Expert Advice And Inspiration

If you’re looking to buy a snowboard you’ve come to the right place. With so many options to choose from narrowing down your selection can be tricky so we’ve created this easy to use snowboard buying guide.

It is deeply engrained within our human nature, especially in those who partake in our adrenaline-fuelled sports, not to follow the path set out for us. However, on the mountains and without the proper knowledge, ducking the rope and leaving the piste to find new and exciting routes presents a unique set of challenges and dangers. 

Following our hugely successful The North Face Avalanche Awareness Lecture Series, British Mountain Guide and Head of Snowsports at Glenmore Lodge, Andy Townsend, tells us how to prep for the season, how to spot hazards and what safety equipment we need on the mountain:

With great conditions in much of the Alps and more fresh snow forecast this week, Dynastar ambassador Giles Lewis from The Development Centre, Val d’Isere, gives us his top tips on how to ski powder compared with firm snow, and how to make the most of fresh snow.

If you’re boldly exploring the backcountry this winter, avalanche awareness and the correct safety equipment are lifesavers in the event of an emergency in unmarked and unpatrolled territory. Stay safer off-piste this snow season, with these five backcountry skiing and snowboarding essentials:

The Scottish winter isn’t always hard and grim! The winter scenery will take your breath away and make you glad you made the effort.

Rab have been making sleeping bags for over 30 years and are constantly evolving and  re-designing their ideas despite having created some of the best bags in the industry to date. 2014 is no exception and this season has seen  updates to classic models as well as new innovations across the board that promise to offer a greater level of performance than ever before.

Thermoball, The North Face’s revolutionary insulation alternative, started with a problem. Goose down is widely recognised as the warmest and lightest insulation available, yet once wet its insulation properties are less than efficient. Whilst synthetic insulations, performs better in wet condition, is heavier and less compactable. 

Also known as randonnée, alpine touring is increasing in popularity. If you’re a skier making the jump to backcountry or alpine touring your boots are as important as ever.  

MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System; a technology created in 2001 that is now a world leader in head and neck protection through years of medical technology and research.

In winter, even an easy route in Scotland can transform into an alpine epic (we recommend taking a winter mountaineering course). Here are 13 tips to help keep you safe walking and climbing in Scotland:

Beat the dreaded ski lift queues with our top tips and hints. 

When it comes to ski boots, achieving the perfect balance of comfort and performance is a fine art.

Each element from sock to shell works as part of a complex system that optimises comfort, support and performance. By taking the time to customise your footwear, you can eliminate pain and enjoy superior control over your skis.