If you’re thinking about taking your all-mountain skis into the backcountry, here’s the deal: while they’re solid on groomed runs, they’re not the best choice for uphill climbs or tight, tricky terrain. Why? They’re heavier, longer, and less efficient for the demands of backcountry touring.
Instead, shorter and lighter options like Snowfeet short skis - available in sizes from 65 cm to 120 cm - are designed specifically for this kind of adventure. They’re easier to carry, more energy-efficient on climbs, and super nimble in tight spots. Plus, they work with regular winter boots, saving you money on specialized gear.
Quick Takeaway: If you want less hassle and more fun in the backcountry, ditch the heavier skis and go for something light and compact. Snowfeet short skis might just be your new best friend.
How to Choose Alpine Touring Skis
1. All-Mountain Skis
Traditional all-mountain skis are built for stability and carving at resorts. They shine on groomed runs but can fall short when it comes to backcountry touring.
Weight and Portability
All-mountain skis are generally heavier and longer than touring-specific skis. This extra weight can wear you out faster during climbs. Plus, lugging around a bulkier setup on uneven terrain or through tight spots can be a hassle.
Uphill Efficiency
These skis often have more surface area in contact with the snow during ascents, which means more friction and more effort. Their wider waist - great for stability on groomed runs - can make navigating narrow tracks tricky. On steep and winding routes, they demand careful handling to stay on course.
Downhill Performance
On hard-packed slopes, all-mountain skis are in their element. But in the unpredictable snow of the backcountry, they can feel sluggish. Their design prioritizes carving and stability at speed, which doesn’t always translate well to soft, variable conditions where quick adjustments are key.
Maneuverability
The longer length of all-mountain skis means they need more room to turn. In tight spots - like tree runs or narrow couloirs - this can make quick, precise movements harder. Recovering from a slip or navigating tricky lines in uneven snow may take more effort than you'd like.
These challenges highlight the need for a more nimble and lightweight option. Up next, we’ll dive into how Snowfeet* short skis tackle these issues head-on.
2. Snowfeet* Short Skis (Skiblades 65/99/120 cm and WALKSKI 100 cm)
Snowfeet* is changing the game for backcountry touring with its compact and highly portable short skis.
Weight and Portability
Snowfeet* short skis come in four sizes - 65 cm, 99 cm, 120 cm, and the WALKSKI 100 cm model. These skis are built to be lightweight and easy to carry, making them a great choice for multi-day adventures through challenging terrain. The 65 cm Skiblades, for instance, are small enough to fit inside your backpack, while even the 120 cm version feels light compared to traditional setups. For those who need a balance of portability and stability, the WALKSKI 100 cm hits the sweet spot: long enough for solid control yet compact enough to strap onto your pack without hassle.
This focus on portability means you can move efficiently through rugged areas without feeling weighed down, whether you're trekking uphill or stashing them away for a hike.
Uphill Efficiency
When it comes to climbing, Snowfeet* short skis excel. Their sleek, minimal design reduces drag, making uphill travel smoother and less tiring. The shorter lengths also make tricky kick-turns on steep switchbacks much easier to handle. You’ll find yourself moving with better rhythm and conserving energy for the fun part - the descent.
This efficiency is particularly helpful in tough backcountry conditions, where every bit of saved effort counts. The reduced drag and improved maneuverability are game-changers for long ascents.
Downhill Performance
Don’t let their compact size fool you - these skis pack a punch on the way down. The shorter length gives you quick, precise control, which is a big advantage when snow conditions are unpredictable. Whether you're navigating wind-packed crust or shifting snow, you can adapt instantly without waiting for a longer ski to catch up.
In tight spaces, Snowfeet* short skis shine. They’re quick through narrow chutes, agile in dense trees, and forgiving on uneven backcountry snow. Compared to traditional all-mountain skis from brands like Volkl or Head - designed more for groomed slopes - Snowfeet* short skis are built for the off-piste challenges. The 120 cm version, in particular, offers a solid balance: stable enough for aggressive skiing but still nimble enough to keep touring fun and not exhausting.
Maneuverability
The compact design of Snowfeet* skis makes them incredibly easy to handle in tricky spots. Whether you're threading through a narrow couloir, weaving through trees, or tackling a steep technical descent, these skis respond instantly. If you catch an edge or need to make a quick adjustment, the shorter length helps you recover smoothly and confidently.
Another bonus? The learning curve is much shorter. While mastering longer skis can take seasons, most people feel comfortable on Snowfeet* skis within just a few hours. This ease of use makes them a great option for introducing friends to backcountry touring or for experienced skiers who want a more relaxed, enjoyable ride.
Pros and Cons Comparison
When it comes to backcountry touring, the choice of gear can make or break your experience. Efficient uphill travel and precise control are key, and deciding between traditional all-mountain skis and Snowfeet short skis means weighing the pros and cons of each option. Let’s break it down.
Traditional all-mountain skis are built with resort skiing in mind. They’re typically longer (160–180 cm) and have a heavier, more durable construction. This design provides excellent stability at high speeds and better flotation in deep powder. However, their bulk and weight can make backcountry touring more challenging, often requiring extra energy and the added expense of specialized touring bindings.
On the other hand, Snowfeet short skis are specifically designed with backcountry touring in mind. Their compact size - ranging from ultra-portable 65 cm Skiblades to the 100 cm WALKSKI - makes them incredibly versatile. These skis are lightweight and easy to carry, with some models even fitting into a backpack. Plus, Snowfeet short skis work with regular winter or snowboard boots, so you can skip the hassle and cost of dedicated ski boots and bindings.
Here’s a quick comparison to highlight the key differences:
| Feature | Traditional All-Mountain Skis | Snowfeet Short Skis |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Heavier, more tiring on climbs | Lightweight, easier uphill travel |
| Length | 160–180 cm | Compact: 65–120 cm options |
| Uphill Efficiency | Requires more effort | Optimized for climbing |
| Kick-Turn Ease | Harder on steep terrain | Quick and responsive |
| Portability | Bulky, needs vehicle transport | Fits in a backpack (65–99 cm models) |
| Learning Curve | Longer adjustment period | Easier to pick up |
| Boot Compatibility | Requires ski boots and bindings | Works with regular winter or snowboard boots |
| Setup Cost | Higher overall investment | Budget-friendly (some models around $690) |
| Maneuverability | Less agile | Highly responsive and nimble |
| Backcountry Performance | Great for open slopes, less ideal in tight spots | Excels in technical, narrow terrain |
Snowfeet offers a variety of short skis tailored for different needs. The Skiblades (65 cm and 99 cm) are perfect for ultra-portability, while the 120 cm Snowfeet Short Skis and the 100 cm WALKSKI provide a balance of control and efficiency.
While traditional all-mountain skis have their strengths - like stability and flotation in deep snow - they can feel cumbersome for backcountry touring. Snowfeet short skis step in where traditional skis fall short, offering unmatched portability, easy maneuverability, and a simpler setup. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just starting out, these skis make backcountry touring more accessible and enjoyable.
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Conclusion
Snowfeet* short skis bring a fresh twist to U.S. backcountry touring, standing out against traditional all-mountain skis. While brands like Rossignol, K2, and Salomon excel on resort slopes, they’re not designed to tackle the unique demands of backcountry terrain. Traditional skis are built with groomed runs in mind - not the unpredictable challenges of the backcountry.
What makes Snowfeet* short skis shine? Their lightweight design is a game-changer for uphill climbs, whether you’re navigating Colorado’s rugged backcountry or Utah’s Wasatch Range. With options like the ultra-portable 65 cm model, the balanced 99 cm, or the versatile 100 cm, some even compact enough to fit in a backpack, they’re made for convenience without sacrificing performance.
At $690 for the 120 cm model, Snowfeet* offers a complete touring setup that skips the need for pricey bindings and specialized ski boots. This streamlined design not only makes backcountry skiing more affordable but also removes some of the usual hassles, making it easier for more people to dive into the adventure.
Whether you’re weaving through Vermont’s dense trees, floating through powder in the Rockies, or tackling steep, technical lines in the Cascades, Snowfeet* short skis deliver control, portability, and simplicity. They’re built to handle the diverse and demanding terrain that defines backcountry skiing across the U.S. It’s all about making those wild, untouched slopes more accessible - and a lot more fun.
FAQs
Why are Snowfeet short skis better for backcountry touring than traditional all-mountain skis?
Why Snowfeet Short Skis Are a Game-Changer for Backcountry Touring
Snowfeet short skis bring some serious perks to backcountry touring compared to traditional all-mountain skis. For starters, their lightweight and compact design makes them super portable. You can toss them into a backpack - no need to deal with clunky gear or roof racks. Perfect for those spur-of-the-moment adventures or quick trips into the wild.
Their shorter length is another big win. It gives you better control and makes navigating tight trails, uneven terrain, or deep snow a breeze. Plus, they’re less tiring to use, which is great for beginners or anyone who values agility and ease of movement.
And here’s the kicker: Snowfeet short skis are a budget-friendly and easy-to-use alternative to traditional skis. They open up backcountry exploration to more people, making it a fun and approachable option for casual skiers or anyone looking for a simpler way to enjoy the slopes.
Can I use regular winter boots with Snowfeet short skis, and how does this make backcountry skiing easier and more affordable?
Yes, Snowfeet short skis are made to work with your regular winter boots. That means you can skip the pricey, specialized ski boots often needed for traditional skiing or snowboarding. This makes backcountry skiing easier on your wallet and more accessible.
Using your own winter boots doesn’t just save you money - it’s super convenient, too. You can switch between skiing and walking without any fuss. Plus, these short skis are lightweight and easy to carry, making them perfect for stress-free backcountry adventures.
How do Snowfeet short skis handle backcountry terrain like tight trees or steep descents?
Why Snowfeet Short Skis Shine in Backcountry Terrain
Snowfeet short skis are a game-changer for backcountry enthusiasts. Their compact design makes navigating tight tree runs and steep, technical descents feel almost effortless. Thanks to their small size, you can make quick, precise turns even in dense forests or on narrow trails - something that’s tough to pull off with longer, traditional skis.
But it’s not just about agility. These skis are super lightweight, which gives you better control and makes managing your speed on steep slopes a lot easier. That extra control doesn’t just make the ride more fun - it also adds a layer of safety when you're tackling tricky terrain. And let’s not forget their portability. Compared to traditional skis, Snowfeet models are easier to carry and incredibly versatile, making them an excellent pick for those who love exploring the backcountry.
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