Touring skis for beginners: The right choice for your entry into ski touring

Of course, you don't have to spend money on a whole set of ski touring equipment straight away. Especially if you don't know yet whether the sport suits you at all. In many ski resorts, you can rent a high-quality touring ski set for beginners - for example in one of the numerous INTERSPORT Rent shops. The advantage: professional advice is included free of charge!

If you want to buy rather than rent, you should think about a few things in advance - for example, what kind of ski tours you want to go on. For which terrain and for which requirements will you mainly need your skis?

Touring skis should be light and manoeuvrable, which is why they are usually shorter than classic alpine skis. The optimum length is around 5 to 15 centimetres shorter than your height. Another important factor in determining the right size for your touring skis is your weight. If you are lighter, is better with shorter models. Also note that the length of your skis also influences your skiing behaviour:

• Longer skis = more stable on the descent
• Shorter skis = more manoeuvrable when climbing, easier to steer when descending

Equipment tip: If you are unsure which model you should rent for your first "taster tour", we recommend medium-length touring skis. Skis that are too narrow and light will make the descent more difficult, whereas skis that are too wide and heavy will quickly become tiring on the ascent.

1. Weight

A lightweight ski makes the ascent easier, but requires a little more technique on the descent. As already mentioned, the medium weight class is recommended for beginners. This will keep you controlled and flexible.

2. Width & waist

• 85-95 mm: All-rounder for beginners and mixed terrain
• 95-105 mm: more flotation in deep snow for freeriders, but more strenuous on the ascent
• Under 85 mm: light for long ascents

Touring skis are wider at the front and back than in the centre. This waist width plays a role in the skiing behaviour:

• Stronger waist: the ski turns more easily, but is more unstable in changing snow conditions.
• Smaller waist: These touring skis are often easier to handle for beginners.

3. Material

Most models consist of wooden core constructions made of poplar, beech or spruce, combined with carbon, fibreglass and plastic. These materials offer stability and a smooth ride.

Cost-intensive ultralight models for experienced tourers use carbon-reinforced wood cores or very light paulownia wood cores to save weight.

4. Binding

Pin bindings (also known as tech bindings) are the standard today. They are lighter, efficient on the ascent and equipped with modern safety releases. If you want to be comfortable, we recommend having a suitable pin binding fitted to your touring skis for beginners.

Frame bindings are usually cheaper and also work with some alpine boots. However, they are heavier and less comfortable when walking.

5. Skins & climbing aids

Synthetic nylon skins are robust, easy to care for and offer very good grip. This is ideal for beginners. Mixed skins and mohair skins are more suitable for advanced skiers and professionals. They glide smoother, but are also more sensitive and more expensive.

For climbing aids, 2-stage systems are ideal for beginners. You will only need 3-stage variants when you are climbing really steep slopes.

In a beginner's ski touring course, you will also learn how to use safety equipment correctly. Always keep yourself informed about the current avalanche warning level!

More information about avalanche equipment

Experienced skiers have an advantage when touring. They know balance, technique and feel. But you can also start with little experience on the slopes: many ski resorts have their own ascent tracks for ski touring beginners. There you can practise walking with skins safely and improve step by step.

Once you have successfully mastered the first ascent tracks, you will find a large selection of different levels of difficulty in many ski touring areas. There is something for you as a ski touring beginner almost everywhere.

Of course, a lot of ski touring depends on the right equipment - you are now well informed about this. Another factor that can make a huge difference is the right technique.

Do you also need expert advice on your ski touring technique? Here you go: we recommend our 10 best tips on how to improve your ski touring technique!

Ski touring sounds more strenuous than it is. If you have a solid basic level of fitness - from hiking, cycling or running, for example - you can start with beginner tours without any problems. The key is to consciously keep your pace low and take regular breaks. The movement is steady, easy on the joints and trains the legs, core and endurance.

The basic equipment includes touring skis for beginners with bindings, skins, poles, suitable ski touring boots and a rucksack with safety and avalanche equipment (transceiver, shovel, probe). It is also important to wear suitable, breathable clothing that wicks away sweat and keeps you warm. A helmet, gloves and goggles are just as important as drinks and a small snack.

The most common mistake is to start out too ambitiously. Clothing that is too warm and a lack of breaks also quickly lead to exhaustion. Also pay attention to the weather and avalanche conditions. Plan your route in advance and never rely solely on digital tools. Start early enough to reach your destination before the early winter dawn.

Yes, a course is the best way to learn technique and safety from scratch. Experienced guides will show you how to ascend efficiently, set kick turn steps, ski down correctly and recognise avalanche risks. You will also receive valuable tips on equipment and tour planning. Even a one-day course increases your routine enormously and ensures a relaxed introduction to ski touring.