Ski Adapters Allow For More Mobility On Trail

Sun., April 7, 1996

Michael Hodgson & Bryan Chitwood Special To Outdoors

Product: Alpine Trekker

Description: Lightweight (2 lbs., 9 ounces per pair) ski touring adapters with a DIN-standard binding interface designed to allow free-heel access to the backcountry using traditional alpine gear. Made of aluminum, steel and nylon. One size fits all fits boot soles from 240 to 355 cm.

Pro: Installs very easily, clamping onto standard alpine ski boots in a snap, and then clicking securely into standard alpine bindings. The boot cage is fully adjustable using a telescopic tubing and is compatible with all major brands of alpine boots and bindings. Comes with a retention strap to prevent inadvertent ski loss should you and your skis separate for any reason. Two levels of heel elevators come in very useful when climbing, minimizing calf stress and reducing fatigue. Built-in return spring keeps ski tails snapping back into place and prevents the binding from flopping around when strapped to the back of a pack during a ripping descent.

Con: Unlike a randonee set-up, the Alpine Trekker is for uphill and traversing use only, meaning you’ll have to remove and then carry the unit when shredding powder on the downhill. Also, with the Trekker attached to your boot and then into a downhill ski binding, your foot sits approximately one inch above the top cap of the ski - a higher balance point that does take some getting used to. Using the Trekker for any downhill action will break it.

Comments: This is a simple and elegant product that offers alpine / downhill skiers free-heel mobility and access to the backcountry. It is important to realize, however, that with this increase freedom comes increased responsibility. Do not venture into the backcountry without adequate avalanche awareness, snow safety and survival skills, and first aid knowledge. You will also want to add a pair of climbing skins to your set-up and, if you are climbing very steep terrain, the optional Trekking Crampon.

Suggested Retail: $180

Company: Backcountry Access, 4949 N. Broadway, #139, Boulder, CO 80304; (800) 670-8735.

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