Ski touring demands precise management of heat, moisture, and wind. Unlike alpine skiing, which alternates effort and rest, the ascent generates continuous heat while the descent abruptly exposes you to cold and gusts. Understanding this dynamic is essential for proper, safe gear selection.
1. Physiological and Weather Demands of Ski Touring
During ascent, the body produces heavy sweat. If moisture remains trapped in layers, it causes rapid cooling during breaks or the transition to descent. Cold wind, blowing snow, and subzero temperatures increase this risk. The challenge is twofold: efficient moisture wicking and immediate protection against the elements.
2. Base Layer: The Foundation of Thermal Comfort
The base layer must keep skin dry while regulating temperature. RWS-certified merino wool, used in all AYAQ t-shirts, absorbs moisture, limits odors, and maintains stable insulation even when damp. AYAQ offers options to adapt the base layer to conditions: Shirwali (merino + Tencel ~240 g/m², warmer), Mefonna (100% lightweight merino), Biafo (versatile merino).
3. Midlayer: Managing Thermal Flow
The midlayer retains heat while allowing moisture to escape. The fleece Kokanee provides stable insulation without overheating and remains compact during intense effort.
4. Outer Layer: Barrier Against Wind and Snow
AYAQ’s 3-layer jackets feature a recyclable Sympatex membrane with 52,000 Schmerber waterproof rating. They shield against strong wind and increase breathability as internal moisture rises. Hardshells (LONAK (men / women), LONAK-XT (men / women), SKORA (men / women)) offer maximum protection; the softshell RAVEN (men / women) is ideal for dry conditions during ascent.
5. Pants: Mobility and Durability
RIMO (men / women) (breathable softshell, Martindale-reinforced) is designed for dynamic climbing. NUNATAK (men / women) provides hardshell protection when snow or moisture require it.
6. Advice from Vincent Defrasne
“Remove a layer before overheating”: preventing moisture buildup avoids sudden cooling. Zippers and hoods should allow quick ventilation without sacrificing protection.
7. Field Feedback from Mike Horn
Extreme testing optimized hood design, shoulder fit, and resistance to moisture/freezing cycles. Real-world functionality drives the design.
8. 100% European and Responsible Design
All fabrics come from Europe (Italy, France, Germany, Portugal). Manufacturing is European. Wool is RWS-certified. Sympatex membranes are recyclable. The goal: sustainable performance.
Conclusion
Ski touring requires an adaptable system: breathable on ascent, protective on descent, effective against wind and moisture. The AYAQ wardrobe, developed with Vincent Defrasne and tested by Mike Horn, precisely meets these mountain demands.
