Source for approach skis?

[Doug_Hutchinson]

Anyone know any shops in the pacific northwest that stock approach skis (aka firn skis, aka figls, aka AT skis about 130cm)? I am looking for real, waxable skis to use with my plastic climbing boots.

[snoboy]

quote:

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Originally posted by Doug Hutchinson:

Anyone know any shops in the pacific northwest that stock approach skis (aka firn skis, aka figls, aka AT skis about 130cm)? I am looking for real, waxable skis to use with my plastic climbing boots.

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Try MEC in Vancouver. They don't ship skis over the border though, I don't think. Have a look at what they got here: Approach skis at MEC

[vegetablebelay]

So does anybody have any opinions on either of the two shown at MEC?

[Cpt.Caveman]

I thought I saw a pair like those last time I was at Marmot Smellevue..

[mtnnut]

Of the MEC options shown, the Karhu one looks like a going up model only (skins permanently attached). They are wider for more floatation too. The Hagan might be more versatile, particularly if you wanted to ski down.

 

You might find other options from Alpine ski companies that sell what the industry is calling skiboards. I'm sure there are others, but I think I've seen Salomon with such an item.

[ryland_moore]

I would check out ski swaps or just buy a used pair of shorter boards. I just picked up a brand new pair of shaped Hart's 160cm for $100 at the local ski swap. Planning on putting on some Silveretta 500s for approaches and then can ski down.

[layton]

I've concidered this too and when I get some $$, I'm gonna buy a pair of children's skiis, and screw my silvretta 303's to em. For goin' up only. I'll go down in em, but I fall on my face in the best of skiis so why bother?

[Skisports]

I would check around and look for a beginner to novice/intermidate ski. This will give you tons of felxablity and make it really really easy to turn so those that can ski can use them with mountainerring boots. The only problem is in icy conditions..... yeah right they will not ski. and Beginner skis are all over the place. Cheep. 100bucks...

[JoshK]

I've seen Rossi Rebel Kid's skis in 120cm -> 150cm lengths on sale for $80, brand new. I was seriously considering getting a pair of kiddie skis for an approach option.