13. 12. 2024
Imagine standing at the top of a snowy ridge, untouched powder below you, and the challenge to carve your trail where no one has ever been before. No turnstiles, no lines, no groomed pistes. That’s freeride — the adrenaline dream of every skier yearning for a perfect connection with the mountains. Get inspired by the experts at Freerideguides and find out why freeride is worth it and how to dive into it fully and safely.
Freeride isn’t just about skiing. It’s about emotions, moments, and every turn you carve into untouched snow. It’s a sport for anyone who wants more — more adrenaline, more freedom, more wild nature. The Freerideguides team explains it best:
Freeride is the pinnacle of skiing artistry. If you’re not a die-hard piste skier, you’ll eventually be drawn to freeriding.
Riding off-piste takes you to steeper slopes. Freeride demands not only excellent technique but also the ability to read and anticipate terrain. When you hit that flow, your body switches to autopilot. You’re not thinking about turns; you’re looking ahead, choosing your line, and with every carve, you become one with the mountains. At the bottom, you stop and look back at your trail in the powder. That’s the magic of freeride — freedom, technique, and pure joy of the ride.
1. 20°
This marks the minimum slope steepness capable of triggering an avalanche. Even seemingly gentle slopes can pose a danger.
2. 12 minutes
This is the critical window for a 90% survival chance after being buried in an avalanche—provided you can breathe and have no life-threatening injuries.
These numbers highlight one crucial fact: Avalanches can occur even near ski runs. A 20° slope is like a typical black piste, just a little steeper. In an avalanche emergency, quick action by your group is critical.
When skiing off-piste, always:
Attending a multi-day avalanche course is highly recommended, ideally one led by certified UIAGM mountain guides. Just like a driving school doesn’t make you an expert driver, attending any course won’t instantly make you an experienced freerider or mountaineer. Approach the mountains with respect and start with defensive strategies when planning ascents and descents.
The guys from Freerideguides are entering their tenth season this year, and they definitely know what freeride is all about. They offer freeride camps in places you may not have even heard of. Safety? It’s their top priority. They’ll teach you new skills, show you the best lines, and take you to places you might not dare to go on your own. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned rider, these guys can help you take your freeriding to the next level.
Freeride is freedom, adrenaline, and a connection with nature. With the right people and equipment, you can experience the mountains in a way few others do—authentically and to the fullest. Check out the gear in our e-shop or stores and get ready for a ride that will open up a whole new dimension of the mountains.
