Whether taking a chairlift bump, firing up the snowmobile or hitting a skintrack, those who free tour prioritize an aggressive, tough (if heavy) kit for a dominant descent. Inspired by big mountain competitions and freeride style, free touring gear focuses on sturdier materials for downhill-focused performance.
2023 Editors’ Choice: Apparel and Accessories
Though our testers spend much of Gear Test Week in denim, sequins and fur, they’re well versed in denier, down and wool. Here are their top choices.
2023 Editors’ Choice: Speed Touring Skis and Boots
Fast is light, and light is expensive. But the miles go by fast and easy. If that’s what you’re looking for, speed touring gear may be for you. See what skis and boots shined in this category.
2023 Editors’ Choice: Splitboards, Boots and Bindings
Now that splitboarding has entered the mainstream, riders can buy specialized boards to match any backcountry goal. Welcome to the Quivercene.
2023 Editors’ Choice: Sport Touring Skis, Boots and Bindings
Sport touring bridges the gap between free skiing and skimo—the result: powerful performance that’s still lightweight. Check out the skis, boots and bindings that topped the category.
2023 Gear Guide Specification Chart
We didn’t run the back-of-the-Gear-Guide chart in the 2022 Gear Guide, and we noted the displeasure many readers registered with that omission. So, here it is for the 2023 version, back by popular demand.
