Introduction to Nordic ski touring

Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).

In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.

It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.

ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.

Specific Nordic touring ski equipment consists of wide cross-country skis with scales and metal edges, accompanied by telescopic poles. For ascents that require it, we use self-adhesive skins (also known as "skin climbing skins") to ensure maximum grip.

Nordic touring skis have evolved just like alpine skis. Their size has been reduced, and their sidecut has been redesigned with a parabolic shape, offering a well-balanced combination of stability, maneuverability, and lightness. To reserve the specific Nordic touring equipment for you, please specify your height and shoe size when registering.

It's important to understand the mountain environment and its unpredictable weather, which can change rapidly from one extreme to the other. Being well-equipped will allow you to enjoy your holiday even more!

Clothing, the principles:

For both your upper and lower body, opt for "multi-layering". This means wearing several layers of clothing that you can remove or add depending on the temperature and the level of exertion.

For example :

1. a long-sleeved thermal base layer made of breathable material (hollow fiber)
2. a warm fleece jacket or a down jacket.
3. a windproof, waterproof and breathable jacket of the Gore-Tex type .

In calm, sunny weather, a base layer may be sufficient. In rain, snow, or wind, simply add this waterproof jacket. In very cold weather or during breaks, a fleece jacket is an essential addition.

Choose clothes that dry quickly , so avoid cotton. Opt for synthetic fibers that will keep you dry and warm for as long as possible.

Remember to dress warmly before you get cold , but especially to remove layers before you get too hot . Sweat is a hiker's enemy, as it dampens clothing that quickly becomes icy during breaks. Therefore, it's very rare to undertake a climb wearing a fleece jacket.

Avoid ski suits, which are too warm and bulky.

In your bag for the day:

1. 1 small backpack (35 to 40 L) with a waist belt, which is essential for attaching skis for certain approach routes.
2. 1 thermos or a preferably insulated water bottle (2 litres recommended).
3. Picnic essentials: 1 pocket knife, 1 fork-spoon.
4. Race snacks (energy bars, dried fruit or chocolate for those with a sweet tooth).
5. 1 small waterproof pouch with identity card, health insurance card and assistance contract received upon registration if you took out this insurance or that of your personal insurance.
6. 1 personal first aid kit (see complete kit suggestion below)
7. 1 pack of tissues
8. 1 pair of sunglasses + sunscreen.
9. A scarf or a "buff" (neck warmer) provides a solution for all situations to cover the neck and head, whether it is hot or cold.
10. 1 beanie
11. 1 pair of gloves + 1 spare pair of gloves
12. Optionally: a rain cover (to protect it from the rain) + 1 sturdy plastic bag (to protect the inside) + 1 headlamp or flashlight + 1 survival blanket.

Your complete luggage:

1. 2 short-sleeved t-shirts made of breathable material.
2. 1 long-sleeved undershirt made of breathable material.
3. 1 fleece jacket or 1 down jacket.
4. 1 waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex type windproof jacket with hood.
5. 1 rain cape.
6. 1 pair of soft, thermal, comfortable and water-repellent trekking or outdoor trousers. Alpine ski trousers are not recommended.
7. A pair of thermal cross-country ski tights can, depending on the weather, be ideal for exertion.
8. 1 pair of waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex type overtrousers .
9. Hiking socks. Opt for wool or specific hiking socks like terry cloth, which prevent your feet from overheating. Be careful with cotton, as it can cause blisters.
10. One pair of hiking boots in good condition, with high tops, good ankle support, and waterproof soles (like Vibram). Remember to test new boots and those that haven't been used for a long time beforehand (check in particular that the sole glue is still holding and re-waterproof them). Even for a ski trip, it's always important to have hiking boots.
11. 1 pair of lightweight casual shoes for the evening.
12. 1 comfortable outfit for the evening.
13. 1 pair of gaiters. If your trousers have "gussets", this is not necessary.
14. 1 swimsuit + 1 bath towel for the wellness area. In the room, you will find a bath towel for the shower.
15. Toiletries (opt for the essentials and small sizes).
16. Earplugs or ear pads (optional).
17. If you wear prescription glasses, remember to bring a spare pair.

Suggestions for a personal first aid kit:

1. Your usual medications.
2. Pain medication: Paracetamol preferred.
3. Elastic adhesive strip, Elastoplast type, 8 cm wide.
4. Disinfectant compresses.
5. Adhesive bandages.
6. Double skin (like Compeed or SOS blisters).
7. Lozenges for sore throats.
8. Vitamin C.
9. 1 pair of tweezers.
10. Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.

And then:

1. a dose of good cheer and why not a little specialty from your home to share during a picnic!
2. If you are a musician, feel free to bring your instrument of choice or your sheet music, the house piano is waiting for you.