Alpine skiing and ski mountaineering (also known as ski touring or randonnée) offer completely different experiences in the snow. Both disciplines share a passion for gliding over snow, but they vary considerably in terrain, equipment, and level of difficulty. Discover the main differences, their benefits, and who each discipline is designed for.
Main Differences
Terrain and Technique
Alpine skiing is practiced exclusively on prepared slopes within ski resorts. These slopes are marked and classified by difficulty level, from green runs for beginners to black runs for experts. With alpine skiing you only descend, as mechanical lifts (chairlifts, gondolas) take you to the top.
Ski mountaineering takes place outside resorts, in natural environments and unprepared terrain. This discipline combines both ascent and descent, making it a more complete activity. During the ascent you use climbing skins attached to the base of the skis that allow you to move forward without sliding backward. Ski mountaineers access remote, hard-to-reach areas, exploring pristine landscapes and untouched snow.
Required Equipment
Alpine skiing equipment includes wider, heavier skis that offer greater stability on fast descents, bindings that firmly secure the boot to the ski, and rigid boots that provide maximum control in high-speed turns. All equipment is optimized exclusively for descending.
Ski mountaineering requires specific and more technical equipment:
- Lighter skis to facilitate ascent (some skiers use freeride boards like the Rossignol Bandit or Dynastar Intuitiv to enjoy the descent more, though they are heavier on the ascent)
- Special bindings that allow the heel to release during ascent and lock for descent. The classic binding consists of a plate that pivots at the front and can be locked for descending like a piste binding
- Flexible boots with rubber soles for walking when necessary and with a rear lever that unlocks flexion during ascents. For descending, they switch to descent mode
- Climbing skins (synthetic, mohair, or mixed) that attach to the base of the ski to prevent backward sliding
- Mandatory safety equipment: avalanche transceiver (ARVA), shovel, and probe
At Pic Negre we have all the necessary equipment to outfit you for both disciplines.
Level of Difficulty and Safety
Alpine skiing is accessible to all levels, from beginners to experts. It is less physically demanding, focused solely on descending. Resorts offer a controlled environment with safety personnel, emergency services, restaurants, and shelters.
Ski mountaineering requires previous experience in alpine skiing, good physical condition, and knowledge of mountain navigation and safety. It's essential to understand that when practicing ski mountaineering, you're really doing winter mountaineering, so you must be aware of the risks: avalanches, sudden weather changes, loss of orientation. It's recommended to initially go with guides or experienced people.
Physical Benefits
Alpine skiing primarily strengthens the legs, improves coordination, and works muscular endurance in explosive and controlled efforts during descent.
Ski mountaineering offers a complete workout that combines intense aerobic exercise on ascents with descent technique. It's a much more physically demanding discipline that works the entire body and develops cardiovascular endurance.
Which to Choose?
Choose alpine skiing if:
- You're a beginner or looking to perfect your technique in a controlled environment
- You seek the thrill of descending and improving your turning technique
- You prefer the comfort of prepared slopes with nearby services
- You want an activity accessible for the whole family
- You seek speed, precision, and less physical effort
Choose ski mountaineering if:
- You already have experience in alpine skiing and seek a greater challenge
- You enjoy nature in its purest state and pristine landscapes
- You seek a complete physical challenge combining ascent and descent
- You're attracted to exploring new territories and off-piste routes
- You have knowledge of mountain safety and navigation
- You're willing to invest in more technical equipment
Comparison Table
| Feature | Alpine Skiing | Ski Mountaineering |
|---|---|---|
| Terrain | Prepared slopes in resorts | Natural terrain off-piste |
| Technique | Descent only at speed | Ascent with skins + descent |
| Equipment | Heavy skis, rigid boots | Light skis, flexible boots |
| Safety | Controlled environment by resort | Additional mandatory equipment (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe) |
| Physical effort | Lower, focused on descent | Higher, includes demanding ascents |
| Required level | All levels | Previous experience necessary |
| Investment | Lower | Higher (more technical equipment) |
At Pic Negre we equip you for both disciplines with state-of-the-art technical equipment. We have alpine skis for all levels and also specific equipment for ski mountaineering: light skis, special bindings, climbing skins, and all necessary safety equipment.
Our team will advise you on the most suitable equipment according to your level, goals, and chosen discipline. Whether you want to enjoy prepared slopes or explore the mountain in its purest state, we have everything you need for an unforgettable snow experience.
Book your equipment and enjoy your mountain adventure this 2025-2026 season.