Get informed. Choose. Ski powder.

At the latest when the first snow falls and the mountains are wrapped in a white coat, anticipation of the coming ski touring season begins to rise. That anticipation is driven by a different motivation for everyone. Some dream of high summits, others of steep couloirs, of deep powder or the finest spring snow, of solitude or of sociable adventures with friends.

No matter how high, far or long, no matter whether extreme or relaxed – choosing the right gear for your personal preferences and for the tour ahead increases the chance that the anticipation becomes reality.

What should you look out for when buying ski touring equipment, how do you find the lid that fits your pot? Those who would rather not deal with the topic are best advised by a specialist retailer. Those who are curious and want to research and find the right equipment for their own preferences and demands will find plenty of valuable results and information in this magazine to make the decision before the purchase easier.

At the end of March 2024 we again tested in Gastein / AUT with 13 testers and 2 prominent guests in excellent and variable conditions: 81 touring skis, 18 touring poles, 16 airbag backpacks and 21 day packs. The test system and the multi-layered test criteria are explained in detail on the following pages.

In addition we compiled comparative data in the categories touring bindings, boots, helmets, avalanche safety equipment, crampons, headlamps, climbing skins and ski socks in order to make the individual choice easier.

We would like to thank the entire BACKLINE test team for their full commitment, curiosity and professional diligence while testing the products. Thanks also to all equipment partners who equipped our testers with top products, to the tourism board and the mountain railways of Gastein, who spoiled us with hospitality and deep snow, and to binding manufacturer ATK, who provided uniform touring bindings for the ski test and thus makes the BACKLINE ski test unique on the market.

We wish everyone a snowy and safe winter 2024/25.

Yours, MARTIN FIALA, Publisher, Editor-in-Chief