Ski Magazine

What to expect, how to prepare, and what type of skis to click into before dropping into these legendary trails. The snow-covered summit of KT-22 in Olympic Valley stands majestically against a backdrop of crisp blue skies. The peak, blanketed in fresh snow, sparkles in the winter sunlight, with sharp ridges and jagged contours accentuating its rugged beauty. The surrounding mountain slopes, covered in thick snow, create a pristine winter landscape that stretches out into the distance.

Ever since the first XTRATUF boot arrived on a spray-soaked deck in Alaska more than 75 years ago, the brand has been an essential partner for those who live and work there. Now, from the icy waters of the Bering Sea to the far beyond, people all over the world turn to XTRATUF for gear that performs in harsh conditions—just like they do. When it comes to versatility, the Ankle Deck Boot (ADB) is a trusted option for offshore anglers, professional guides, and boaters of all kinds.

If you can ski almost anywhere but don't always feel in control, these skills can help take your skiing to the next level. There’s a point in every skier’s progression when simply getting down the mountain stops being the goal. You’re comfortable on groomers, you can link turns, and maybe you’ve started venturing onto steeper terrain, dealing with icy patches, or following your ski buddies into places that feel just a little outside your comfort zone.

Ski culture is, for better and worse, inextricably intertwined with drinking. So much so that the activity has its own designation, “après-ski,” a French portmanteau that both separates and elevates it from every other kind of drinking. It’s also rare in being socially acceptable at any time of day, as long as it occurs after at least one run on the hill. It’s hard to say exactly why we skiers are, by nature, also drinkers, but I think the simplest explanation is that we like to have fun.

Since Airbnb entered the ski scene years ago, the idea of true "ski-in, ski-out" has lost meaning. We're here to set the record straight. (Photo: Shawn O'Connor / Aspen Hospitality ) There are plenty of overused phrases in the ski travel industry: “world-class terrain” and “mountain views” chief among them. But none are as misleading as “ski-in, ski-out.” It’s a term plastered across hotel websites and touted by vacation rental listings, even those that are a 15-minute walk from the slopes.

As a longtime gear tester for SKI, I get asked about all things skis, boots, bindings, etc. Folks tend to want to pick my brain about new things to try, innovations that excite, and get a sense for where the market is going. In response, my first instinct is usually to ask, “Have you ever tried a full rocker ski?” Most skiers reply: Pretty cool, but that’s not for me. I get it.

On February 17, a devastating backcountry avalanche killed three guides and six clients near Truckee, California. On August 12, the State of California slapped the guiding company that oversaw the trip with $151,000 in fines. The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) said that Blackbird Mountain Guides (BMG) violated seven workplace rules, including failure to identify an avalanche and properly train staff. Cal/OSHA sent Outside a copy of its investigation.

Suzie Dundas is a travel writer, editor, and author whose work focuses on travel, the outdoors, and public lands. A former political staffer and campaigner turned tree-hugger, she's written for Afar, SFGate, BBC, Food & Wine, Thrillist, and the SF Chron among others. She's the former Tahoe and National Parks editors at SFGate, with a B.A. in government and politics and an M.A. in media and public communications.

Snow Pass and the Snow Triple Play are bringing new levels of affordability to the megapass game. (Photo: Courtesy of Belleayre Mountain) SKI spoke with the parent company of Snow Partners’ CEO and Chief Marketing Officer to understand why the Snow Pass, a new product, deserves a spot on the megapass roster. Earlier this year, we reported on a new megapass entering the market, debuting this season for $399.99.

Buying new skis should be exciting, not stressful. But it’s easy to let hype, habit, or bad timing steer you toward the wrong pair. Here are the most common mistakes skiers make when shopping for new sticks—and how to avoid them. Mistake #1: Shopping During Ski Season (Or Right Before) More than any other sport, skiing rewards planning six months ahead. Season passes and gear go on sale in spring and summer—not once the leaves start turning.