Dynastar Ambassador Betony Garner, who is based in Chamonix, France, explains the benefits of pre-season training and how you can get in shape for your next skiing or snowboarding trip:
The call of fresh untouched powder, pristine pillow lines, and majestic tree runs, is all the motivation you need to start exploring the backcountry but with the added risks and danger its important to have the right equipment, and know how to use it. This guide will take you through the backcountry basics, what it means, and what gear you need to get started. Our stores have a wide range of backcountry equipment, so if in doubt, visit us in store and get expert advice from our knowledgeable staff.
Whether you are a seasoned backcountry skier, hiking to ski an untouched face or you are simply just starting to explore the backcountry in order to find a new adventure in mountains, one thing is for sure, your outerwear needs to stand up to the challenging conditions found in the backcountry. To help you be more prepared we've put together a little list of brands we think you should look at when choosing your next jacket or pants.
If you're looking for somewhere new to ski or a change from the big resorts, there are hundreds of smaller resorts across Europe with something a little bit different to offer. Here are five of our favourite undiscovered resorts:
We hit up our friends at GB Snowsport to find out what the athletes are listening to when they’re not busy winning medals – and they didn’t disappoint. Always wanted to know what’s happening in an athlete’s head? Now’s your chance.
Dynastar Ambassador and TDCski Coach Giles Lewis, based in Val d’Isere, France, shares some of his top tips for optimising technique, performance and enjoyment:
Interchangeable lenses are becoming a common feature on more and more goggles. Light levels can change very quickly on the mountain and the effect that has on visibility can be dramatic.
Indoor climbing is an easily accessible activity which is fun and highly beneficial for experienced mountaineers and first-time climbers alike (whether you’re planning on eventually rock climbing in the great outdoors or not). Gareth Davidson from Snow+Rock tells us what to bring and what to expect from our first session on the indoor wall.
Choosing alpine touring skis can be tricky. Here's everything you need to know before you buy
While there is no perfect formula or perfect height, the right ski poles can improve your performance, giving you a more responsive and enjoyable ski. Bear in mind that sizing will be personal to you, too long or heavy for your skiing style and they’ll likely get in the way, too short and you’re more likely to position yourself too far forward, throwing you off balance.
For fast and light adventures you need to carry the right gear. Gear that will support your trip without weighing you down. Here we get the lowdown on the essentials and some expert tips on the extras to pack.
Your bindings are your connection to your skis, transferring your movements from muscle to slope so it’s important to match your bindings to your skis, ski boots, and style for the best performance.
A backpack carries everything you need to stay alive in the backcountry. Choose yours wisely

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