Winter weather is slowly but surely making its way to the Palouse and since we have already had our first snow, more is likely on the way soon. While the snow and cold conditions make it difficult to do some of the outdoor activities we have all been accustomed to over the past half a year, it’s time to transition into winter activities. Being centrally located here in Pullman, we have a lot of opportunities to get outside and enjoy the winter while it’s here. [More]

This week’s Get to Know Your Gear segment will focus on Climbing Skins. What are Climbing Skins? – Climbing skins, also known as ski skins, are cross country skiing accessories which attach to cross country skis to restrict backward sliding of the skis. How do they work? – When the skins are attached to the skis, the fibers in contact with the snow lay flat when moving forward allowing for unrestricted forward movement.  Alternatively, when sliding backwards, the snow pushes against the grain of the fibers causing the skins to dig into the snow and hold the skis, and skier, in place. When should you use them? – Typically, climbing skins are only needed when venturing into areas with hills, switchbacks, or any type of ascent where momentum will not carry the skier to the top of the next hill.  While they are not always necessary to have on the skis, carrying climbing skins in a pack when cross country skiing is always advised. Now that you know what climbing skins are, when to use them, and how they work, you are ready to get outside and try some cross country skiing!  Remember, climbing skins for Tele Skis or Randonnee (Alpine Touring) are available for rent from the Outdoor Recreation Center.  Enjoy the great outdoors!

This week’s Get to Know Your Gear will look into the adventures of Telemark Skiing. What is Telemark Skiing – Telemark skiing is a type of skiing that is done with the heel of your ski boot unattached to the ski, see video below. So the ski binding attaches to the boot at the toe. What really makes Telemark skiing unique is the type of turn that you execute. The turn is done with your knees bent and one ski is pushed ahead of the other. How do you use them – Learning how to Telemark ski is something that will take some time. It is best to talk with an experienced Telemark skier for tips. You can look at some step by step instructions online to give you an idea before you get on the mountain or check out the video below to see some skiers learning how to Telemark. When should you use Telemark Skis – If you are already an existing skier and want to try a new challenge, this style of skiing might be right for you. Many skiers say they love the sense of freedom and control that Telemark skiing gives them. Anyone can try Telemark skiing, however it is easiest and fastest to learn when you are already comfortable on parallel skis.

The continuation of our Get to Know Your Gear segment is going to focus on avalanche beacons. What is an Avalanche Beacon? – It is a radio transceiver that is used to locate men and women in a search and rescue if they are buried beneath the snow due to an avalanche. How does it work? – When a person is buried under the snow, their radio will send out a transmission that connects to other beacons. The search party can turn their transceivers to receive and use the device to measure distance and direction to the buried party. The standard for beacons is to transmit signals at 457 kHz (kilo Hertz) so it is important that the beacon you choose is also transmitting at this rate. When should you use it? - Anytime you are skiing, snowboarding, hiking or ice climbing in the backcountry, it is important that you use an avalanche beacon. It is during these activities that you are most likely to encounter a loose snow slide avalanche. And remember, practice using your beacon with the men and women you will be in the wilderness with, it is not a useful instrument if used improperly. Now that you know a little more about this particular piece of equipment, you can evaluate if it will be important to use on your next snow adventures.  Happy exploring!

Christmas has come early to all of those winter sports fanatics like me.  In what way you may ask, in the way of SKI SWAP!  The 37th Annual WSU Ski and Gear Swap takes place this Friday and Saturday, December 2-3, just in time for the holidays.  Many vendors, from all over the Pacific Northwest, trek to Pullman to provide all kinds of winter sports items to students and community members at ridiculously low prices.  There is no better place to upgrade ski and snowboard equipment, purchase winter sports gifts for friends and family members, or get those winter toys you have been waiting for since last year.  With all of the amazing resorts within driving distance, not to mention the ski/snowboard trips offered by the Outdoor Recreation Center, there is no better time to get some new equipment and break it in on the slopes during Winter Break.  The 37th Annual WSU Ski and Gear Swap hours are 6-9pm on Friday and 9am-2pm on Saturday and with a minimal admission charge of $1, there is no reason to miss out on the deals of the year.  With this being the last Ski and Gear Swap in the area for the year, your opportunity to get great deals this season will end on Saturday.   Don’t miss out, I know I won’t!

Trying to make weekend plans and not sure where to go? After living in Pullman for 2 years, I have only been to one ski resort. This winter my season goal is to go to as many ski resorts in the area. This winter I plan on visiting these resorts:   Mt. Spokane Mission Ridge Schweitzer  Blue Wood Silver Mountain Brundage

  Trying to make weekend plans and not sure where to go?  I just got my season pass for Silver Mountain Resort this last weekend. I was at Silver Mountain for the last day of mountain biking and saw a sign that said, “48 days until ski season." Silver is planning to open for Thanksgiving week, provided there is enough snow. I need some new ski gear, so I am saving money for the ORC Ski Swap December 2 & 3.  http://nwshreddersunite.com/mountain-info/silver/overview/