we're at it, that we do want to move to Vancouver/Squamish for a year or two?! Cheers. Buy you a pint.
Where's the home made skis pic Lagers?
time machine you used to take that snowboard back to 1983?
Hey, Dr R to you, and those were essential snowmobile safety training classes...Even if you are working full time, you seem to get a lot I'm sure Andy (W? the Vancouver one) will be able to give you some pointers, or there are like minded folk aroud who might take you out for a day and show you some pointers.Yup Mr R (not W) has indeed offered and in general is a guru on BC living. Though he purports to work on weekdays which is when I am free'est. That said in the last few days he has been taking snowmobile lessons in company time ...
Really needs a bit more for it to get good.Shame it's meant to warm up and rain at the weekend now... :'(
with snow forecast for tonight, I intend to go to Le Piste des Alpacas around sun-up for an hour or so of gentle turns and, of course, a pastry and a cup of coffee on the slopes
anyone else in?
Quotewith snow forecast for tonight, I intend to go to Le Piste des Alpacas around sun-up for an hour or so of gentle turns and, of course, a pastry and a cup of coffee on the slopes
anyone else in?
As in Saturday AM? I'm keen, though it may be wishful thinking. Sun-up is usually my shift holding the yoot, and its not looking like powder out there.
It was snowing eariler this evening in Buxton but it's now stopped >:(
X Games 2013 ► REAL SNOW MIX
Piste d'Alpaca on Vimeo
Piste d'Alpaca on Vimeo
Looks good! Worth the hike.
Just bought two transceivers ... $$$$$$ :o
Just bought two transceivers ... $$$$$$ :o
And hopefully shovels and probes! .... dig through concrete ...
Get him loaded up - marginal weight.I have shovel and probe. Didnt want to overburden thesiger_jr (just turned 13). So far we have been out only in a group with two other properly-equipped experienced people. I figured the probability of him being the only person not buried after a slide is pretty small. But he almost ran up the second bootpack we tackled yesterday so maybe is already ready for some extra load in the rucksack.Just bought two transceivers ... $$$$$$ :oAnd hopefully shovels and probes! No good if one of you gets buried and the other is trying to dig through concrete with his goggles.
Awesome day actually. Fresh snow from previous three days, clear skies, no wind, very few people venturing out of the resort. Only negative was riding back into the village on the Singing Pass trail ... a nightmare on a board ... ever done it?
At risk of turning this into the BC thread: here's the good bit of our day from thesiger_jr gopro footage. It's much like derbyshire under snow really.
Scotland's resort snow is as good as it gets at the moment. We have had dustings at sea level all this week, and significant falls in the hills. If you fancied getting up here this season now is the time to do it. Glenshee has all 22 lifts running and the whole mountain has rideable snow. Shame it gets so fucking crowded on weekends. Think of blowing up the road on the Blairgowrie side.OMG even Cairnwell??
Hopefully heading up next Friday if anyone fancies it.
Even snow shoeing back would be preferable, even from Cowboy - just try not to bugger up the skintrack too much.Always best to MTFU and skin back over to the shoulder on FluteNothing left in the budget after buying the transceivers ... so no splitboard+skins for the "skin back" yet. However ... we have already concluded that even a post-holing trudge would be preferable to ever going near SP again.Quoteat this point, you should reach a fresh strip of pure corduroy (this is one of the first sections they groom after the punters have gone) - once on the corduroy, point the board straight downhill and turn on your inner soundtrack of ride of the valkyries...What time of night are we talking about!
OMG even Cairnwell??
They'll be Voile.Hockey tape does - I always carry a roll in my winter emergency kit... Can use it to fix skins on as well if your glue is suspect...
And no gaffer tape doesn't work sub-zero.
Thought I'd resurect this thread rather than starting a new one...
I'm looking at geting a new pair of boots and have been looking at the Burton Rulers (good mix of flex, stiffness and cost) but can't find anywhere in Sheff now Slide's gone and the ski village burnt down so gonna have to go t'inteweb...
I know buying boots is a minefield online so just wanted to see if anyone had any info on sizes that Burton boots come up? (i.e. should I be looking at going street size? Half up? Half down? Full up/down? :shrug:)
I wear a 9.5/10 street, 8.5 anasazi green, 10 walking boot.... So basicaly a 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5 are what I'm looking for...
Cheers!
:D
I would highly recommend https://www.freezeproshop.com/ (https://www.freezeproshop.com/) in Edinburgh
The word on the street out here is that the newer Burton's are pish and break down/bag out really badly. (i.e. like 10 rides) I just had to replace my 11 year of Burton Ions, which served me well, but everyone I know said NO Burton and even the local bottfitter has stopped stocking them. I ended up with a pair of Deeluxe Viscous which are reputed to be, and seem, solid!
rocker shmocker. Demo one, i found them lifeless. Might be good in powder, but I felt it lacked any pop when turning, carving or ollying, felt like riding my old Burton Craig Kelly Air from late 90s. Possibly a good addition to a quiver, but wouldn't get one as an all round board. IMO anyway.
How stiff are the Dialogues? And how do they size up? Surfdome have em for a decent price right now....On the stiffer end of the scale - maybe 7 or 8/10 ( if that makes sense?). I rate them, and they've lasted well (8 seasons out of them and they're still good).
:D
Sound good.... Stiffer than the rulers and cheaper (and judging by Fultonius's info not as liable to turn into Ugg boots after a few days) - surfdome will also pay any return postage so reckon I'll order two pairs and send one back....
Any recomendations on bindings? Looking for a stiffer all mountain type, too old for the park or pipe :whistle:...
Was looking at the Rome Arsenals as a mid price solution (would love some of those Union carbon jobbies but the wallet ain't having none of that)... Also looking at Burton classics - these look ace (simple design, well stiff, bombproof) but seem to be marketed as a splitboard binding (not a bad idea if I ever got a splitty I suppose).... Any thoughts?
Ta,
:D
Don't really wanna go over £150 really (initial budget was boots and bindings for £250ish....very ish :shrug:)...
Been riding for over 20 years (sporadically) so wanting summat responsive rather than flexi really....
http://www.tetongravity.com/films/jeremy-jones-further/watch/ (http://www.tetongravity.com/films/jeremy-jones-further/watch/)If you've got any 'mates in prison' who might not be available to watch it whilst it's free, or who might potentially want to want to watch it again when they get out...
Worth a watch while it's free.
http://player.vimeo.com/video/87821325into this http://savevideo.me/ (http://savevideo.me/) they might want to right click and save as... :whistle:
easily make it there and bake in the evenings
place with guide in La Grave are still available!
Can anyone recommend a board repair/service shop in Sheffield, or nearby?
Got a Lib Tech that's been sat in the garage for a few years but only had 2 weeks use on it before I tore an edge out. Just want to see if it's fixable/viable for use.
the guys at Decathlon have all the gear; worth asking/showing them as a starting pointGood call - they can't fix the damage but they didn't think it was too bad and said it might be worth just using epoxy and a clamp to fix. I'm getting an edge service and wax done there anyway for £18.
There used to be a snowboard shop down at Shalesmoor/Infirmary road, not sure if it is still there though since I moved out of the neighbourhood. If your board has had it, I've got a Burton Dominant 156 in great condition that I can pretty much give you as its just gathering dust at the moment. Needs a wax but otherwise in perfect nick.Cheers Tim but I reckon it might be a bit small for my bulk in powder :) I've heard that shop is shut but I'll try ringing them tomorrow.
You going to make it up here this year? I've upgraded my touring boots, need to justify the expense!
You going to make it up here this year? I've upgraded my touring boots, need to justify the expense!
Cheers Tim but I reckon it might be a bit small for my bulk in powder
You going to make it up here this year? I've upgraded my touring boots, need to justify the expense!
You got a splitty Chris?QuoteCheers Tim but I reckon it might be a bit small for my bulk in powder
Seriously, I would be well keen for a cheap 156 if you want shot of it bigtub.
No problem bubba hope you get it sorted. When and where you heading? Did a week over new year and heading to Arlberg in March for a week too. Would go more but work gets in the way...the guys at Decathlon have all the gear; worth asking/showing them as a starting pointGood call - they can't fix the damage but they didn't think it was too bad and said it might be worth just using epoxy and a clamp to fix. I'm getting an edge service and wax done there anyway for £18.There used to be a snowboard shop down at Shalesmoor/Infirmary road, not sure if it is still there though since I moved out of the neighbourhood. If your board has had it, I've got a Burton Dominant 156 in great condition that I can pretty much give you as its just gathering dust at the moment. Needs a wax but otherwise in perfect nick.Cheers Tim but I reckon it might be a bit small for my bulk in powder :) I've heard that shop is shut but I'll try ringing them tomorrow.
When and where you heading?Not much left but we got a last minute deal to La Plagne / Les Arcs. I've not been for ages so that'll be perfect for me to relearn.
nice area, have a good one and hope you get back on it quicklyWhen and where you heading?Not much left but we got a last minute deal to La Plagne / Les Arcs. I've not been for ages so that'll be perfect for me to relearn.
You got a splitty Chris?
But, for those of you used to the bun fight for powder at places like Grand Montets, this place is a dream. Mid-week and it is pretty much deserted, and those few that are about either don't like going off piste, don't like riding trees, or don't like bad visibility. Hence, had all the little off piste stashes untouched for hours on end, getting fresh lines well in to each afternoon.
Just arrived back from five days in Courmayeur. Never considered Italy before as a place to go as thought I was happy with mostly Austria and France. But, I'd gone and won a charity auction trip before Christmas here so thought it would be good. The resort is actually a very cool area, with a small but nice selection of red and blue groomers with a couple of blacks. But, for those of you used to the bun fight for powder at places like Grand Montets, this place is a dream. Mid-week and it is pretty much deserted, and those few that are about either don't like going off piste, don't like riding trees, or don't like bad visibility. Hence, had all the little off piste stashes untouched for hours on end, getting fresh lines well in to each afternoon.
And, the bonus to top it all is that the standard of both on mountain and resort centre dining is amazing. I knew obviously that the Italians are generally renowned for their cooking but this was better than I was hoping. One mountain restaurant was probably up in the top three meals I've ever had. A final YYFY too, decided to get back on skis for the first time in 25 years (and when I was 15 I only did about 5 or 6 hours of lessons) and ended up skiing blues and a couple of reds by the end of the second morning of lessons. Result ;D
Didn't try the Bombardino's but only because egg nog makes me quite sick :sick:Just arrived back from five days in Courmayeur. Never considered Italy before as a place to go as thought I was happy with mostly Austria and France. But, I'd gone and won a charity auction trip before Christmas here so thought it would be good. The resort is actually a very cool area, with a small but nice selection of red and blue groomers with a couple of blacks. But, for those of you used to the bun fight for powder at places like Grand Montets, this place is a dream. Mid-week and it is pretty much deserted, and those few that are about either don't like going off piste, don't like riding trees, or don't like bad visibility. Hence, had all the little off piste stashes untouched for hours on end, getting fresh lines well in to each afternoon.
And, the bonus to top it all is that the standard of both on mountain and resort centre dining is amazing. I knew obviously that the Italians are generally renowned for their cooking but this was better than I was hoping. One mountain restaurant was probably up in the top three meals I've ever had. A final YYFY too, decided to get back on skis for the first time in 25 years (and when I was 15 I only did about 5 or 6 hours of lessons) and ended up skiing blues and a couple of reds by the end of the second morning of lessons. Result ;D
^^^ Shhssshhhh - this is the Chamoniard's local secret! We used to go through the tunnel regularly on cat-4 shitty weather days to hit the "safe" stashes and eat good pizza! Did you try the Bombardino's? Certainly lowers your afternoon inhibitions :alky:
There's the massive Cascade run off the back all the way down to Sixt, which is apparently ace, but I've never done as you need to get a bus back to Samoen. Maybe one to do as last run of the day and stop in Sixt for some food, cool little place. There's a new high speed lift from Verclan as well which cuts down queues.
Good knowledge!
Assume the Tete de Vertet is the top of the Veret drag lift? Its not marked.
what does "par a concied" mean?
And I can't see the Colonney on the piste map, where abouts is it?
Awesome thanks. Looks like a run off Pelouse first would be a good option to scope out options for entries and exits coming off Veret and Balacha.
Cool, let me know if you head up.Will do, those guidebooks look good too thanks, might just get one of them and in turn give me an excuse to splash some money on a split board :)
The new(ish) Ski Mountain Guides are handy if you are after inspiration.
http://www.skimountain.co.uk/ski-guidebooks
British Backcountry on Facebook is good for trip reports too.
There's a second hand thread on British Backcountry - splitties do come up there sometimes.Cheers I'll take a look
There's the massive Cascade run off the back all the way down to Sixt, which is apparently ace, but I've never done as you need to get a bus back to Samoen. Maybe one to do as last run of the day and stop in Sixt for some food, cool little place. There's a new high speed lift from Verclan as well which cuts down queues.
Cascade is a lovely scenic run but the skiing is average and it can get quite icy. A nice way to break it up is to eat at the Gite du Lac du Gers. My last season there was in 2005 so this might be a little out of date but……here’s a phone by the piste, give them a bell, they come down with a skidoo, grab a rope and they tow you up to the Gite. Lovely three course set menu lunch then ski down all the way to Sixt. The skiing in Sixt is actually quite good if the snow’s there.
If the snow is good the Gers bowl is the jewel in the crown of off-piste. The best runs in aren’t form Tete Pelouse but form the Tete de Verte. Take the Veret drag up, walk along the crest and there a multiple entries in to the Gers bowl. The first two are the most popular and par a concied entry, are the easiest. Further along the ridge gives increasing challenge of access and run (cliffs to avoid, the odd no fall zone).
I’m not sure if you like touring/hiking at all but the Tete du Colonney makes a nice little morning outing.
intrigued to know how he keeps the phone upright and pointing at him.
Well our plans were scuppered a bit. We went to Samoen but due to high winds the link to Flaine was closed so no Gers bowl or anything like that. Did score some fresh off some of the north facing ridges, but it was mostly tracked out. Did score great fresh tracks every other day of the trip, one day was one of the best I've ever had. Even got on skis and had a crack at some freshies, good fun!Fly first thing on Saturday morning though having to fly to Paris and drive (don't ask). Will be in Samoens from Saturday night for a week though so hope your prediction of endless snow is true! How did you find getting back on skis?
Anyone who is off to the Alps over the next week or two is going to score more snow than they can eat, looks to be dumping down.
I still kept the skiing up as I think it's a lot easier for touring
Have considered it, and it has the plus that it wouldn't involve sacrificing a winter or two learning to ski. But it's a lot of faff, and seems less suitable for a lots alpine terrain. I'm not thinking about things like traverses above death drops - have no intention of doing those anyway - but more that lots of alpine tours involve long approaches/exits on forest roads with extensive bits of flat or uphill where rebuilding back into skinning mode would be a huge pita.The transition becomes very easy - I've never been any slower than friends on skis.
By carefully avoiding running most of my life I seem to be entering old age with reasonably robust knees/ hips/ etc. I have no interest in risking that with a sport where your legs regularly head off unpredictably in independent directions.
I still kept the skiing up as I think it's a lot easier for touring
I've never skied. but am tempted to learn - if we ever get a decent winter again - because it's so much the superior option for touring.
No! Keep the faith - get a splitboard.
Fly first thing on Saturday morning though having to fly to Paris and drive (don't ask). Will be in Samoens from Saturday night for a week though so hope your prediction of endless snow is true! How did you find getting back on skis?
good week thanks. Had plenty of fresh snow to play in during the week so spent a fair bit of time in the trees towards Morillon and Les Carroz. Because it was half term in the UK and French holidays too some of the lift queues and crowds on the piste were pretty manic though, probably as bad as can remember. And Samoens 1600 is a bit of a bottleneck as everyone is trying to get up to Tête de Saix.Fly first thing on Saturday morning though having to fly to Paris and drive (don't ask). Will be in Samoens from Saturday night for a week though so hope your prediction of endless snow is true! How did you find getting back on skis?
How was your week?
Snowboard design has come on so far in the 10 years since I last bought a board it's a bit of a minefield!
Anyone got any done this season? Apart from our Cannuck residents.
Discrimination!
I for one would like to read a report from Andy R on his recent cat ski trip ...
Had a couple of nice days around Contamines/St Gervais etc. - although, even when it's deep it can be a bit flat and you get stuck a lot! Apparently the Chamonix season pass now includes those ski resorts (this started the year after we left grrr...)I liked Les Contamines a lot, nice little ski area which is steeper than Saint Gervais so none of the flat spots that you get there. Lift system is generally nicely set out too with not many pinch points and mostly fast chairs or cabins too. Oh, and really friendly lifties, like nothing I've experienced in Europe before!
Courmayeur has a lot of nice off-piste tree stuff, as does La Clusaz. Champoluc/Gressoney seems a bit off the radar for UK holiday makers. It seemed like it would have loads of accessible fun off-piste (it hadn't snowed for 6 weeks when we were there...) and lots of Italian village charm (if that's your kind of thing) and quiet - a nice contrast to the Chamonix powder madness...
Nothing to report other than bottomless pow, endless face-shots, occasional mandatory air and a heavily depleted bank account... strongly recommend :punk:
I'm a big fan of Burton Custom's; they do almost everything well enough without being spectacular at one thing. I've owned numerous versions of one since 1999 and still really like them; I did a full season in Fernie on one and never wanted one with more float in pow; I was on a 160 then and about 72kgs. I also currently have a Nug 148 (messing about on groomers) and a Sherlock 161 (for powder days) and am around 78kgs at the moment. I'd probably look at around a 156 to 158 Custom and go from there depending if you want it in flying v format or not...Still rocking my Salomon Definition 156 and Dialogue boots from more than a decade ago. Not sure if this reflects how decent they were to start with or how little I get out on them each year. :'(
Nothing to report other than bottomless pow, endless face-shots, occasional mandatory air and a heavily depleted bank account... strongly recommend :punk:
Did you go out with Powder Mountain? Our day out with them was one of the best days on snow I ever had. Only downside was doing it in the middle of our second week, the last few days on resort seemed utterly mundane.
Ha ha! This is a common theme. I too have again sacked off learning to Ski in favour of new snowboard kit!I feel a trip to ROHO (http://www.roho.co.uk/watersports/Mens-Packages.html) coming on, after all I am going twice this year (for the first time in years), (ok so 1.5 times and mainly with kids but I don't need much justification to get new kit. :-[)
Ha ha! This is a common theme. I too have again sacked off learning to Ski in favour of new snowboard kit!I feel a trip to ROHO (http://www.roho.co.uk/watersports/Mens-Packages.html) coming on, after all I am going twice this year (for the first time in years), (ok so 1.5 times and mainly with kids but I don't need much justification to get new kit. :-[)
In this part of the world we are lucky to be able to stroke our egos by ordering custom boards direct from the factory shop at Prior (https://www.priorsnow.com/). Son #1 is getting this thing as a slightly late 17th birthday present. Their Shotgun model with a "hybrid" camber, whatever that means. Inevitably deciding on the top sheet seemed to occupy most of his time before the board was ordered. No wolf options, sadly.
(https://s29.postimg.org/65cvf2dx3/Screen_Shot_2017_01_25_at_21_03_30.png)
I just dug out an interesting stick from my attic
a 1998 Burton Supermodel 181 with leather Ride Team bindings
I got given it for a heli trip to Nepal that ended up not happening when the king sacked his government or something
I just dug out an interesting stick from my attic
a 1998 Burton Supermodel 181 with leather Ride Team bindings
I got given it for a heli trip to Nepal that ended up not happening when the king sacked his government or something
Bizarrely I ended up renting a board in Mondolé from a Dino, who runs the snowboard museum: https://www.facebook.com/Museo-Italiano-dello-Snowboard-562178050472974/
He'd probably love your board!
Is it like trying to turn a tanker? My skis are 185!!!
If you don't mind removing the bindings you can get a snowboard in with a set of skis in most bags.This is what I was thinking I might have to do. No problem really just a faff.
I have a Dakine Fallline 190cm wheeled bag. I'd imagine you could get the 175? It'd fir a board and skis fine, decent quality, usually on sale somewhere, especially if you don't mind the "girls" version.Yep I've just come across this bag. The 190cm will have to do as my skis are 178cm. Let's see if I can find one of them cheap girly versions....
Anyone found any longer term forecast sites in any way reliable?
Still swithering about a Les Gets trip at the end of the month, but it's currently looking warm and snowless for the next week or so, and if it carries on I probably won't bother.
You'll be fine with a good sized snowboard bag Plattsy, I've just used my Burton 181 wheeled case for a trip with two pairs of skis, one snowboard, bindings removed plus a pair of ski boots and two sets of poles too. All fitted with room to spare for things like thermals and goggles. I had to pack another pair of ski boots and snowboard boots in a hold-all but that was fine as was well within my weight limit.If you don't mind removing the bindings you can get a snowboard in with a set of skis in most bags.This is what I was thinking I might have to do. No problem really just a faff.I have a Dakine Fallline 190cm wheeled bag. I'd imagine you could get the 175? It'd fir a board and skis fine, decent quality, usually on sale somewhere, especially if you don't mind the "girls" version.Yep I've just come across this bag. The 190cm will have to do as my skis are 178cm. Let's see if I can find one of them cheap girly versions....
Thanks chaps.
After much frustrating internet searching I wonder if someone on here might have an idea.
For the first time I'm planning to travel with both skis and snowboard and I was thinking a suitable bag for carrying both would exist. Best I've found so far is a dakine concourse 200cm behemoth. It's designed for two lots of skis rather than a pair of skis and a snowboard. So it would mean a less than ideal baggage packing set up.
Anyone come across a bag old or new which fits the bill?
Thanks in advance.
So flying to Geneva a week today, flying back the next Monday. Anyone about, holler! skiing PdS and Grand Massif. Probably taking ski given the conditions, make a change
Can't see link? If it the lower slopes of mont chery, then meh, never much goodNah, just mates out riding in Chamonix, up to 1800m!
http://www.snow-forecast.com/resorts/Les-Gets/6day/mid
Bit on the way to freshen slopes
Where you heading?
Yeah offpiste will be sketch, I'll just content myself with hovering up what fresh I can on sides of pistes and trees. Plus my brother is probably not going to make it (house buying / selling nightmares) so I will be without anyone reliable to head off with.
Good and high! You been to any snowdomes or dryslopes with her? We did dryslope lessons for a while with Kyle and he was doing OK, but it was a bit boring on the beginners one and he couldn't cope with the drag lift on the larger one (too short and light) so we sacked them off. Were hoping to get out locally once or twice with the kids locally this winter, but the planets have not aligned for it to happen. It might still though/ Possibly.
From personal experience, I would not rule out the possibility that kids want to board. Most of son #2's friends ski (as far as I can judge: because their 30-something parents are all backcountry snobs, who think boards are inefficient, and won't allow any choice) so I encouraged him to learn skiing for his first three seasons after we moved to Canada. But he has gravitated voluntarily to snowboarding and is so much more psyched. Either he is hopelessly-retro or perhaps he is in the vanguard of the backlash against the backlash?
From personal experience, I would not rule out the possibility that kids want to board. Most of son #2's friends ski (as far as I can judge: because their 30-something parents are all backcountry snobs, who think boards are inefficient, and won't allow any choice) so I encouraged him to learn skiing for his first three seasons after we moved to Canada. But he has gravitated voluntarily to snowboarding and is so much more psyched.
Is snowboarding still popular with the youth in Canada?
Having just come back from a week in Val d'Isere, it struck me how few snowboarders there were and how they all seem to be thirty odd plus.
Admittedly Val probably isn't the cutting edge of cool as it does seem to be populated by either hooray henrys or les bronzés qui font du ski but baring in mind there are plenty of rich kids following the latest fad, none of them seemed to think that fad was snowboarding?
Having just come back from a week in Val d'Isere, it struck me how few snowboarders there were and how they all seem to be thirty odd plus.
i think the decline in snowboarding has more to do with the development of skis and the fact is got much cooler than it was in the late 90s. ive snowboarded for 25 years, skis were rubbish when i started and snowboarding was cool. i now look at skis and think theyre a much more versatile way of getting round the mountain and new fat skis even perform well in powder, tho still think a snowboard is better for the deep stuff. sort of wish i could ski now lol.
I just dug out an interesting stick from my attic
a 1998 Burton Supermodel 181 with leather Ride Team bindings
I got given it for a heli trip to Nepal that ended up not happening when the king sacked his government or something
Bizarrely I ended up renting a board in Mondolé from a Dino, who runs the snowboard museum: https://www.facebook.com/Museo-Italiano-dello-Snowboard-562178050472974/
He'd probably love your board!
Is it like trying to turn a tanker? My skis are 185!!!
going fast, floating high in powder, this was never an issue
I'd imagine that trying to spin it in the air would be interesting, but I never tried - it had a decent radius side cut
181 supermodel next to a 183 idiot
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C4efYRcWAAAetH0.jpg)
what is it, 181 midwide? Bit too big even for me, unless i unexpectedly put on a stone or two. I ride a stiff 168 mid wide and not sure i could cope with any more length (missus).
Innsbruck has its own resort reachable by suburban tram, plus you're within easy bus ride of Axamer Lizums or - as a last resort, Stubai Glacier if there's no snow anywhere else.
the mighty Plattsy has agreed to come to Slovakia with me
staying in one of Propaganda Snowboards' chalets in Jasna
Small axe for a big oak...
All good conditions in Scotland at the moment, high pressure in place right now, then more snow coming next week. get here...
Heading up to Glencoe this eve for two days, just got to get work out of the way :bounce:
Thanks guys
2 weeks in Font with the family later in the year
Score much fresh?
we had some of the best on piste riding I have ever come across - quite a bit of grin-stretching carving was cranked out
I'm keen to go back
Got any more info on Jasna lagers? Starting to research for next year but it's always good to get first hand experience :) any good for beginners, wife and 4 year old have only had about 5 days on, and more importantly is it cheap lol.
We went to Kranjska-Gora a few weeks ago which was great, very cheap, great for beginners but limited for me, and all slopes were tree lined pistes with very very limited off-piste and a non existent board park.
The family are really keen to go back but I was hoping for something a little better. Defo couldn't afford a typical French resort though. Did I mention it needs to be cheap?
Looks like a pretty significant dump, and cold. Enjoy. Jealous.
Cheers for the advice, it's really appreciated. Tbh the little 'un (4 year old) smashed it with skiing including nailing fast button lifts. It's more the wife I'm concerned about lol, she could only relax on big quiet slopes.
What was the resort like? Friendly/snobby/party-knobs?
Did it cost a fortune?
Getting excited for another trip already and it's a year away ::)
Anyone know of any good tree skiing in the Oetztal valley?
Cheers for the advice, it's really appreciated. Tbh the little 'un (4 year old) smashed it with skiing including nailing fast button lifts. It's more the wife I'm concerned about lol, she could only relax on big quiet slopes.Can't add much to what Lagers said. Only that I ate out one night at a locals bar/restaurant.
What was the resort like? Friendly/snobby/party-knobs?
Did it cost a fortune?
Getting excited for another trip already and it's a year away ::)
Anyone know of any good tree skiing in the Oetztal valley?
Can't think of any offhand, and I've been there the last few winters. In general the sides of the main valley below the treeline are really steep. There are a few tiny bits of off-piste with trees at the top of Kühtai, either side of the stream coming down from the big dam, but that's about it.
Lagers and I also had lunch on the last day in a nice looking locals restaurant. Big rack of ribs €9.
Cheers for the advice, it's really appreciated. Tbh the little 'un (4 year old) smashed it with skiing including nailing fast button lifts. It's more the wife I'm concerned about lol, she could only relax on big quiet slopes.
What was the resort like? Friendly/snobby/party-knobs?
Did it cost a fortune?
Getting excited for another trip already and it's a year away ::)
Anyone know of any good tree skiing in the Oetztal valley?
Can't think of any offhand, and I've been there the last few winters. In general the sides of the main valley below the treeline are really steep. There are a few tiny bits of off-piste with trees at the top of Kühtai, either side of the stream coming down from the big dam, but that's about it.
So it's a skill compensator then. I might give one a go if my current board ever dies, but it's showing no signs of doing so at present, and I've never had any issues with my riding like you describe*. Glad you had a good trip.
*(i.e. I'm not a punter)
I'd give you a go, but it's probably still a bit small for your requirements? It's 160 standard width.
Needs to snow a lot before 9 Jan. I'm due some powder.
Needs to snow a lot before 9 Jan. I'm due some powder.
got a trip booked?
Just realised that http://www.steepscotland.info has photos I can link!
Scott Muir's (no not him, another one) brainchild.
Loads of friends have said that they were surprised how easily they made the transition from board to skis.
Nice. Terrain looks like halfway between Alpine and Scottish.
Nice. Terrain looks like halfway between Alpine and Scottish.
Keen for a good winter, scored a golden duck in Scottish skiing last winter, compared to the great winter before..
I had great days that winter, highlight, as above, plus actually doing some amazing stuff in Glen Clova!
I have now mountain biked, bouldered, winter climbed, skied, road biked, trad climbed and done a hill run there. Doing a road race there in November, all that is left is to get the SUP out and do the river.
Not selling it to me! :)
(I'll be using a gimp ball next time)
Same feeling as my old race board on hard boots, but nicer when skidding turns.
Same feeling as my old race board on hard boots, but nicer when skidding turns.
I miss mine. Day after a big dump of snow, when the fresh snow has been groomed and is like sorbet, carving on that stuff is too much fun. Bindings were a crap design and after being fixed half a dozen times i had to abandon it, as they couldn't be replaced.
proper mountain terrain in deeply unsuitable soft boots that couldn't kick steps,
You are welcome to come and have a look at mine (probably not your size)
I have a chance of heading up to Scotland for a couple of days
looks like there may be some snow
I assume the weekend will be busy, so was thinking of heading up Sunday night and sliding Monday and Tuesday
West looking best at the moment. I haven't ever been to Nevis and haven't ridden Glencoe for nearly 30 yrs.
I know there isn't much recent data to go on, but does Nevis have bigger queues?
How are they both for sleeping in the van at the car park?
Any advice other than wait and see what the weather does?
Not looking affa bonnie the noo lagers.
Looks like it might be improving a wee bit over the next couple of weeks though. Depends on freezing level....
I've had another fantastic week in Jasna.
I'll write more when I get some time.
In the meantime, it looks like the Freeride event is going ahead later this week. This should give people a good idea of what is on offer there. The event takes place on the most accessible face - there are plenty of other slopes available.
https://www.jasnaadrenalin.sk/en/
That just from Colorado, or whole of US?
Yeah it’s grim stats from skiing/boarding/snow-mobiling. Seems the activities get more and more popular and the deaths happen every year despite all the improvements in information and technology.
Makes dieting for 9b look safe...
That just from Colorado, or whole of US?
Would be interesting to know if there were actually more deaths overall in snow sports, or just an increase in line with participation.
The average skier death in CO is a thirty-seven years old experienced male skier wearing a helmet who loses control on an intermediate, groomed run and hits a tree. The majority of deaths — 54 percent — occurred on blue, groomed runs, while 31 percent were on expert trails. The increase in the number of people who wear helmets hasn’t resulted in fewer fatalities.
I had some turns in powder at Ringinglow last week. More than I manage most years so up already! My Dad has booked for March but looks doubtful.
Yeah, not good. You got out touring? What area are you in now?
My new snowboard is in the post... Guess I need snow shoes too! Anyone got any recommendations?
Looks like absolutely nowhere has any snowshoes in stock ::)
A couple of tennis rackets.Looks like absolutely nowhere has any snowshoes in stock ::)
Have you tried making some? (plywood - some slots for some straps. Maybe the odd nail/screw sticking out etc.. or something more elaborate with some small nailed on wooden battens for grip etc..) Bet they would work fine for just tramping back up a slope with a board.... (ie not a mission critical 20mile do or die trip across the frozen wastes of wherever).
In University (early 90's) I made a pair of plywood 'footprints' to stiffen a softer soled walking boot to take a solid (not clip on) crampon. sandwiched between the boot and the crampon they worked pretty well (only came off once - in a non critical moment). I probably wouldnt do it again, but it worked!
A couple of tennis rackets.
Might it feel like it now, but was probably the best option in the long run.
Ace.
Has anyone skied in Norway much? Thinking of it for Easter family trip, possible Geilo or Hemsedal. Kids will be in lessons for a bit, concerned language might be an issue, and expensive eating.
We're on our first family snow holiday.
Our ten year old, at the end of his second day on an actual snowy mountain asked "can skiing ever be as joyful as snowboarding?"
He went on to enthuse about the joy of doing simple turns on a board.
Lovely.
Somewhat analogously a week ago I had both sons (now 14 and 22) out on splitboards in the Whistler backcountry together for the first time to celebrate son #1's birthday with a tiny cake+candle in a glacier bowl and then a hilarious descent of the sorta-steep Husume couloir where both were getting air off side hits as if it were a blue run in the resort (I am side-slipping and clutching an ice axe ready to arrest in the same terrain). Nice to see them both sharing the pure enjoyment of riding especially as son #2 has just exited a harrowing few years in the cliquey world of slopestyle competitions/ training.
Anyone up on current board options? I bought mine with a student loan in 1999 so it's about time. Not riding park or switch, prefer off piste if possible, but realistically 80% piste cruising with skiers. So probably something towards the directional freeride end.
Deals that caught my eye on Burton Skeleton Key and Jones Frontier. A lot of the other brands Ive never heard of... any insight appreciated.
Jones can sometimes be a bit *too* full on
Just picked up a Jones Solution Splitboard but not had chance to use it
QuoteJones can sometimes be a bit *too* full on
Can you expand on that? Assuming you mean a bit stiff, for charging hard at speed etc? At the mo the Burton Skeleton key looks to have the better reviews but the Jones Frontier seems solid even if their 'budget' model. Much better looking too.
Says £459 for the Skeleton Key?
Also the review seems to indicate that it loses grip on hard/icy terrain, how'd you find that?
Just bought a splitty... frothing now, anyone else yearning for turning?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pn-VV8JMgiM
Give me a shout if you're heading north for splitboard fun times!
Up for some splitter action! Got a week in Tignes booked in March.. sans family and back country top of the agenda. Frothing doesn't come close.
I've not got a splitty, but happy to associate with them when out touring! Like andy_e, shout if you are up. Going to be in Les Arcs last week of Jan, Alps are looking like mid Feb conditions already, hope it holds.
What did you get?
got another transceiver and shovel and we have started doing rescue practice
Give me a shout if you're heading north for splitboard fun times!
Will do - are you in Inverness? Keep me posted on conditions...
Avvy gear is next on the list - what did you go for?
Quote from: lagerstarfishWhat did you get?
Amplid Surf Shuttle 157.
Avvy gear is next on the list - what did you go for?
second hand Ortovox Zoom + . It's a massive improvement on my old F1
you are welcome to borrow transceiver/shovel/axe/probe from me before you sort your own
https://beaconreviews.com/ is very useful if you are looking at buying an older/used transceiver
Also people who carry no repair kit. I now always carry as a minimum a decent multitool, 3 or 4 cable ties, about 6 ft of gaffer tape wound onto a stub of a pencil, about 30cm of thin wire, some cord and a pen knife. Learned the hard way when I've lost the heel piece off a pair of crap hire touring skis coming up from Loch Avon Basin to the top of t-Sneachda, and it's a long slow walk back down carrying skis, even on a nice day. Won't make that mistake again.
Also really enjoyed Serre Chevallier in the past too. Bit cheaper, but not super high.
borrowed an old transceiver for a mate to use, do I carry the decent one, or does he???
Looks amazing. Are there many of these ghost resorts?
Actually had the chance to be in Japan this week, but had a bunch of reasons not to go.
Cheers, would love to go but unlikely unless part of a bigger trip. Is it mostly overcast/ flat light?
Get a second decent one :worms:
Bad news is all the off piste is totally fucked due to high rain followed by a freeze last week.Yeah, it was a bit heavy, but we were only going as low as the Chalet chair, so snow still reasonable. I would have been a lot happier on a snowboard! The pistes were horrible the day after the rain, but softened up again.
Just bought a splitty... frothing now, anyone else yearning for turning?
We are looking at somewhere high in Austria (mainly so kids can do full day lessons) for Easter. Pref with base about 1400/1500.
Duncan - I've been on Burton Step Ins/ Ons for 20+ years. Yes you need specific boots. Union seem to be the choice of the strap binding connoisseurs.
I would be tempted to give the EST a try to make the most of the channel. I’ve not used them, but the benefits seems worthwhile - no bolt plate underfoot so thinner base, more sensitive/ consistent board contact. Greater adjustability in angle and centering with no detents. Less leverage on bolts so shouldn’t need to be cranked down as hard.
Channel is great but be careful only to use correct bolts - standard ones are too long and will dent your base, ask me how I know. I do have to crank my back foot really tight but that’s with standard plates.
Not sure where you're based Duncan, but I called into 'The Sick and the Wrong' shop in Keswick when I was up there over christmas and tried a load on. Not the easiest thing to buy online without trying on.
Just need a lid now (35 years without one and think I've chanced it enough!) and I'm ready to tear down Alp d'Huez next month - Absolutely frothing!!
I set quite a big slab off once, just the other side of the netting at the edge of the piste
plus mates with same and the skills to use
That avoids triggering, but you still need to think about getting hit by slides from above.
That avoids triggering, but you still need to think about getting hit by slides from above.
This popped up on my feed last week.. https://youtu.be/RLX_PaCWMT8?si=X7YZ7v0UO22GyZIQ.
Someone recommended the book "staying alive in avalanche terrain" elsewhere on UKB and I think there was a simplified version that was released later?
Looks like it's been dumping down in the Alps the last week and more to come:
https://wepowder.com/en/villages/alpe-dhuez#pic-blanc
That avoids triggering, but you still need to think about getting hit by slides from above.
This popped up on my feed last week.. https://youtu.be/RLX_PaCWMT8?si=X7YZ7v0UO22GyZIQ.
this came up just before we went the other week - a descent I've done a few times. I thought it looked like an obvious risk, but by the time you are down there its a bit of effort to climb back out. I played it very safe due to similar conditions (and having kids with me most of the time)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZ2kbdfU6g8&list=FL2H2J-adiB6DyYO1Ttt4LHw&index=1&t=112s
My brother was there with some relatives about 30 years ago for a week at Easter. Their flight was one of the first to arrive on the Saturday, and they got to their hotel about midday at which point it started dumping, so hard they closed the road up. It then proceeded to snow pretty much non-stop for the entire week, so no other coaches could get in, and they had the entire resort pretty much to the few coaches that got in, as they could not get the road open again.
Trouble was he was just a novice skier in a time of skinny straight skis, and had a miserable time struggling to ski in poor vis and deep powder, praying for the snow to stop so they could ski on some sunny pistes. I think they managed to reopen the road the day before they left.....
one of my mates is talking about La Grave... Had a quick look and it looks amazing! Has anyone been?
:great:one of my mates is talking about La Grave... Had a quick look and it looks amazing! Has anyone been?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkinG08IoKk&t=593s
Nope - getting a bus from Grenoble but apparently there is a direct shuttle bus to Les Deux Alpes on Wednesdays (and possibly Thursdays) for €15 return and you can access from there. Would have to get to Alpe d'Huez for 08:45 but the first lift at Oz goes at 8am (we're 1 minute from that lift) so should be good for that - good warmup run too ;-)
Alternatively you can get a helicopter for €70 :doubt:
Probably find a bit more gen in resort...
Tignes for a week of splitboarding. :2thumbsup:
Though if there's enough powder in resort, happy to just hit that all day long. We'll see. Might do a day off the back of Saint Foy, we'll see.
Looks good at the moment, but we'll see. Very cold it seems, so nothing melting, but seems there maybe some high winds over the weekend.
Nope - getting a bus from Grenoble but apparently there is a direct shuttle bus to Les Deux Alpes on Wednesdays (and possibly Thursdays) for €15 return and you can access from there. Would have to get to Alpe d'Huez for 08:45 but the first lift at Oz goes at 8am (we're 1 minute from that lift) so should be good for that - good warmup run too ;-)
Alternatively you can get a helicopter for €70 :doubt:
Probably find a bit more gen in resort...
Hows it going Duncan.... hit the road tomorrow morning... :bounce:
Matched ability and psych group - can't emphasise enough how great this was!
Skeleton Key is an absolute weapon in powder, through the trees and on toeside groomers...
Skeleton key being so set back means that heelside carves tend to either butter if pushed too hard or slide out
Sounds amazing!QuoteMatched ability and psych group - can't emphasise enough how great this was!
That is the dream and so hard to achieve, had a couple of days ever like this.QuoteSkeleton Key is an absolute weapon in powder, through the trees and on toeside groomers...
Glad you liked it :2thumbsup: Felt pretty confident recommending it (and especially at that price :punk: ) , really fun board! It always amazes me how stable at speed it is despite not being very stiff, and almost immune to catching edges. Assumed this was taper at first, but now pretty sure it’s due to the early rise on the nose lifting the contact points up, so they don’t engage unless you want them to.QuoteSkeleton key being so set back means that heelside carves tend to either butter if pushed too hard or slide out
Hmm, that’s interesting as I occasionally have the opposite problem of heel judder, i.e. locking in too well and tight until the edge jumps out suddenly. After reading up I had put it down to technique but setback is a thought. I’m riding at reference width, other idea was to set the bindings slightly closer to toeside. Were you getting any heel drag?
Thinking a bit more - I don’t think it’s the setback. The stance is centred on the sidecut so on edge it shouldn’t be noticeable as it’s only the taper making it directional. Whereas in powder the massive difference in surface area between nose and tail kick in, and relative to that, and the stiffness, the stance is well setback. Best of both worlds!Would be interesting to compare with my old setup - think probably it's just the fact that the toeside edge is so good that heelside feels like it lacks wheas it's actually pretty good. Did think maybe angling bindings further forward might give a bit more bite but never got round to testing - might just have to go out again next week ;D
How were the bindings?
Did think maybe angling bindings further forward might give a bit more bite
did get a bit of gear lust over my mates Amplid splitty which at 164 and stiff as fuck looked ace and went like a rocket on the downhills...
https://wepowder.com/en/villages/flaine#grands-vans
https://wepowder.com/en/villages/flaine#grands-vans
If you register on wepowder you get a free trial of the 14 day forecast if you want to peep further.
Galpinos, hopefully they open Gers bowl, and Lindars lift, some great terrain off the sides there. And watch for limestone crevasses!
And bizarre afternoon fog in Vernant bowl.
Worth reading the crazy history of the place.
https://alastairphilipwiper.com/blog/flaine-france#:~:text=Built%20in%20the%2060s%20by,in%20France%2C%20a%20prototype%20for
https://en.flaine.com/artistic-architectural-heritage
Next Easter is later in the month, but Sheffield schools will be off for the first two weeks in April.
Had an amazing week!......
It seemed like it was a popular week in Flaine for climbers with Leo Houlding and Steve McClure both being there.