Arlberg Freeride Manual 2013/14

2013/2o14

#3

www.arlbergalpin.at

Alpin- & Freeridecenter

Arlberg Freeride Manual powered by

Arlberg Alpin | Alpin & Freeridecenter | A-Stuben/Lech/St.Anton /St.Christoph am Arlberg | Tel.: +43 664 320 35 06 | info@arlbergalpin.at

Pictures of Sepp Mallaun, Skiing- and Sports Photographer Phone +43 664 420 68 68 | foto.mallaun@aon.at

www.fotomallaun.at

Table of content 1

The meaning of “FREERIDE”

2 Freeride technique

2.1 Basic technique

2.2 Key movement components of the turn

phase

2.3 Two most important movements in free-

ride 3

Other factors in the Freeride technique 3.1 Physical fitness 3.2 Mental requirements 3.3 Skiing ability 3.4 Equipment

4

Six fundamentals 4.1 Parallel skiing 4.2 Carving 4.3 Turn initiation in steep terrain 4.4 Moguls 4.5 Freeride technique 4.6 RPT © – The Rough Pow Turn

5 Dry land drills to improve quickness, coordina-

tion, and balance

5.1 Drills to improve quickness and coordina-

tion

5.2 Drills to improve balance

6

Powder Express

7

Recommendations about ski touring

8 Risk management

8.1 Assessment of avalanche risks

8.2 Danger signs in fresh snow conditions

8.3 Stop or Go

8.4 The avalanche report is the best source of

information 9

Freeride and equipment 9.1 The perfect Freeride ski 9.2 The perfect Freeride ski boot 9.3 Clothing 9.4 Safety equipment

10 Kamchatka – Freeride at the other side of the

world 11 Arlberg Alpin pictorial 12 Heli-skiing in Arlberg 13 Freeride Club Arlberg 14 Prices 15 Summer in Arlberg 16 Sailing Active

Masthead

Editor and responsible for the content: Arlberg Alpin, Alpin & Freeridecenter, A-6762 Stuben/Arlberg No. 58 Phone: +43 664 320 35 06 Email: info@arlbergalpin.at Copyright © by Arlberg Alpin

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Foreword 1

The meaning of FREERIDE

Freeride can be regarded as the original or truest form of skiing. Before there were groomed slopes, skiers had to cope with days of deep snow. Nowadays, the slopes are crowded and many skiers long for freedom, nature and adventure. The development of better and lighter equipment has made it possible for many to experience the thrill of “off piste” or out of bounds skiing.

Why did I take on this challenge?

Man strives to achieve a balance between his abilities and the tasks laid in front of him. When the task is too easy, boredom ensues. When the task overwhelms his abilities, the result is fear.

When the task and the abilities are in perfect balance, one reaches a certain feeling, a blend of action and awareness only afforded by concentration and devotion. This feeling is called “FLOW”. Not only is the feeling beneficial but it can also lead to an ability to create a place in our mind and in our heart that only we have access to.

Freeride offers a way to escape everyday worries, leave the world behind and reach the state of “flow”.

More than conventional powder skiing, it is a skill that allows for adapting to changing terrain and conditions. At its highest art form lies a mix of techniques: the decisions between small or large radius turns, tempo speeds, jumps, tricks, pressure or absorption turns. A mix of various turn shapes, turn radius and techniques is born.

The technical requirements mixed with the intense awareness of nature offers a personal challenge to every freerider. It is the choice of the perfect technique for the terrain as well as the terrain choice itself that makes freeriding fun even when the snow quality is less than perfect.

With this, I wish you a winter filled with “flow” and a meaningful and satisfying time in the snow.

Yours,

Lohninger Harry

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2

Freeride technique The freeride technique is not new but is a combination of the skier’s personality, psyche, awareness, speed, coordination, equipment and skiing technique.

2.1 Freeride technique Basic movements – weighing/unweighing – tipping/countering – rotation

2.2 Basic turning movement Preparation phase: athletic balance over skis Trigger phase: tipping skis on edge (unweighing – tipping – weighing) Passive guiding phase: move center of mass into fall line Active guiding phase: pressure to control turn radius, turn shape, speed (progressive weighing)

2.3 Two major movement components of freeride 1. Unweighing and pressure turn: Rise – turn and edge – twist/rotate – bending (recommended in all terrain). When skis are placed on edge, the center of mass is centered over the edges) 2. Absorption turn: absorption/flexion – twist /rotate – extension (in moguls, powder, carving) According to the terrain, the resulting technique is a mix between absorption/retraction turns and conventional pressure/carving turns. The use of each of these turns is a function of the ability of the skier. The goal of a freerider is the flow and the adaptation of the movement pattern to the terrain.

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3

Other components of the freeride technique

3.1 Physical fitness Physical fitness plays a large role in freeriding. It is critical for endurance – agility – strength and speed.

3.2 Personality Cognitive values: tactical restraint, adjustment to situations Awareness: The consciousness/feeling during movement Mental strength: strength of will, readiness, motivation and engagement

3.3 Ability to...

- Adjust appropriately to varied situations - Execute quick and efficient changes adapt to new situations - Combine several techniques - Manage movement coordination - Control body position - Maintain body stable in all situations - Change directions quickly and safely

3.4 Equipment Newer technologies, in particular the rocker technology, have made it easier to transition from “piste” (within the resort boundaries) to “off-piste” (back country). To maximize performance, the ski and ski boot must be fitted to each skier’s body and skiing abilities.

4

Six basic techniques of freeride The Austrian Ski School Association has defined a few turning styles. These are the basics on which we must built upon.

Depending on the terrain, the equipment and snow conditions, we need to use different turning techniques. There is no right or wrong, it either works or it does not. The goal is to achieve maximum results with movement efficiency. Not “as much as possible” but rather “as little as is necessary”.

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4.1 Basic Parallel turns

Goal: Simultaneous edge change, turning and steering of both skis.

Movement description – large radius turns: Initiation comes from a simultaneous motion of the body’s center of mass towards the center of the next turn and a flattening of both skis. It is achieved with an upward and forward push off the uphill /inside ski into the direction of the next turn. These movements have the goal of releasing both edges, unweighing the skis and letting them start pointing downhill. Once the skis cross the fall line, it is easy to progressively steer into the new turn and onto their new edge. Edge change occurs after the skis have crossed the fall line.

Drills: - Fallen leaf - Sides sipping – release - Side slipping – release into the fall line - Slide slipping garlands (without crossing the fall line) - One single turn - Poling drills - Variation on terrain, turn radius and tempo Movement description – small radius turns: A rhythmic edge change produces carved turns in the fall line. Simultaneous edge change and steering of the legs underneath a stable body leads to parallel short radius turns. A slight vertical movement (low to high) helps to initiate the direction change. The pole plant provides timing help for short radius turns.

Drills: - Progressively smaller radius turns - Turns with exaggerated up and down movement - Hockey stops - Succession of several short radius turns - Synchronized skiing (short radius)

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4.2 Carved turns

Goal: Dynamic change of direction stemming from ski steering and edge pressure, appropriate for snow and terrain conditions.

Good foresight and anticipation. Athletic skiing with good ski steering in small, medium and large radius turns.

Movement description – large radius turns: Both skis are on their uphill/inside edge. The pressured outside ski resists centrifugal forces. A movement of the center of mass upwards and diagonally into the apex of the next turn, together with an edge change leads the skis into the new turn. In the steering phase, the outside ski regains the lead and the inside ski is pressured appropriately for the conditions.

Drills: - Rapid knee flexion – extension in a straight run - Rapid succession small jumps in a straight run - With hands on the knees, alternate pushing knees to the right and to the left (railroad tracks) - Single carve into the hill

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4.3 Dropping into steep terrain

Goal: Simultaneous edge release and steering of skis into the fall line.

Movement description: Initiate movement with flexion followed by simultaneous release of the edge and dynamic extension of both knees and hips into the fall line. In this movement, both tails of the skis come off the snow. After landing, guide and pressure the skis out of the fall line while maintaining a good balanced stance.

Drills: - Static exercise: lifting tails of both skis simultaneously. Tip stays on snow - Garland - Edge release – side slip – edge to a stop - Traverse with hockey stop - Traverse with hockey stop, pole plant – jump - Tempo carved turns initiated with a strong edge set and release

A-6772 Stuben/Arlberg No. 58 | Phone +43 5582 301 88 | office@hotel-garni-arlberg.at www.hotel-garni-arlberg.at

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4.4 Moguls

Goal: Ski the moguls with a flexion/extension move. Skis are closer together and in constant contact with the snow. Center of mass is centered over the skis, not over the tails. Poles/hands must be in front of the body at all times. Shorter poles are recommended for expert skiers.

Movement description: Active absorption and extension over the back side of the mogul, combined with rotation, edge set and guiding of the skis around the mogul.

To round up the mogul, plant the inside pole on top of the mogul and absorb mogul by bending the legs. Flatten skis at the top of mogul. Turn skis and extend legs in the trough.

Before the next mogul can be attempted, the ski tips must be actively steered in the trough to complete the turn.

At higher speeds, the quick flexion and extension of the legs is increasingly important to maintain a balanced stance over the skis.

In addition to maintaining tempo, the pole plant helps to maintain balance. The poles should always be in a forward position. Shorter poles are recommended.

Drills: - In a straight run or in a traverse, flexion/absorption and extension over a mogul - From a static position on top of mogul, ski into the trough - Single mogul turn - As many moguls in a row as possible - Change radius of the turn - Mogul skiing without poles - Ski with eyes closed over small mogul (slow speed) - Dynamic mogul skiing with tempo control

OUR TIPS: Narrow stance. Pole plant by tip of skis. Anticipation. Active ski-snow constant contact.

These techniques work also perfectly with deep snow and high speed and in steep terrain.

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4.5 Freeride technique

Goal: Controlled but free skiing, for greater enjoyment. Playful skiing with greater utilization of the terrain and of a mix of all skiing techniques – a feeling of flow.

Movement description: Freeride combines a mix of techniques, appropriate for a varied landscapes and snow conditions. Balance is with center of mass for the most part over the downhill/outside ski. A slight body rotation may be used to help initiate turns. A close stance is absolutely NOT recommended. A bend at the hip is only rarely indicated. The position of the body is more compact, relying on skeleton rather than muscle for strength and thus less tiresome.

Drills: - In a straight run or traverse, vary your position so your balance goes from fore to neutral to aft.

- Pedal turns - Railroad track turns - On a small incline, and about ½ to 1 foot of powder (ideally over hard packed snow), try a few small hops and rhythmic changes of direction - Vary between narrow and wide stance - Ski with exaggerated vertical motion - Retraction/absorption – extension medium radius turn, on groomed runs There are 2 main techniques for skiing in powder. The first is called “Big Mountain” and relies on big jumps. The other relies on smaller jumps and less tempo. At the start, one must use as much tempo as is necessary to keep the ski tips above snow. Progressively transition to tempo movements initiated by the body itself. In addition to the spring generated by the ski, the new snow will act as a trampoline and project the ski to the surface. Skis are turned at the point of maximum release (highest point on the snow) – when the skis are lightest. The heavier the snow, the more pronounced the up-down movement should be. When the tempo is faster or the terrain steeper, the up-down movement is reduced and the pressure can be played with.

Our partner for internet sulutions: www.cdmediateam.com

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4.6 RPT Š – The Rough Pow Turn

Goal: Off piste in poor ski conditions.

When perfect powder is not available, we still enjoy exploring the back country. We developed a turning technique that makes it easier to turn in poor snow conditions!

Movement description: Skis in a wide stance. Before turn initiation, pressure build up is achieved with a deep knee bend. Pole plant is simultaneous with a transfer of the weight up and onto the inside/uphill leg. The outside/downhill ski is unweighed and pushed forward so the skier can assume a good alpine balanced stance. The body will then tip/be drawn downhill and into the direction of the new turn. Pressure is kept onto the same leg throughout the turn completion. Turn initiation is thus relatively easily and does not rely as much on pure strength.

The ski simply follows the body. At the end of the turn, the outside/downhill hand and pole can be lightly swung forward in preparation for the next turn initiation.

Drills: - Move center of mass downhill from a traverse - One jump with exaggerated compression upon landing and steering of skis back uphill to a stop - Multiple jumps in a row - Changing radius of turns - Practice on easy terrain with bad quality snow

OUR TIP: A bit more speed and guts help in poor ski conditions.

w w w . ta g w e r k - g ra f i k . at

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Restaurant – Sunny Terrace – Bar – 17th Century Wine Cellar Ski-Taxi and Reservation for Lunch/Dinner: +43 5582 511 „ …Charm and soul of the Mondschein is unique.”

www.mondschein.com

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5

Exercises and drills to improve stamina, agility and posture

5.1 Pre-season exercises to improve stamina and agility are always fun and are important for good ski technique. Freeride and in general back country skiing demands a minimum of three to four turns to thoroughly assess the terrain and snow condition. Therefore, good physical condition is important.

To improve your general physical fitness and basic posture, here are a few training tips.

Exercises with a rope: The following exercises are performed without ski poles, with an 18 ft. long rope.

- Short radius turns, hands forward, rope in one hand. Swing the rope to make the shape of a pretzel (without becoming a pretzel J) - Short radius turns, hands up, swing the rope with one hand - Switch hands - Short radius turns, juggling rope between hands - Slow short radius turns with a partner, throwing rope to each other - Short radius turns, bringing rope back and forth through the legs.

- Wide radius turns, holding the rope as if it were a handlebar.

- Wide radius turns with rope on your shoulders.

- Wide radius turns with rope on your back - With two ropes tied to one another: Roman chariot racing.

The front person places the rope around his waist, the hind

person holds the ends of the rope like onto the harness of a horse carriage. The front person will ski in a straight run.

The hind person will break by performing short turns and going from one edge to the other. Perform drill in increasingly steep terrain. Beware of other skiers.

- With two ropes tied to one another, on mild slope. Play with centrifugal force. The inside skier holds the rope as if holding to the harness of a wagon. The outer skier holds the rope at the other end. Both skiers start parallel. The inside skier leads into the first turn. Because of the centrifugal force, the outer skier will accelerate (similar to waterskiing).

The inside skier will need to hold a stronger edge to be able to hold the outer skier through the turn completion.

BEWARE of other skiers as the outside skier as this is a high speed drill.

5.2 Exercises to correct poor alpine posture Position too far back (aft): - Use shorter poles - Short radius turns holding poles forward - Short radius turns balancing poles across wrist (both hands forward) - Short radius turns with un- buckled boots

Burg Hotel | Familie Lucian | Oberlech 266 | A-6764 Lech/Arlberg Phone +43 5583 22 91 | info@burghotel-lech.com www.burghotel-lech.com

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Position too far forward: - Use longer poles - Rope exercises - Ski with unbuckled boots - Ski holding poles behind back - Ski holding poles behind neck

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Powder Express

7

A new service we have arranged for our guests is our own Shuttle Service to and from the hotel, as well as from run to run. Flat-rate price – paid at the end of the day or the week.

Flex – Stuben via NADEL

POWDER EXPRESS Phone +43 664 730 923 22

Touring recommendations

Exposition: SW Lifts: Trittkopf Cable car Difficulty: difficult Vertical drop: 1.020 m Length of run: 3,7 km Description: From the top station follow piste No. 7 until you reach a vast bowl. Leave the piste to the left, onto a shoulder and down a short steep shoot next to some rocks. Now cut sharply to the left beneath the rocks, crossing steep and short slopes. Sidestep up and around a shoulder and traverse over easy slopes, towards an easily visible saddle next to the „ “Ochsenkopf peak . Ski down the first pitch, until you reach „ the actual access for the “Nadel . At the start drop down a

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steep and narrow slope the cross to the left until you reach a narrow saddle marked by a rock tower. From here traverse the big and open slope all the way to the left until you reach a gentle bowl, take it easy „ over the roof of the “Flexentunnel . On to Stuben in direction T-bar directly the piste into Arlberg Stuben to Sandra for a nice lunch.

Character: Rather steep and demanding access. Only recommended under safe snow conditions. Nice view over impressive landscape.

Destination: Stuben/Arlberg

Difficulty: moderate Vertical drop: 700 m Length of run: 2,3 km Description: From the top station follow piste No. 7 until you reach a vast bowl. Leaving the piste to the left, ski onto a shoulder and down a short steep chute next to some rocks. Now into moderate slope, „ leading down to the gentle “Ochsenböden . On the left hand side of the Ochsenböden you go down to the access of the Flexenmulde.

Now directly to the right reaching west facing moderate slopes, leading down to the bus stop.

Flexenmulde

Character: Beautiful scenery with a great view to Stuben and Erzberg. Exposed to strong sun radiation in late winter.

Exposition: SW Lifts: Trittkopf Cable car

Destination: Bus stop just above the Flexentunnel

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8

Risk management To evaluate a tour route is difficult and requires a lot of experience. If there is any doubt, the most conservative option will be chosen. Useless risk taking can have disastrous consequences in the backcountry. We must always keep in mind that we are alone and it might be a long time before help is on the way or even longer to reach you. In case of an avalanche, the first 15 minutes are crucial so self rescue and companion rescue is always the fastest. In addition, one must always prioritize route selection and more specifically line selection. Fog can add to the dangers of unseen obstacles and loss of sense of direction. Even the best risk getting lost in the fog.

The tour is selected according to the skiers’ ability and the size of each group. Specific meeting points and behavior rules are establish in case of an emergency. We study the most recent avalanche reports but these are general considerations and the conditions can vary widely in specific areas.

8.1 Predicting avalanches Predicting avalanches is very difficult. It is necessary to have extensive experience and to know the mountain well. Therefore, pride must not come in the way of conservative choices. The recommendations of local mountain guides and ski instructors must be taken into account.

It is not easy to recognize avalanche dangers. An avalanche report is just one of the many factors to take into consideration. It is impossible to eliminate risk. Avalanche courses provide information to further our understanding of these risks and yet we cannot reduce them to zero. The more one learns about avalanches, the unsure one becomes. There are now so many methods claiming to predict avalanches. The truth is that the same theme recurs: only experience and conservative decisions protect you and even then not 100%. The best can sometimes be wrong.

It is best to pick a method and not get confused by the many available choices.

8.2 Danger signs of fresh snow Is the load of the fresh snow critical? Am I in danger?

Arlberg Alpin has chosen the „STOP OR GO� method, which is the method taught by the Austrian Mountain Association.

Fresh snow is soft and very fragile. Fresh, deep powder is for us freeriders a dream that makes our heart pounds. However, we always must remember that it can be deadly. Most important is the temperature and wind speed during snow fall as well as the rate of snow accumulation.

We need to decide where it is safest to ride. In fresh snow, the ideal terrain is shaded troughs and slopes between 30 and 35 degrees of inclination.

Nevertheless, the avalanches that occur in our preferred terrain often turn out to be the most dangerous.

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8.3 Stop or Go Stop or Go is a strategic concept for decision making before and during touring.

Check 1

Check 2

Limits and concerns The higher the avalanche danger, the more we need to forego steep terrain!

Be aware (of danger signs) – evaluate (am I in danger?) – act, avoid or wait

8.4 The avalanche report is the most important source of information about actual avalanche risk.

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A-6580 St. Christoph am Arlberg | Phone +43 54 46 28 04 www.maiensee.com

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9

Equipment

9.1 The ideal Freeride ski The Freeride ski or All-Mountain carving ski is different from the conventional ski, particularly the degree of flex of the tip of the ski.

A Freeride ski tip is softer, flexes more easily, thereby providing for an easier ride in deep snow as it will bring the ski to the surface. A stiff ski, such as a racing ski, will get buried under the snow and will lead to the skier being pitched forward.

In addition, the Freeride skis are usually wider (75 to 100 mm under foot) than conventional skis. As a result, they offer more buoyancy.

The length of the ski will be different as well. A soft ski allows for a longer ski. As a rule, a Freeride ski will be the same or up to 10 cm longer than the skier’s height.

Wider skis (to 130 mm under foot) are not only for experts but also for beginners. The wider the ski, the easier it is to learn how to ski in deep snow. In addition, wider skis require less energy and thus increase the beginner’s enjoyment.

The rocker technology is a quantum leap as far as the camber goes. Every ski has a camber that allows for better control. On a rockered ski, the tip and the tail of the skis bend up. This shape lets the ski “swim” on the surface of the snow. The more rockered the ski, the better it will perform in deep snow.

Be aware that a ski that is designed for deep snow will not perform as well on groomed runs. We recommend speaking with a knowledgeable salesperson before selecting the ski that will be best for you. The right ski will depend on how much back country versus resort skiing you plan on doing. A 60% back country/40% resort skiing is the ratio for a typical Arlberg skier.

Stöckli Stormrider 95

The Stöckli Stormrider 95 is a great All-Mountain ski which performs well in powder and groomed and is thus outstanding for ARLBERG skiing. The all new LIGHT CORE & the printed top titanal sheet save recognizable weight. The reduced sidecut from 22.2 to new 16.9 m even make this Stormrider great to ski on piste. This is why we rate it 10 snowflakes off piste and 6 snowflakes on piste.

Kästle BMX 118

High performance freeride skis from KÄSTLE. Innovative construction to maximize flotation and stability in all terrain. The BMX118 is the Big-Mountain ski that floats effortlessly in powder yet adapts to changing conditions. DUAL HOLLOWTECH, EARLY RISE Rocker Technology and low camber makes this model perfect for powder. A waist of 118 mm allows great skiing performance in deep powder.

In comparison to a classic terrain ski of equivalent length, the running surface gains approximately 78 %. The wider radius in the shovel of the dual radius Big-Mountain delivers exceptional stability, while still being forgiving. The front radius exists the running track before the contact point, merging the shovel geometry in a straight line.

Available in 168, 183 cm Sidecut: 139| 118| 128 Radius: 33 m (length 183)

Our partner for all questions regarding equipment is

A-6580 St. Anton/Arlberg/Austria | Dorfstraße 2 | Phone +43 5446 28 30 - 15 (Jeff Swanson) office@sport-jennewein.com | www.sport-jennewein.com | www.sport2000rent.at 19 | www.arlbergalpin.at

9.2 Freeride Ski Boots The fit of a ski boot is most important.

OUR TIP: The foam of a Freeride liner is not as hard as the race boot liner. Foam tongue offers the best protection for shins during jumps. Conventional liners lose their fit over time, which decreases the transfer of pressure from foot to ski. The type of ski boot should be appropriate for the ski preference i.e. freeride, racing, easy groomed skiing, aggressive skiing or touring. The flex (how stiff the boot is) should take the skier’s center of mass as well as his/her weight into account.

For freeriding, the ski boot should ideally have a walk mode which can be switched to for ascends and the soles should be rubber (non slip). A power strap will often serve as a fifth buckle, to afford additional control of the ski.

OUR TIP: Light weight boots do offer comfort when ascending – but what really matters is stability and support when skiing – we recommend stability over ultra-light.

Head Venture 130 With this ski specialty boot, HEAD sets new standards for Freeride boots.

The boot is lightweight without compromising performance.

Its SPINE FLEX-ALU buckles are sturdy and at the same time micro-adjustable. Integrated shocks and Vibram soles show its freeride nature. The shell design is slick and trendy.

Touring soles are optional.

The JENNEWEIN 3F foam inner shoe is the perfect complement to this boot. Thanks to the Freeride Foam, most people will experience the perfect fit inside their Freeride boots and see their comfort and performance enhanced.

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9.3 Clothing Functional layered clothing is perfect for a succession of active descends and climbs. The outer layer must be light and breathable.

A double Goretex membrane is adequate but a triple layer is of course superior.

The gloves must be waterproof, if possible out of Goretex, and they must reach high onto the lower arm so no snow can come in from the top. We have had good results with the brand name HESTRA. As far as pants go, a high waist will protect the lower back. Falls or simply the friction of the backpack will generally slide pants down and expose the lower back. This can be very uncomfortable in cold weather.

A helmet is a must. The question is which one? In principle, they are all adequate as long as they fit well and do not limit the field of vision.

Sunglasses or goggles? Goggles have a better fit with the helmet and will prevent snow from coming between the lens and the eye. They will also minimize tearing at high speed.

OUR TIP: Purchase goggle/ sunglasses and helmet at the same time and make sure that there is no room between the top of the rim and the helmet.

Your forehead will thank you!

Eyewear with interchangeable lenses: light changes with weather conditions. Modern eyewear have a system that makes it easy and fast to change lenses.

OUR TIP: Carry two lenses with you. One for sunny weather (dark) and one for poor visibility (yellow, orange or red). A spare lens can also come in handy if your lens is lost or broken during a fall.

Nadine Wallner in New Zealand Š by Stefan Schlumpf 21 | www.arlbergalpin.at

9.4 “Safety” – Emergency equipment The word “safety” should not be used interchangeably with “Avalanche emergency equipment”. One should not assume that wearing it makes you safe. There is no complete protection from avalanches. All avalanches can be fatal. There are two types of equipment that can increase the chance of surviving an avalanche.

The first is an avalanche air bag that is the only one activated by the skier him/herself. Most avalanche victims are buried. This airbag is designed to help the skier float on the surface so they can be more easily found.

The second is the rescue equipment carried and used by the fellow members of your group. A beacon, in combination with the shovel and probe are absolute musts. These cannot prevent you from being buried but localization and extrication are made possible. The first 15 minutes are crucial in avalanche survival.

The beacon must have the international frequency 457 hertz. For the most precise localization, and hence better survival rates, the beacon must have 3 antennae.

The handling of the beacon, especially the search part, should be relentlessly practiced at home, in avalanche classes or in freeride camps.

The shovel should be light and compact, but the blade solid enough to resist the hard avalanche snow. Of utmost importance is the telescopic handle. The grip should be comfortable to handle.

The probe should have a minimum length of 240 cm and be stable. The new PIEPS probe is revolutionary and offers further help in avalanche situations.

To stay on the surface during an avalanche means to stay alive.

The ABS backpack.

There are different systems such as avalanche balls, snorkel and many more but more mountain guides swear by the ABS backpack. A small pull on the emergency lever activates the backpack. Two airbags are deployed simultaneously alongside the body and transport the skier horizontally on the surface of the avalanche. This horizontal position is for the most dangerous part of the avalanche, the onslaught of the snow mass. This position prevents the skier from being grabbed and pulled within the snow mass. In essence, both airbags stabilize and protect the skier during the fall.

The Vario-(interchangeable) system allows the ABS base unit to be attached to backpacks of various sizes. This is very practical not only to pick the right back pack for every occasion but also economical because the backpack alone can be replaced if needed.

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10 Kamchatka – Freeride at the other end of the world with Arlberg Alpin Kamchatka is not immediately associated with freeride paradise. When the word comes into a conversation, it is more likely to describe the large bear population, salmon fishing, the 29 active volcanoes, or undisturbed nature. We can attest that Kamchatka has a lot more to offer.

It takes 10 hours of flying just to reach this peninsula located between the Bering Sea, the North Pacific Ocean, and the Sea of Okhotsk, at the eastern end of Siberia and about 1.000 km north of Japan. The length of the entire peninsula is 1.300 km. Its size is equivalent to Austria and Denmark combined but its population barely reaches 350,000.

The first impression from the Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky airport is clear: we ARE at the end of the world. After deplaning the A320 airbus, we boarded a bus and were taken to a parking lot where our luggage was waiting in freezing temperature. The snow covered bumps awakened our dreams of perfect powder.

The hour-long trip to the lodge seemed to last mere seconds.

Despite the fatigue, our eyes stayed wide open to witness the wide expanse of snow and the 3.5 meter snow banks along the road. After a safety briefing, safety exercises, and our first Russian meal, we fell blissfully asleep.

With a 12-hour time difference, it is probably normal that we were all looking forward to the sunrise and our wake up time. It snowed overnight and the sky was grey and ominous. Oncoming weather. You betcha. On the first day, we could barely wait to meet our guide after breakfast. Because of the oncoming weather and strong winds, our first run was scrapped. Our group’s morale dipped after hearing the news. The guides stayed with us and after a few hours they concluded that it was safe to at least spend some time on the sticks. Because of the poor visibility, we were limited to tree skiing in the Alpen forest.

When we took our first helicopter flight, the same helicopter that would carry us the entire week, we were both excited and nervous. There were 16 guests and 3 guides: one guide per group

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Pictures Kamchatka © by Harry Lohninger

Rate annual end-of-season-trip Kamchatka Heli-skiing € 5.500,– per person, max. 6 persons

of 8 and one guide to close the mountain behind us. What we had imagined in the last 48 hours was becoming a reality out of the helicopter windows. The loud rotors, the helicopter shaking, our heart beating faster, and then …GO GO GO! The rotors kept moving as we jumped off the helicopter and we were greeted by the extreme wind and snowstorm they generated. After the helicopter departed, it took us a few seconds to realize the helicopters had landed on a plateau the size of a tennis court and that we could have stepped out comfortably.

Yes, the beginnings are always painful!

The first runs in the frozen, wind compressed snow were not impressive but with each run, the snow was getting better and the feeling of freeride was in the air once again as we traversed the thick birch forest. Even though this felt more like a warm up, we could never forget our first day in Kamchatka.

At least we were slowly getting used to the giant helicopter. We spent the next day enjoying the outdoor thermal pool at the lodge, hoping that the tales of past years experiences were telling the truth.

For the remaining 6 days, we had perfect weather: sun, blue skies, and absolutely no wind. In April, the snow depth was still 6 meters, which was more than enough. Our freeride adventure was about to start!!! www.arlbergalpin.at | 24

Check out Video!

Day after day we experienced why the landscape was perfect for freeriding. In this undisturbed nature, which we probably only shared with a few sleeping bears, each descent was a highlight. We experienced powder conditions close to what is described as “champagne powder�, a snow quality impossible to find in Europe. There were spectacular drop offs at summits, active volcanoes, and the strange smell that comes out of their vents. In about 9 descents per day and up to 2.500 vertical meters per run, we traversed landscapes composed of only snow and mountains. Lunch time, a well-deserved break, was a thrill: picnics in the snow with fresh salmon or grilled scallops. In the evening, after returning to the lodge by helicopter, we had the opportunity to heal our bodies in the thermal pools. After dinner, we spoke about our day over card games, hoping that our welcomed sleep would ready us for the challenges of the next day There was not a single day where we saw anyone outside of our group. One of the absolute highlights of our trip were the descents with a view of the Bering Sea and the wonderful powder turns all the way down to the beach, where the helicopter was waiting for us. Where can we still experience such a delight?

After 5 days of intense effort, ranging from coping with the 11-hour flight, the altitude, the 42 runs, we left Kamchatka injury free and experience rich. Even though this can be described as the experience of a lifetime, we hope to come back and live it all over again!!!

Dennis Scholz, frequent return guest and participant in Kamchatka 2013

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11 Conversation with Nadine Wallner from Klösterle at Arlberg, Freeride World Champion 2013 Arlberg Alpin enjoyed a conversation with Nadine about freeride guiding. Sitting across from her, it is hard to imagine that she is the same person as the racer who comes down crazy steep terrain at max speed. She is a self-confident and petite young woman.

Favorite Mountain: The Arlberg. “Here I am home. I know my way around. My father who is an experienced mountain and ski guide, took me freeriding when I was 6 years old. We skied the route over the Valluga/ Westgrat to Zürs. This was a defining moment for me, especially as such a small child.

Nadine, how old were you when you started skiing?

I started when I was 3. My Dad used to take me with him on tours. Until age 16, I was a competitive racer. Unfortunately, due to injury, I had to abandon my dreams of a career in racing and started working towards my certification as a ski instructor and ski guide instead.

When did you discover freeriding?

After my injury, I was looking for something. I was rebellious, like all teenagers. Freeriding was so perfect: rebellious, free and informal. It was fascinating and the best freeride terrain was right outside my door. There was no other choice!

How do you prepare for freeriding and how does this training differ from training for other more conventional alpine sports?

In the winter, I train by skiing countless kilometers and jumping in the park. In the summer, the training consists mainly of cross country running, biking and climbing.

I just came back from a qualifier in New Zealand during which I sustained an injury but even that is part of the experience and contributes to making me a better freerider.

I think that the difference between classic training is that we are still a bit freer in the structure of our workouts. Each of us decides how we train. Endurance is very important and we get that from cross country running and high altitude touring. Strength training is also crucial to fend off injuries.

It certainly looks like a full time job? How do you manage financially and how compatible is it with your studies?

It is a very good question. It requires a lot of will power and idealism.

I am lucky to have sponsors that pay for most of my expenses but at the beginning, I had to finance everything myself. I have many good friends who helped me with my school costs. They also support me emotionally when I am down and they remind me about my exam schedule when I am away racing or training. It is not so easy to get your ducks in a row, but it is doable with the help of my loved ones.

You became 2013 Freeride World Champion in Verbier. Talk to us about your journey?

There are 5 FWT (Freeride World Tour) competitions. The fifth is the finals in Verbier, Switzerland. You must qualify for the finals during the first 4 competitions. Half of the competitors qualify for the finals.

I qualified by coming in 3rd at the 2012 Freeride World Qualifier series.

FWT 2013 1. Revelstoke/Canada 2013: 2nd place 2. Chamonix/France 2013: 2nd place 3. Kirkwood/USA 2013: 5th place 4. Fieberbrunn/Austria 2013: 1st place

5. Verbier/Switzerland 2013: 3rd place Combined Freeride world tour: 1st place.

You are also an active ski instructor and ski guide and you know areas where races take you that are notoriously dangerous, namely Verbier.

Yes, the Bec de Rosses is notorious. It is extremely steep as Big Mountain skiing should be. There is not much room for freestyle. We focus on not falling and not getting hurt. This event always stretches us all as athletes.

What is freestyle? Flips or similar?

Exactly. During the run, one must incorporate as many spectacular jumps as possible. The landings must always be clean or points get deducted from the final score. Basically, you should not attempt crazy jumps if you cannot land them cleanly.

How does the course get evaluated?

The first thing to decide is your lines (routes), then speed, fluidity jumps and above all, landings and finally form a final impression of the course.

As a guide, it strikes me that you make a lot of decisions on a course that you cannot ride ahead of time?

True. I can only see the lines and decide on the route and jump location. During the run, I only have milliseconds to make a decision on where to jump and where to land. This is exactly what fascinates me about the sport!

When I think about it, I would probably break all the bones in my body doing this. When do you decide it is over? Is there an age limit?

No. That is what is wonderful about freeriding. There are no limits.

It is also more of a lifestyle. For those who adopt it, it is easy. It does not matter how old you are or where you are coming from. As long as you feel you have it in you and your mind is free, you are there.

Look at freeride legend Seb Michaud who at 40 still throws back-

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wards flips and take bold, daring runs. He has decided to end his racing career in Verbier but I believe that he will continue to rid. It is his passion.

What advice would you give to young freeriders?

Expand your boundaries and push your limits.

Do not push them too often however because at some point, the little bag of luck that we all carry with us will run empty.

What is your life’s motto?

Experience your passion – but stay on the right path.

HAVE FUN OUT THERE IN THE MOUNTAINS!

We were offered insight into the life of a freeride athlete and have the utmost respect for these young racers. With little money, sometimes no more than one pair of skis, and a lot of enthusiasm, they storm down the steepest mountains and perform spectacular jumps in unfamiliar terrain, all at dizzying speeds.

For all their efforts, the financial reward is small as the sport is in its infancy. In my opinion, they deserve more recognition and respect.

Nadine in New Zealand © by Stefan Schlumpf

Wallner Nadine Dorf 71 6754 Klösterle/Arlberg https://www.facebook.com/nadi.wallner

Nadine Wallner Born 05/15/1989 in Klösterle Studied Sport management and business Hobbies: skiing, climbing, paragliding, surfing, everything else fun related to the mountains!

Sponsored by Red Bull, Mammut-Barryvox, Snowpulse, Marker/Völkl, Bergbahnen Stuben, TVB Klösterle, Leki, Sony, Scherelosigkite, SmS Multimedia headphones, Tecnica

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12 Heli-skiing in the Arlberg Heli-skiing is a dream for every freerider. Heli-skiing in the Arlberg is a uniquely Austrian adventure.

Morning: Depending on the snow conditions and the skiing ability of the group, the guide will decide to fly to the Mehlsack, at 2.652 m of altitude or the Schneetäli at an altitude of 2.450 m. After the spectacular flight to the summit, a breathtaking 1.100 vertical feet descend into the Zuger Täli awaits.

Lunch (not included) within the ski resort of Lech (reached via the Ski lift Zugerberg) Afternoon: More powder skiing and return to Stuben/Arlberg and the freeride communal table at the Hotel Garni where pictures and movies can be shared over a drink.

Rates: € 260,– per person from 3 people

€ 385,– per person from 2 people Included benefits: - Guide or ski instructor for 5 hours - Helicopter flight (1) - Transportation from the Hotel Garni in Stuben/Arlberg to the heliport with the Arlberg Alpin Powder Taxi - ABS backpack, transceiver, shovel and probe - An unrivalled skiing adventure in Austria with special flair and freeride-regular’s table - Helmet camera (one per group) - Optional: Freeride ski rental (E42 per day) Practical information: Meet at 8:30 AM in the Arlberg Alpin office in the hotel Garni in Stuben/Arlberg. After a short equipment check, the group will be transported to the heliport in Zürs. Guest can also choose to meet directly at the heliport at 9 AM by the Flexenhüsle Restaurant or can be picked up by our Powder Express. The goal is to be one of the first groups on the mountain.

Return to Stuben/Arlberg around 3 pm.

powered by

www.wucher-helicopter.at

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Phone +43 5583 22 06-0 | info@postlech.com

www.postlech.com

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13 Freeride Club Arlberg Our affiliated Freeride Club enables powder junkies to fulfill their passion with likeminded skiers. For kids from age 6 and up, we offer a training every Sunday at the Sonnenkopf. Participants will be trained by guides and ski trainers as well as by Freeride Pro Simon Wohlgenannt. Simon was ranked #12 in the free ride world standings.

Freeride camps: 01/03 - 01/05/2014 at Sonnenkopf | 02/12 - 02/14/2014 at Sonnenkopf | 04/14 - 04/16/2014 at Sonnenkopf Rate per child incl. lunch € 75,–

14 Rates

Guides/ski instructors: Per day (one person) € 290,– Every additional person € 25,– Freeride day (group) € 70,– Big Mountain Day € 95,– Ski touring (group) € 80,– Winter ferrata € 290,– Heli-skiing Arlberg (per person) € 260,– Snowshoe touring (group) € 50,– Groups are 7 people maximum, length of tour approximately 5 hours Rental of freeride ski equipment and safety gear (airbags, transceiver, shovel, probe) upon request.

Freeride camps from € 250,– We offer 3- to 5-day camps for teenagers and adults, from beginners and experts.

Check us out at www.arlbergalpin.at.

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15 Sommer in the Arlberg The Arlberg Alpin Mountain Sports & Outdoor Center offers year-round adventure throughout Austria’s scenic Arlberg province. We specialize in climbing, hiking, canoe touring, canyoning (water rappelling) , stand up paddle boarding, biking, archery, diving, and children adventure camps.

w w w . ta g w e r k - g ra f i k . at

Our team is composed of state certified ski and mountain guides, hiking guides, canyoning guides, psychologists, dive masters, biking guides, archery instructors and canoe guides.

Our week long programs, from 06/20/2014 to 10/05/2014 are suitable for everyone. Please note minimum and maximum group size vary depending on the program.

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Hotel Restaurant | Phone +43 5583 21 47 welcome@sonnenburg.at | www. sonnenburg.at

16 Sailing Active – Sailing instruction | Yacht charter Sailing Active was founded by Harry Lohninger, a sailing enthusiast and a 25 year veteran of sailing sports.

Our knowledge applies to the entire Mediterranean Sea, from Aegean (Turkey) to Gibraltar.

The services we provide include sailing charters, with or without captain, and specialized trips. We cover all the necessary information, including course charting, weather and paperwork.

Specialized trips can be arranged, such as “Sailing and Climbing” and “Sailing and Diving”, as well as skipper training in Elba, Mallorca, and Slovenia.