One of the most fun things we get to do as photographers is to see and use new products well in advance of their release. This was certainly the case when Petzl France contacted us to shoot photos for their new NAO Headlamp. Our job was to shoot trail and mountain running photos using this new lighting technology. Job done, the headlamps were our’s to keep using and put to the test for DolomiteSport.

It is very obvious that more and more people are using lighting systems to get them out after daylight hours. And why not? The lights have advanced to such a state that most anything is possible. Nowhere is this more true than with this new offering from Petzl.

Reactive Lighting is the technology. Above the NAO’s two lamps is a sensor which immediately interprets the distance and intensity at which the light must function. Aim the headlamp at your feet and you have enough light & contrast to see, raise your head and direct the light to infinity and the light instantly becomes a monstrously powerful high beam; easily enough light for descending on skis quickly, scope the next pitches or see where your running trail is taking you. The beam distance is about 100 meters at full intensity. But, aim it to your feet or just meters in front of you and the beam is back to normal headlamp output, saving both battery power and your eyes. Simply put, the headlamp instantly provides exactly the right amount of light you require based on where you look.

Petzl NAO Headlamp front view. The sensor is above the lamps. The large switch is on the left side in the photo, the black square knob.

I have been using the headlamp ski mountaineering training and have found it perfect. For descending, there is the added option of being able to change the light from reactive to a fixed high power beam with the quick flip of a large switch for gloved hands – easy. With the high beam activated, descents, even at the highest speeds and technical terrain are zero issue. This light can replace those massive Silva lights popular for so long.

While descending recently with a friend after a night ski mountaineering training session, I skied behind and cast my light in front of my friend. He said he felt like a snow cat was following him.

Here in Europe, the LED Lenser headlamps have become quite popular, denting the market for both BD and Petzl. The LED Lenser was an instant hit thanks to its massively powerful high beam in a small package. I too jumped on board and got one so I was able to compare the Petzl NAO and LED Lenser side by side. The Petzl NAO is much more powerful, only slightly larger, with better battery life and much more comfortable to wear on either the head or helmet. Perhaps the only slight disadvantage of the NAO is its size. If you’re familiar with the Petzl MYO RXP lamp, the NAO is just slightly larger but certainly not much heavier. However, for the small amount of added bulk, you have a lighthouse beacon on your head.

Petzl NAO Headlamp rear view with battery. The head strap is a combo elastic band and adjustable cinch cord which has proven very comfortable and secure with no irritating wiggle.

My battery tests are still a work in progress. But, with the NAO’s rechargeable battery, I seem to be getting about 6-8 hours on reactive lighting, and Petzl tells me this will drop to just a few hours if kept on a fixed high beam. With reactive lighting and the occasional switch to fixed high beam, I expect around 4-5  hours of battery life. I believe this is conservative, more than enough light for most uses. If you do need more battery life, carry a spare, they can be switched out while on the fly.

The battery itself is USB and capable of being charged from an iPhone charger with USB cable, ditto with the car charger – this has been handy.

System Summary

1. On/Off switch is easily adjusted with gloves on. Finally!!!  Bravo Petzl!

2. Extremely comfortable on the head.

3. It’s obvious real users designed the NAO.

4. You always have just the right amount of light, never left wanting more.

5. Petzl high quality.

Petzl tells me they have some additional features for this light coming soon… The NAO Headlamp will be available July 2012.

For the mountain sport athlete looking to perform at night, this is the light to use.

See and learn more about the NAO at Petzl.com

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Patitucci’s Picks for Best Outdoor Industry Gear

As longtime professional mountain sport photographers, we get to see, use, and really get to know a lot of outdoor industry gear. And, as fulltime athletes in the very sports we photograph, we fully understand what makes for a quality product, and what makes for stuff we would just prefer to ship right back to the manufacturer.

This is our list of favorite gear, some newly discovered, others continuing to confirm as ideal. To comply with some blogging rule, yes, more than likely we were given the gear for free. But, should we need to make a purchase, these are the selects.

Dan trail running in Skins and Rudy Project photochromic lenses

1. Rudy Project Sunglasses : Specifically, the ImpactX Photochromic Clear lens which Janine discovered to be the ideal prescription lens – one lens for everything. This sport lens goes from completely clear in the shadows to nearly glacier glass dark for long days skiing. Outside Magazine felt much the same and gave this lens Gear of the Year. Visit Rudy Project for more info.

2. SKINS Recovery Compression & Sport Clothing : Here is a line of clothing that is perfectly designed for running & biking while also providing the benefits of compression. Compression calf tights are seen on just about every Euro ultra runner, and more and more in the US as people test, and realize the product’s benefits. We actually contacted Skins after seeing the product on all the local road cyclists, a nearby shop is selling it and people are buying – “What is up?”, we thought. Now, we are sold, and not just for running, cycling and especially recovery – but also for ski mountaineering racing and even airplane sitting performance – wear the compression calf tights on your next flight and feel an improvement in “heavy legs”. You will be sold like us. Visit Skins to see the full line of what they have to offer.

Kurt Astner climbing Zion's Moonlight Buttress in Montura clothing, a line he helps develop

3. Montura Clothing : In recent years, much of the high end mountain clothing is both too big for me or trading performance/function for fashion. I am 5’8″ and super lean, American X Small is often too big, and as an athlete, I do not care to wear boxy, baggy, poorly fitting clothing. I want fitted performance clothing. So, I began looking at European gear. In 2007 I found the Italian mountain clothing line of Montura, it was like discovering a brand I had been designing for myself and for my exact needs. In 2010 we began to get involved with this company that is now opening stores throughout northern Italy. Their growth and success are moving at speeds that have stymied even building a website. When I asked, “How can you not have a website?”, the answer was something along the lines of, “Right now, we don’t really need one.” Instead they seem to be focusing on product development, and everything I get from them is designed exactly right for alpinism, ski touring, mountain running, climbing or just simple hiking or travel. Keep an eye on Montura, but sorry America, you’ll have to make a trip to the Alps or Dolomites to get these goods.

The Neo Sleeping Pad; superlight, bomber and comfy

4. Cascade Designs Neo Sleeping Pad : A couple of years back, we were shooting much of Cascade Designs advertising. One day I received an email with info about a shoot we had to do of a new product, but that I would be required to sign a non-disclosure agreement to even discuss it or see it. Enter the Neo sleeping pad. A sleeping pad? All this top secret talk – come on… Days later the pad arrived, we had a look, shot what was needed and then stored away our prototype Neo. Living in Europe, there isn’t so much need for a sleeping pad as huts have replaced campsites for most of what we do.

Then, in 2010, we camped, a lot – in the snow, bivvies, on rock, beaches, and just general backpacking. The Neo was put into action and the quality became immediately obvious during a winter ski tour which had us sleeping out on the snow – the pad was amazing, it weighs nothing, takes up no room in the pack and I may as well have been laying on warm sand. I felt nothing but warm, insulating cushion beneath me. Ditto on rock. And, as we are hard on gear I was a bit worried abut popping it – a year later it seems a non-issue. Visit Cascade Designs site for full info.

Janine cruising the last 4th class to the top of Mt. Whitney in Deuter's Speedlite 15

5. Deuter Backpacks : If there has to be one top award, Deuter is it. We use backpacks just about every singly day of the year; ski touring, ski mountaineering, trail running, climbing, alpine climbing, mountain biking, even traveling and photography work. Early in the 2000′s, we were shooting ad photos for another backpack company – at that time we began splitting our years between Europe and the US. As we did more in the European mountains, I couldn’t help but notice that about half the people were wearing Deuter. Why? I studied them in a shop and immediately recognized them for what they are; simple, efficient, and perfectly made. I bought one, the Guide 30L. Soon, it was the only pack I would wear. The German company isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel, they are just trying to fine tune what they know, each and every year, a tweak here and a tweak there – the packs remain much the same. Models go out to real users; mountain guides, high end athletes or just folks who get out on a regular basis – their input clearly goes into these tweaks.

Big packs, small packs, it doesn't matter - everyone is happy with Deuter's design

Fortunately, some years later we found ourselves shooting Deuter’s advertising and the product line became our own. This is a company that I admire in all their function. Now, they are in the US and clearly making a dent in the market. Our favorites remain the GuideLite line, the Speedlite Series, the Edge 30L, the AC Lites and the Race. Actually, pick a pack, any pack, it will be perfect – even their sleeping bags, unrivaled. Visit Deuter.com and go nuts.

In the coming days we will present an interview with one of Deuter’s Chief Designers, just to see how it all works. Stay tuned.

Finally, a quick list of honorable mentions: Smartwool, Patagonia, Dynafit’s DNA Race Boot, Honey Stinger’s Waffle, and of course, the lovely…… iPad. It’ll be fun to see what 2011 brings, hint hint… neon.

Ski Rando Race Gear

Thanks to being inundated with questions about ski rando race gear all winter, we put together a short video to explain what I’ve learned racing in Europe. I am by no means an expert, but I was immersed in the Euro race scene all season and managed to do well in some races, including the famous Sellaronda.

The goal of this video is to introduce Americans to the gear used in Europe. From what I have seen in parts of the US, the interest is soaring – yet everyone asks…… “What gear do you use and where do we get it?”

Hopefully this video helps – Bear with my awkwardness, I am used to being on the other side of the lens.

Ski Rando Race Retailer

Thanks to Mountain Gear for the help last season ! Check out what they have to offer rando racers for this coming winter – they will be your source.

Ski Mountaineering Information

Also, the United States Ski Mountaineering Association’s website is the place to head for race info and additional links for all things Ski Mountaineering Racing.

Twitter friends Jim & Dana getting ready for the Maratona dles Dolomites

But this is a Mountain Sport site… how does a post about Twitter work in relation to the Dolomites, Sports, or Inspired Mountain Living? For me, quite a lot. Twitter, while seemingly a waste of time at first glance, is an amazing tool to connect people. While Facebook has taken over for monitoring what people are up to, Twitter takes it one step further and gets you connected and engaged with other people who you share an interest with. For whatever reason, Twitter directly connects you with people like yourself, and it allows a better platform from which to interact with others.

When Twitter first came out I had a look, my first impression was, “Ridiculous”. Some time later I gave it a go, and after playing with it, gaining some followers, following my own feeds, I began to get it. Then, I really began to get it. After fine tuning who I follow, getting rid of the boring ones or those just wanting to sell things, I suddenly had a very interesting group of people and businesses from whom I gain valuable information about events, travel, things to do, and most importantly, interesting people to meet.

It isn’t just about gleaning info… Throughout my Twitter history, one of my closest friends was met, Italian Mountain Guide Alberto De Giuli (@albertodegiuli). And just last week, numerous cyclists came together in the Dolomites for the Maratona dles Dolomites, all of whom (us) met on Twitter. We spent some great days together cycling the passes and then enjoying local cuisine in the evenings. There was a lot of laughter about the fact that we all met via Twitter, but there we were, gathered in an amazing place, sharing a great experience and all truly like minded and friends to be.

This is what makes Twitter great. Not just the Tweets but the real conversations and connections. Of course we use Twitter to promote our photography, and even more, we use it to direct people seeking information about Mountain Sports and the Dolomites to this very website. It works. Our trail running tours hosted by Holimites (@holimites) have filled with people who followed us on Twitter when we ran it last summer. This summer, they are doing it.

How does Twitter Work?

Once you have a Twitter account, start to find those you would like to follow, see who your friends are following and who is following them. Start making connections. This will change over time as you discover some seemingly interesting Twitterers are actually big bores. For me, the Twitterers I quickly drop are those that only broadcast themselves, clearly read nothing of what others write, never engage anyone, or tweet every single thing they do. For these, the Un-Follow button is the next step. Ciao! It is interesting to note how many big outdoor industry companies fall into this category, “Check out our…” over and over again. Interestingly, over time I have noticed I follow companies less and individuals more. Probably because the companies are less likely to actually engage anyone, and ultimately, I am seeking friends and networking opportunities, not info about products.

Jim & Dana Road Biking the Passo delle Erbe, Dolomites

Don’t just broadcast, interact – this is communication. Re-Tweet what others post if you think it is worthy of sharing, comment on things, consider who you follow and who follows you to be your friend for in time they may become just that. Twitter is all about getting engaged, whether it be through actual Twittering replies, Re-Tweets, or behind the scenes messaging (Twitter works like a direct message service as well).

If there is a big event going on; the Tour de France, Western States 100, Tour du Mont Blanc, etc… look around for the live feeds and you can have all the info streaming to you if you are out and about.

And Lists… Lists are key; They are like categories. I have my News List, Cycling, Mountain Athletes, and so on. If I only want to read the news, I go to my News list, and there I do not have to see what my cycling friends are up to.

Finally, getting to know Twitter takes both time and a finely tuned list of those you follow. Agreed, it is quite silly at first. But for the mountain sport athlete there is endless info out there, fun people to meet, and some very cool things going on being shared via Twitter posts. Lance Armstrong is the perfect example.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Best Twitter Applications

I use Nambu on my Mac Desktop for 90% of my Twittering – it is nearly perfect.  If I need to schedule work Tweets, or monitor my Stats, I use HootSuite.

On the iPhone I use Twittelator and HootSuite for iPhone. For working with photos, to make them more interesting (Dubrovnik photo example), we use Photogene, Tilt Shift Gen, Lo Mob and Camera Bag.

We can be followed via:

@patitucciphoto – Our photo business

@dolomitesport – Our primary account for fun mountain sports, photos, trips and networking

@dolomitenetwork – Where we support great businesses and tourism opportunities within the Italian Dolomites

And, hint hint, we have a really great collection of people to follow…

Do you have experiences on Twitter? If so, good or bad, please share in our Comments section below.

Some recently Tweeted photos from Mountain Sports Fun & Travel

Cow Bike standoff

Croatia

Dolomites Mountain Biking

Dolomites Trail Running

Dolomites Road Biking

Mountain Biking Dolomites

Peaceful road biking

Dolomites Camp

Sierra Nevada: The Range of Light & Fast

FOMO —Fear Of Missing Out—I have it, in the form of an extreme case. Years ago, when we first settled in California’s Eastern Sierra Nevada, the FOMO came on strong. Living in such close proximity to so many mountain sport options, how could it not? Each day the question; Do we go alpine climbing, sport climbing, bouldering, mountain running, mountain biking, or hiking? No matter how good our choice turned out, we were always left fearing that we had missed out on something better.

Janine running beneath Keeler Needle and the Mt. Whitney Group

But with inspiration from local ultra runner Phill Kiddoo and his suggestions of “Run-a-Bagging” big backcountry peaks, our recovery from FOMO began. Each time I mentioned a classic alpine route, Phill countered with, “I’ve run that.” He was rolling all of our outdoor passions into single summer days, running into alpine areas and climbing easy ridge routes to summits. Countless granite fins, towers, massifs and ridge crests guard many peaks but most offer easy scrambling routes requiring no more than time, trail-running shoes and a caffeine buzz. In fact, California’s Sierra Nevada is a truly ideal playground for mountain sports. Its warm, dry summers with minimal thunderstorm activity means possibilities are limited not by conditions, but rather by conditioning and motivation.

Our first steps toward FOMO recuperation began over the winter, when we created a hit list of local mountain runs. Virtually every trailhead offered a worthy objective. Come late June, as the snowpack gave way to dirt and bare rock, trails re-emerged and four months of backcountry running awaited Janine and I. We were chomping at the bit, since we had put in many training miles at lower elevations and had the fever to get up high.

Running Banner Peak

Dan headed into (l-r) Ritter and Banner

Our first objective was Banner Peak outside of the ski town of Mammoth Lakes, just 40 minutes north of Bishop. There, at the Agnew Meadow Trailhead, we set out pre-sunrise, facing 20 miles round trip and 5000 feet of climbing, a glacier crossing, a narrow snow couloir and a 3^rd-class rock ridge (no rope required but some exposure) to the summit of 12,936-foot Banner Peak.

Janine’s case of FOMO is much less severe than my own; in fact, she is mostly happy wherever she finds herself. For her, running to the base of Banner Peak without packs would have been a fulfilling day. I wanted the satisfaction of reaching the summit. Janine gave in to my plan and we began sorting and packing gear, one of the great joys of Run-a-Bagging is the combination of not having to use much gear but that which you do take must be perfect, therefore careful research (shopping) must be performed.

Janine headed up the snowfield splitting Ritter and Banner from the south

Our packs were small running models, just big enough for tights, wind shirt, hat, gloves and as many energy bars and gels that we could cram in. I would later learn that some friends measured these running peaks not in miles or hours but in the number of energy-gels consumed. Janine, being Swiss, typically measures her own runs in the number of Toblerone bars she can get down before their Matterhorn-like form succumbs to the afternoon heat. We also strapped super light Kahtoola crampons to our packs for the glacier and couloir. Finally, we prefer hand bottles in the backcountry, since they are quick to fill in creeks, save weight in the pack and make great palm shock absorbers when we stumble while gawking at the views.

The trails from most Eastern Sierra trailheads are steep, but Agnew Meadows is a rolling cruise through a river canyon. We spent the first couple of miles in the dark enjoying the solitude and quiet that only pre-dawn provides. Cold, wet grass overhanging the trail quickly drenched our skinny runners’ legs and made us long for the summer sun to fill the canyon. As the black sky grew lighter, there, looking impossibly far away, rose the bulk of Banner Peak and its even larger neighbor, Mount Ritter (13,143 feet).

Glissading the Ritter Banner couloir

The specter of our objective was usurped by our immediate need—to outrun the swarming mosquitoes capitalizing on our casual pace. Much of the trail follows Shadow Creek, which flows over a series of granite shelves creating numerous waterfalls. Soon we were above tree line at the glacier, where we swapped modes from running to power hiking over the steepening snow/ice. We wore running shorts all the way up the couloir, where we caught two hikers who were also gunning for Banner Peak. It was an interesting contrast.

Us: trail-running shoes, short shorts, bright red crampons, both hands strapped to water bottles and smiles on our faces.

Them: mountain boots, full climbing attire, large packs, ice axes and smiles on their faces (or were they just laughing at us?).

“Where did you come from?” they asked.

“Agnew Meadows Trailhead,” I answered.

“And you’re here already? No way. ”

“No, really, we ran in.”

“Ran in? Why?”

“Uh, because we’re trail runners …” I decided to leave it at that and not mention the fact that we would be home by early afternoon enjoying a pale ale and plotting the next trip.

Janine and I topped out in the couloir, removed our crampons and headed up the ridge. On this section, we appreciated the versatility of modern trail shoes – especially those with sticky rubber for good grip on rock. Less than an hour of scrambling took us to the summit.

It wasn’t even noon yet, so we kicked back and had some laughs reading the bizarre, altitude-enhanced, summit-register entries as they usually involve God, “I can’t believe I made it” testimonials or something resembling an Oscar speech.

I added my own, knowing our climbing friends would be along in a few minutes. “Agnew Meadow to Banner Peak, car to car—the Sierra really is made to be the Range of Light and Fast.”

After descending the rock section we whooped down the glacier in full glissade mode. Freezing cold sections of creekside trail from the morning were now tempting swimming holes in the afternoon heat. The thought of sandwiches beat the need to cool off, and, besides, we were still embracing the joy of movement. It had been a full day and we were in love with “Run-a-Bagging.” By combining so many things we love, we had found the cure for FOMO and look forward to many years of treatment.

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DolomiteSport’s note… This article was originally written in 2004 and published in Trail Runner Magazine. Looking back, I see it truly was the beginning of a love affair with mountain running in to climb easy peaks. Countless similar trips have been done since in mountains throughout the world.

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Eastern Sierra Nevada Trail Running Resources

Basecamp

Dan cooling off in one of countless High Sierra lakes

Bishop (pop. 3800) is strategically located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, and serves as the jumping-off point to countless trail systems, most within an hour of town.

Getting There. Bishop lies on California Highway 395 along the eastern escarpment of the range, approximately three and a half hours south of Reno and four to five hours north of Los Angeles. The town of Mammoth Lakes (40 minutes away) now has flights in and out from LA, Reno, and San Jose – check in with them for more info. Mammoth may also serve as your basecamp and is higher in elevation and much cooler than Bishop for mid-Summer visits.

Seasons. While summer days can hit 100 degrees in town, Sierra trailheads 20 minutes away can be quite chilly. July through September are the best months for mountain running.

Resources. Drop into Bishop’s prestigious running shop, Sage to Summit on Main Street for maps and trail information. Sage to Summit’s owner Karen Schwartz, is currently compiling running trail information for a soon-to-be-released guide to the Eastern Sierra.

R.J. Secor’s The High Sierra; Peaks, Passes and Trails is the bible for local hiking and climbing. Remember though: a great hiking trail may not always be suitable for running due to the surface and steepness. The book’s information is best for ascending the peak’s themselves. For running selects again, Sage to Summit is your resource.

Food and Drink. Bishop’s Black Sheep Cafe is where to get your morning buzz & carbs as well as to meet like-minded trail mammals. Evenings are best spent at the Whiskey Creek Happy Hour in downtown Bishop, or better yet, on your tailgate tucked away in some cool backcountry parking spot near a trailhead.

Sierra Tick List

Jason Hamm headed to Mt. Emerson

Bishop Area

> North Lake—Piute Pass—Mount Emerson : A great warmup for Sierra mountain running. A six-mile casual climb to Piute Pass serves as a primer for the thousand feet of talus to the summit of Mount Emerson.

> South Lake—Bishop Pass—Mount Agassiz : Running to Bishop Pass is a local tradition. Adding the northwest slope of Mount Agassiz makes it even better. An almost entirely run-able six-mile trail puts you at the base of the switchbacks to Bishop Pass, attain the col, follow the slopes where they drop onto the pass then head straight to the summit. Stunning views of the Palisade Crest await.

> Evolution Loop—North Lake to South Lake : THE Sierra classic. Replacing summits with passes, this 40- to 70-mile loop will have you seriously considering Eastern Sierra real estate. A variety of early options exist to customize the length. Choose the Lamarck Col over Piute Pass to eliminate about 25 miles. No matter what you choose you will end up running the John Muir Trail (JMT) through the Evolution Basin, arguably the Sierra Nevada’s perfect spot. Next up is Muir Pass; consider the JMT Thru-Runner’s body condition at this point—mile 100 of their 215-mile journey.

Janine running into Bishop Pass

Janine climbing Mt. Agassiz's north slopes high above Bishop Pass, 3rd class

Janine Patitucci running in the Sierra high country, Evolution Loop

> Glacier Lodge/South Fork Big Pine Creek—East Face of Middle Palisade : The choice for the mountaineer-runner. A steep trail run and cross-country travel brings you to a small glacier and the East Face of the 14,000-foot Middle Palisade Peak. Here you will curse the author at the site of the imposing wall in front of you. But really, it is 4^th class, quite safe and easy (I too was intimidated). Gain the face by the right side of the prow where it splits the glacier.

Dan Patitucci on the Shepherd Pass Trail

> Shepherd Pass—Mount Tyndall : If a remote, grueling 12-mile uphill run to a long ridge to 14,000 feet sounds like fun, this is the run for you. Shepherd Pass is known for being hard and mentally tough, as no matter how much you run, the pass never seems to get closer – I suggest starting well before first light. Luckily, it is also known for being wondrous in its alpine setting.

Mammoth Area

> Agnew Meadow—Banner Peak : As described above in the feature story, this is our favorite of the bunch. Get an early start to avoid afternoon heat when running out of the canyon.

Mountain Trail Running and Peak Bagging : Gear List

Shoes. Trail-running shoes with sticky rubber are a must. We are longtime La Sportiva fans as they have the mountain running shoe dialed in with real support, protection and sticky rubber, the combination of which is helpful for Run-a-Bagging.

Clothing. Mid summer, the Sierra are warm, hot even, but, they are mountains and as such, anything can happen. If the forecast is good, my usual set up is running shorts, light weight tights, running-T, long sleeve, thin insulated vest, super light rain shell. Of course, a beanie and gloves. Extra socks might be  good idea both for that fresh feeling and to avoid the dirt and grit rub. Thunderstorms are the threat for getting wet and cold.

Trail running packs should fit trim and tight against the back

Probably fine...?

Packs. Just large enough to accommodate food & water, clothing (see above), and map. Pack stability is important, test yours on short and long runs before you commit to a serious day. Packs can end up rubbing, causing sore necks, or, even after feeling comfortable in the shop, being hopelessly uncomfortable on hour 4. The perfect pack is out there, find it.

Hydration. We like hand-held bottles, although bladder systems work well too. Hand bottles are easily monitored,  easy to fill creekside and keep weight off your back. Sierra water may be crystal clear, but using a water filter or chemical treatment is wise. Up to you… sometimes I do, sometimes I don’t.

Calories & Salt. In recent years I have gone back to normal food when out, it is pretty tough to beat a homemade burrito. Just be sure to have a good mix of of salty and sweet. If you do bars, remember, the Sierra can be hot, choose accordingly, Larabar and Clif Bar work well. Finally, even in the High Sierra you are sweating, probably a lot— consider replacing lost electrolytes with a supplement like E-Caps.

Kahtoola crampons are great for spring ascents of high peaks, like here on Mt. Dana

First aid. Carry athletic tape and gauze for patching skinned knees, etc. For lightweight kits, check out Adventure Medical Kits. The Sierra Nevada are a high mountain range with many passes over 12,000 feet and loads of summits over 13,000. Know your limits, pay attention to headaches, don’t just treat them with drugs.

Crampons. Most routes don’t require them, but those that do will have you wanting a pair of lightweight Kahtoolas. They’re made to work on hiking and running shoes.

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Shop Mountain Gear for the best trail running shoes, clothing & training equipment

Wool vs. Synthetics

Over the years I have worn a lot of synthetic clothing. For whatever reason I am drawn to sports which synthetics seem well suited, typically in the form of lycra or spandex. Cycling, nordic racing, running, ski rando racing, etc… my games, all wrapped in lycra.

But then a few years back we started doing much of Smartwool’s advertising photography, at which time the Creative Manager started pushing wool on me. I politely dodged the idea and carried on with my own beliefs in syntheticism. I think it’s my road biking background that tainted me. Wool is something Eddy Merckx wore – in the 70’s… In my mind, we evolved into, uh, plastic clothing. Expensive plastic clothing! It pills, stinks, melts to your skin when you crash and has inconsistent performance. Did I mention it is made from oil?
Finally, as I seem to be kind of off the back with the trend, I decided to try the wool thing. The Smartwool Creative Manager, who has since become a friend, sent me a big box of fun hats, gloves and baselayers (Thanks!). I agreed to use it and review it – but the policy holds – I speak my mind.

Boot packing with the Lightweight Zip and a Microweight T

Reviews are subjective – is the reviewer someone you are willing to listen to? Brief Resume: I have close to 100 days skiing the backcountry each season and am in the mountains 320+ days each year – I have 23 years in the Outdoor Industry as both a professional photographer and athlete.

Smartwool : The Facts (as I see them)

Performance: I have primarily been using Smartwool’s Micro and Lightweight baselayers, both have a wider range of comfort than what I am used to in synthetics, meaning they keep me warm in the cold temps but not too warm when the temps increase. The feel is one of the things I like best, the Merino wool feels like cotton but performs as needed for temperature regulation and breathability.
Wicking/Drying: Wool suffers a bit from sweating, it does stay wet longer. But, it doesn’t feel clammy against the skin. Also, I found that as long as the layering system is not too far out of its temperature range, and gets some airflow, the wool will dry quickly.
Stink Factor: Unrivaled… Smartwool does not stink, no matter how hard I tried, and oh did I try, it just doesn’t stink, even the socks. Some of that 100 days in the backcountry were consecutive, without washing. Friends appreciated the switch to wool, many have switched themselves on stink factor alone.
Criticism?: I would like to see more sporty designs for athletes. Tighter fitting with more elastic that allows the sleeves to be pushed up without then becoming baggy. Also, designs incorporating different weights and materials into a paneled performance piece. Finally, for the baselayers; some stripes, accents, something! I don’t see this stuff as underwear, in many ways it is technical clothing, I want it to look the part.

Smartwool's Merino is undoubtedly more comfortable and cozy

Smartwool Summary

The Merino wool that Smartwool uses is the best feeling material against my skin. Wool seems to have a wider comfort range than synthetics but still, for high exertion activities it is important to not over layer. Get to know the systems and the temperature range they work within. And the socks? Simply the best, they last forever and maintain a snug, cozy fit.

Best of all, wool supports my firm belief that all things natural are best. I am sold.

Want to see more photos from the Italian Dolomites and our recent Smartwool Shoot, click here.

Support Smartwool, it keeps sheep employed Globwooly

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Visit Smartwool’s fun site complete with many photos from PatitucciPhoto

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Disclaimer : In no way has PatitucciPhoto/DolomiteSport been paid to do this Review, it was our idea based on being happy with the product.

While packing for a weekend of Ski Rando Racing (Ski Mountaineering Racing) in the Italian Dolomites, I though to snap a quick photo to present exactly what it is that goes and is typically required.

I have two races to choose from tomorrow and am prepared for each. One is a frantic, technical race (Tour de Sas) that is a result of the dangerous avalanche conditions right now – the original course had to be cancelled due to extreme risk. The other race is above Cortina d’Ampezzo and is a 750 meter uphill night race – which suits me perfectly and is my likely choice. I’ll probably shoot the Tour de Sas in the morning and then race at night, an endurance event all its own.

So here it is, the goods for Euro Ski Rando Racing – you’ll note everything is ultralight (and it gets much lighter) and minimalistic, only in severely cold weather are more clothes put on for descents. The idea is to keep moving, although there are minimal gear requirements for safety.

Skis : Ski Trab Race Aero World Cup

Poles : Ski Trab

Boots : Dynafit DyNAs

Helmet : Dynafit Rando Race Helmet

Goggles : Rudy Project

One piece suit – oh ya – Team Badia Sport

Skins : 2 pair (sometimes required) Contours 50mm

Probe : Carbon ultralight probe (required)

Waterbottle

Backpack : Dynafit Race Pack with ski carrying system

Heart Rate Monitor : Garmin Forerunner 405

Emergency Blanket (required)

Avalanche Beacon (required)

Ultralight Shovel (required)

Socks : Smartwool

Gloves : one pair light, one pair insulated

–missing items, shells for both top and bottom

Isn’t it mandatory these days for Product Reviews to reveal whether or not the reviewer was given products for free? If so, I hereby admit that yes, Dynafit recently sent me a huge box of goods – for a photo shoot. But “free” gear does not always make for “good” gear, so when something is good I like to let it be known.

Look like a fashion champ in Dynafit's new clothing

Announcing : the Dynafit Eruption Down jacket for men, and the Women’s version, the Aurora Down jacket, both – perfect. Two thumbs up, 5 star, you get the idea.

Why? And what are they? Super light puffy down jackets that compress down to nearly nothing for in your pack. Pull them out, shake them a time or two and voila, a form fitting, sport cut, ultralight, super warm puffy. During this time shooting skiing in the Italian Dolomites, we have been living in them, both in the mountains and in town. I have been keeping it on to stay warm shooting, then skiing with it and loving the comfy, cozy warmth.

The material is a light nylon that I have deemed bomber after my camera’s flash mount snagged on it and was forcefully torn across the surface of the jacket making a terrible sound of shredding material. My fears were for nothing as the jacket had not even a mark.

So why are we impressed by a jacket that nearly every outdoor clothing company offers? Because unlike so many others, this one fits snug, yet flexes as you move, zero constriction, no extra material, just a form fitting cocoon of warmth made from quality materials. Of course it is down, so don’t get it wet, and don’t leave it stuffed in a stuffsack all summer.

Visit the Dynafit site for all the info on these jackets and their growing line of performance clothing

Tea Time in the Dolomites

The men's and women's Dynafit down jackets

Ski Mountaineering Introduction

Ski Running terrain, the stuff you used to dread

Let’s just start by saying that I recognize that this is not a post for every kind of skier. For whatever reason, the subject of going backcountry skiing for more than just ripping turns or dropping into steep couloirs is more than some can handle. I know thanks to a few pieces of hate mail I recently received for suggesting (here) that there may be something other than fat skis and big attitude as reason to go skiing in the mountains. That “something” was light backcountry ski gear and the idea of backcountry skiing as an endurance sport. I also received more than a few comments and emails praising the post and asking for more details. It is for these people that I once again write about this idea of Ski Rando Racing, Ski Running, or Ski Mountaineering – whatever it is called in the US. It is so young that it has yet to really have a name stick. So here are my thoughts about this sport that I am sure would be phenomenally popular if given a chance.

Maybe Ski Running is a good term as in some ways it is a fit. If you are a trail runner, road biker, mountain biker, nordic skier, or hiker …and also a backcountry skier – Ski Running combines all of these into a winter sport that can be done alone on all that lower angle terrain you have been ignoring while headed to the steeper stuff. No, it is not about the turns, it is about the experience of going to the mountains, moving quickly, efficiently and becoming fantastically fit from it all. Think nordic skiing light but backcountry capable, and think perfect singletrack where you decide to lay it down.

For me, the opportunities opened up when I saw the gear. Having previously lived in the Mammoth Lakes area of California, backcountry skiing meant telemarking. I ignored that and promptly locked my heels down many years back when AT gear became more efficient. Nevertheless, the setups were still a bit clunky and heavy. Dynafit certainly helped lighten the load but the typical US gear selection was still about skiing down, not necessarily up, even though 90% of the backcountry skiers life is spent going…. up.

The Euro racing scene

As I started spending more time in Europe, specifically the Italian Dolomites, I discovered an entirely new gear selection. Superlight everything, taken to an even higher level thanks to the phenomenally popular European race culture. Suddenly there is backcountry gear not much heavier than a nordic set up that also allows one to ski well… down.

After three back to back ski trade shows in recent weeks it is becoming clear – this gear is beginning to make its way to the US and just might possibly be on shelves for the winter of 2011. Dynafit seems to be riding this wave most effectively with their new Dy.N.A. Race and TLT5 ultralight all purpose boot. Scarpa’s F1 has long been the standard, and continues to be king, but keep an eye as well on both Garmont and Scarpa’s new offerings.

Because I know the range so well, and especially the potential for big spring tours, I cannot imagine a much better place for ultralight ski touring gear than California’s Sierra Nevada – so maybe this post is for you guys. In Colorado, Utah and Wyoming it has already caught on, yet in the Sierra, where it is a perfect match, not quite yet.

A ski running day rather than a skiing day. But yes, the big bowl back there, already skied it.

Ski Rando Case Study

A beautiful, still winter day in the Dolomites. Time to get out for some exercise and I would live to ski, but with whom? It’s a Tuesday morning and I made no plans with friends. I grab my light ski gear and head out the door. Destination: frontcountry, lower angled, rolling terrain, ridgelines; in other words, safe.

3 hours later I have a 26km ski behind me with an average heart rate of 165. I still managed to gain 1200 meters and even made some nice powder turns in the trees. Sounds like a fun workout, much like going for a summer run or ride, but all while being in the mountains in the depths of winter.

Tiny heel post

My Ski Rando Gear

Skis: Ski Trab Duo Sintesi Aero – an all around superlight ski for both training and moderate tours, yet light enough to race on. There are lots of skis to choose from…

Bindings: Dynafit toe piece, Schia heel post. Be warned, many race heel bindings are not releasable. Dynafit does make a very light, releasable heel with the Speed Binding

Poles: Ski Trab with tall grip for multiple hand positions, length = floor to nearly shoulder height

Skins: Ski Trab narrow skins, they only go 2/3 of the ski length, You want some base showing to allow for skating and gliding

Boots: Scarpa F1′s

My thought about all of this is the simple fact that you can go out for a very real backcountry ski using extremely comfortable, light gear. Skinning will suddenly feel like trail running, but get to the top, rip your skins and enjoy the benefits of being on skis. It doesn’t matter if you intend to ever race, it’s really about getting out more often, experiencing the backcountry in a new way and implementing a different type of exercise for fitness – one that will have you all the more appreciative when you really go backcountry skiing.

Yep, it's a workout. Guess I can't hide the two stops at huts

The tallest sandwich on record post ski running workout yesterday

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US Ski Mountaineering Team Member Nina Silitch as Guest Contributor

In the coming days, Top US Team Member Nina Silitch will be writing up a post of her own with details about being at the top of the game while living in Europe as a Ski Randonee Racer (or is it Ski Running? Ski Mountaineering? What did we decide?)

Finally, Nina will include her thoughts on the US scene and how it is evolving. More about Nina at:  FasterSkier.com

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Further Ski Mountaineering Links

The US Ski Mountaineering Association

Boulder Performance Ski Rando Racing

Skin Transition Video

Local Dolomites Race – Tour de Sas Video

2006 World Championship Video

As a professional ski and mountain guide, I use and recommend Dynafit touring bindings. I also sometimes use and recommend Fritschi Diamir’s. I use and recommend Marker Barons with regular alpine boots. And yes, I even still use telemark gear on occasion.

Do I contradict myself by supporting such a broad spectrum of backcountry touring gear? No, I don’t think so. There used to be two types of skiing: resort skiing and backcountry skiing. Now, there are many ways to ski the mountains of the world: ski touring, ski mountaineering, ski running, XCD, ski camping, off-piste skiing, sidecountry, slackcountry, lift-accessed backcountry skiing, cat-skiing, heli-skiing, heli-hut skiing, sled ghost riding, speed flying, ski BASE jumping etc. Gear is becoming more specialized, designed to address a broader spectrum of backcountry ski activities. I like skiing. I like many types of skiing and I own a quiver of gear for all of them.

Internationally, one thing is agreed upon by most all backcountry skiers: heavier and fatter generally translates to: more efficient descent and less efficient ascent. Greater efficiency leads to increased levels of enjoyment. People want equipment that will maximize pleasure.

Classic ski touring in the Italian Dolomites

I think where the problem starts is American manufacturers selling the wrong equipment to the consumer. They create a few mid-range products that supposedly rule at everything – “a quiver of one.” These products can be OK, but they usually do nothing very well. One prominent company’s slogan for their backcountry equipment is, “It’s all about the down.” If it were really all about the down their skis and boots would be heavier and perform like regular alpine gear. Are they really trying to convince the backcountry touring customer that it is all about the down when they are spending 70-80% of their time going up? It is no surprise that these products do not sell so well in the educated European market.

I see the difference between mainstream European and American approaches as more geographical than cultural. There are many places in the Alps where light and fast touring is key for linking amazing itineraries in very rugged terrain. The Alps have the comfort and safety of civilization around every mountain corner. Popular backcountry ski venues in the US such as the Wasatch in Utah, Teton Pass in Wyoming, and the Front Range in Colorado are relatively tame. The average tour in these locations is shorter and more straight up and down, car to car. The snowpack in these venues tends to be consistently soft, light, and deep – great for fat skis.

When it really is all about the down, have fun with your ski choice

The combination of these geographic characteristics guides the gear choices people make. It is not based so much on cultural difference. Go to places in the Alps like Verbier, Switzerland or La Grave, France in winter and you will see people in the backcountry with gear biased toward downhill performance. It only makes  sense. You will see a similar bias in North American heli-skiing, and modern sidecountry skiing accessed from a growing number of ski resorts worldwide.

The Eastern Sierra is a confusing place for modern backcountry skiers. Here, the most exciting skiing is in wilderness. This means hauling your ass up the hill. The hills here are not trivial either and 7000 foot descents from alpine summit to desert sage are a world-class main attraction. If you are lugging big heavy gear up these mountainsides you are wasting tons of energy. Nowadays, lightweight AT gear is so high performance that the High Sierra is more stompable than ever.

I have seen many aspiring backcountry skiers confounded by the dearth of backcountry gear choices available. When buying, first ask yourself where and when you want to go. This will help you understand the best set-up for your situation. If you are like me, you worship backcountry skiing. You don’t want to be confined to one type of it. It is all so good, especially when you are using the right equipment for the tour.

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Howie Schwartz is a professional UIAGM/IFMGA Ski and Mountain Guide. Based in California’s Eastern Sierra Nevada, Howie is co-owner of Sierra Mountain Guides; a Guiding service specialized in climbing, skiing, trekking, and even trail running throughout the world. Howie also teaches AIARE Avalanche courses throughout the west and is quite possibly one of the most annoying people to ski with thanks to his ability to make all snow look like powder by skiing everything perfectly. He is also a brilliant bluegrass musician. –DolomiteSport is lucky to have Howie’s thoughts about understanding ski gear choices

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Visit Sierra Mountain Guides

North American and International Ski Guiding including: The Haute Route, The Ortler Circuit, June Mountain Backcountry, Palisades Crest Tour, Bishop Skyline Tour, Ritter Range High Tour, and many more world class ski tours, as well as Climbing, Trekking, and Mountain Running.