Skins are essential for ski touring in the snow. The skins have an adhesive surface that sticks to the underside of the ski. The other side features hairs that provide grip on the snow. For touring, you want as much grip as possible when pressing down on your ski and minimal sliding resistance when moving it. It is also important that the skins are properly attached to the ski.
If you are buying skins for ski touring, make sure not to accidentally purchase skins for a splitboard. So, is there a difference between skins for touring skis and splitboards? Absolutely! The shape of a touring ski and a splitboard is different, and so is the shape of the skins. If you are ski touring, you need skins for touring skis. And if you are splitboarding, you need skins for a splitboard.
Originally, climbing skins were attached using glue on the underside of the ski. In addition to glued skins, there are also adhesive skins. These are often referred to as glueless skins, but that's not entirely accurate. These skins still use glue but come with a pre-applied adhesive layer, so you don't need to apply the glue yourself.
Glued skins require careful use and maintenance. However, if you take good care of them, they will last a long time. Moreover, the adhesive layer maintains strong sticking power even in cold temperatures. After reaching the top with glued skins, store them properly with a protective layer, mesh, or skin saver to prevent them from sticking to each other. It is also important to keep the skins as clean as possible because the adhesive layer is sensitive to dirt. If the skins no longer stick well due to dirt, damage, or frequent use, you can reapply a new glue layer.
Adhesive skins are designed for ease of use and maintenance. They are easy to clean with a skin cleaner or lukewarm water. At the top of the mountain, no protective layer is needed. Simply fold the skins in half, so the adhesive layer sticks to itself. For long-term storage, however, it's important to use a protective layer, mesh, or skin saver. Without it, the adhesive layer may become increasingly difficult to separate over time.
In summary, glued skins perform well in cold temperatures and last a long time but require careful use and maintenance. Adhesive skins are easier to use and clean. For long-term storage, it is also important to store adhesive skins properly.
A climbing skin doesn't just stay in place because of the adhesive layer but also due to attachments at the front and back. Most skins have a hook system that first attaches to the tip and then to the tail. Some attachment systems are integrated into the ski, and the skin is equipped with a clip that fits the ski's attachment system.
Climbing skins are made of mohair, nylon, or a combination of the two.
Mohair offers minimal sliding resistance and excellent grip on drier snow types. It is also flexible, making it easy to store the skins compactly. Mohair is recommended for experienced ski tourers and use under wide powder skis.
Climbing skins made of nylon provide excellent grip and are more durable and wear-resistant. They are ideal for beginner ski tourers.
Manufacturers often combine mohair and nylon to create skins that are durable, offer great grip, and have low sliding resistance. These ‘mix’ skins are suitable for nearly all ski tourers.
When buying climbing skins, it's crucial to ensure they fit your skis! Not all skins are suitable for all touring skis. We differentiate between:
Custom skins require you to completely cut them to size, both in length and width. The skins come in fixed lengths but are sometimes available in different widths. When choosing the width, ensure it matches the widest part of your ski.
Trim-to-fit skins come in various lengths, each suitable for a specific range. Choose the range that includes the length of your ski. You'll still need to cut the exact width and waist to fit your ski. A suitable cutting tool or ‘trim tool’ is usually included.
When purchasing touring skis with Trim-to-fit skins from Snowcountry, we offer to cut the skins to size for you as an extra service. If you prefer not to, you can let us know in the comments.
Finally, there are pre-cut skins. These skins are specifically designed to fit a particular model and length of touring ski. Ensure that the skin you purchase is compatible with your touring ski.
Still unsure which skins to choose after reading this Snowhow? Feel free to contact our customer service team; they’ll gladly help you find the best skins for your touring skis.
