Insider Tips from a Life in the Mountains

Written by experts with years of experience in the alpine, our mountain sports guides offer valuable insight and teach lessons that can only otherwise be learned the hard way.

Whether you're just starting out or have several climbs or ski trips under your belt, there is always something to be learned from the experience of other likeminded athletes. We hope to offer that something to you here across a range of mountain-based topics.

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Ski bindings
Guides

What Type Of Ski Bindings Do I Need?

Without ski bindings, nothing connects your boots to your skis. But did you know there are several varieties you can use? Let’s talk about them.
Person skiing
Guides

Ski Pants vs Bibs: Which Do You Really Need? (Pros/Cons)

Ski pants or bibs? Both provide protection while we ski, but for different reasons, and it’s worth exploring which one works best for you.
Skii boots and skis
Guides

How Long Do Ski Boots Last? Expert Tips To Extend Their Life

Wondering how long ski boots last and whether you need a new pair? Our expert tips and tricks can help you maximize the lifespan of your ski boots.
Person trail running
Guides

Hiking Boots vs Trail Runners: Is Lighter Footwear Better?

Torn between hiking boots vs trail runners? Let’s review the pros and cons of each so you know which to choose before embarking on your next hiking trip.
A tent with a mountain view
Guides

3 Season Vs. 4 Season Tents (Pros & Cons)

Three-season or four-season tents? In this guide, I’ll lay out what they are and which one you need to have the best time on your next outdoor adventure.
Tent in the middle of a field
Guides

11 Hacks For Keeping Cool In A Tent

Keeping cool in a tent on a hot summer night is easier than it sounds. Follow these 11 hacks to keep the heat down on your next camping trip.
Group of people hiking
Guides

5 Best Hiking Documentaries To Inspire Your Next Adventure!

Perfect for getting into the outdoor mindset, hiking documentaries are a lot of fun to watch. Here are the five best you can watch for free on YouTube today!
Person hiking in the rain
Guides

Essential Rain Hiking Gear: How To Stay Dry On The Trail

Stay comfortable and dry while hiking in the rain. Discover the best rain hiking gear and the most important tips for staying dry during wet outdoor adventures.
Mountains
Guides

Mountaineering Vs. Hiking: Which Is Better For Me?

Mountaineering and hiking are two separate but similar activities. Here, we compare them, so you can figure out which is better for you.
Hiking boots
Guides

5 Quick Steps To Break In Hiking Boots For Pain-Free Hikes

New hiking boots are stiff and uncomfortable, which can lead to blisters, bruises, and miserable feet. Break in hiking boots fast with our five-step plan.
Man hiking through mountains
Guides

What To Wear Hiking In Hot Weather (Expert Guide)

Shorts? Pants? Long sleeves? Tank top? Check out this guide to learn what to wear hiking in hot weather to stay cool and comfortable on the trail.
Guides

A Step-by-Step Guide To Planning A Perfect Hiking Trip

Hitting the trail isn't as simple as walking out your door. This guide to planning a hiking trip will help you feel fully prepared for an epic hike.
Man tying laces of walking boots
Guides

How Hiking Boots Should Fit To Avoid Pain

Hiking doesn't have to hurt your feet. This guide will let you know how your hiking boots are supposed to feel for a comfortable outdoor experience.
Guides

The Science of Hiking: How Trail Walking Can Help Build Muscle

Hiking is great for physical health. But you might be surprised to know it can also transform your physique. Discover how hiking builds muscle right here!
Man and woman packing their backpacks
Guides

Food Storage For Backpacking: Campsite Ready & Bear Proof

Food storage for backpacking doesn’t have to be overwhelmingly complicated. I’ve created a guide that discusses proper food storage, handling, and packing.
Man holding bread in the mountains
Guides

What To Eat Before Hiking

Hiking burns a lot of energy. If you're wondering about what to eat before hiking to keep that energy going, we've got the information you need.
Man hiking in the mountains
Guides

16 Hiking Tips To Stay Safe & Enjoy The Trail

Beautiful, rewarding, and challenging are just some of the words used to describe hiking. Downplay the danger by following my 15 hiking safety tips.
A skier stands with a long pair of skis next to him in front of a beige wall
Guides

How To Choose The Right Ski Length

Finding out how to choose the right ski length doesn’t have to be a chore. In this article, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs so you can find the perfect size quickly.
Man hiking in a forest
Guides

How Hiking In Forests Can Boost Your Immune System By 50%

Hiking in the forest can strengthen your body’s immune response by ~50%. Backed by scientific studies, this article explains how it works.
Two people cross-country skiing
Guides

What To Wear For Cross-Country Skiing

What to wear cross-country skiing isn’t always as straightforward as it appears. Dive into my guide to get the best recommendations and advice.
Womens hiking gear
Guides

Best Women’s Hiking Gear & Clothing Guide (2023 Edition)

Choosing the right hiking essentials can be daunting. To help, we’ve put together an all-inclusive guide to help you find the best hiking gear for women.
Person skiing
Guides

The 6 Different Types Of Skiing: Which Is Right for You?

We explain the 6 different types of skiing: downhill, backcountry, cross-country, freestyle, ski mountaineering, and adaptive skiing.
Person rock climbing
Guides

The 11 Types Of Climbing Holds: How To Use & Master Them

Want to turbocharge your climbing abilities? We explain the 11 different types of climbing holds and how you can use them to send your next climb.
A ski student keeps their eyes on obstacles downhill while they ski around some moguls
Guides

Intermediate Ski Tips: 13 Common Mistakes & How To Fix Them

Everyone makes mistakes, but how you correct them matters. Use these intermediate ski tips to fast-track your skiing development.
Person snowboarding
Guides

What Size Snowboard Boots Do I Need (Size Chart Inside!)

Wondering what size snowboard boots you need? Look no further! We break down snowboard boot sizing and include a size chart to help you get the best fit.
A skier demonstrating the pizza or wedge, where your ski tips point toward one another. In this formation, the skier applies pressure downward and slows down
Guides

Beginner Ski Tips: Avoid These 15 Common Mistakes

Getting into skiing can be overwhelming and scary. In this guide, we list 15 beginner ski tips to help you avoid the most common mistakes people make when starting out.
A snowboarder finds fresh powder with an open slope and a chairlift visible behind
Guides

Skiing vs Snowboarding: Which One Is Better For Me?

Considering skiing or snowboarding? We answer beginners’ top questions and compare skiing vs snowboarding so you know which is the better fit for you.
A ski resort
Guides

20 Best Ski Resorts In The USA

We highlight the 20 best ski resorts in the USA to explore this winter. Find the perfect resort for mellow slopes, steep terrain, & everything in between.
Person down in the snow wearing skis
Guides

How To Get Up After Falling On Skis

Learning how to get up after a skiing fall is an invaluable skill. We’ve got the best tips and advice to get you back on your feet right here.
A skier takes measured turns down a steep, bumpy run at Beaver Creek Resort. You can see more ski runs on an adjacent slope and rugged mountains in the background
Guides

Ski Slope Ratings Explained

Terrain selection is a big part of skiing. We break down ski slope ratings so you can ski to your heart's content without inviting injury to the party.
Two people skiing
Guides

How Much Does It Cost To Go Skiing In 2024?

Skiing can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. We cover how much it costs to go skiing in 2023 and offer tips to make it more affordable.
Person rock climbing
Guides

The 13 Different Types of Climbing

Climbing is a broad sport with disciplines like single-pitch rock climbing, bouldering, and mountaineering. We break down the different types of climbing.
Two skis on a mountain
Guides

Do You Need To Wax New Skis?

Do new skis need to be waxed? The short answer is yes. We explain why and walk you through the process to wax your skis at home.
A man rock climbing
Guides

Bouldering vs Rock Climbing: Key Similarities & Differences

Bouldering and rock climbing are very different styles of climbing with different goals. Discover the main differences between bouldering vs rock climbing.
Mountaineers climbing a snowy mountain
Guides

Mountain Climbing Clothing For Winter Summits

You need the right clothes for the weather to succeed at winter mountaineering objectives. We explain what to wear when climbing in the winter.
Skis
Guides

Freeride vs All-Mountain Skis: Which Ones To Choose?

Freeride vs. all-mountain skis, which are better? For many, the question pops up regularly. Don’t worry; we have the answers you seek.
A snowboarder sits down on top of a ski mountain with a blue sky, other snowboarders and snow capped mountains in the background
Guides

Is Snowboarding Hard? 10 Things Beginners Need To Know

Thinking about learning how to snowboard? It’s not as hard as people think! Here are ten things beginners need to know before hitting the slopes.
Guides

Snow Climbing: How To Get Comfortable On Steep Snow

Snow climbing is an essential skill for mountaineers and backcountry skiers. We explain how to climb steep snow slopes with confidence.
Phone showing a hiking GPS app
Guides

7 Best Hiking GPS Apps For Backcountry Travel (Free & Paid)

Backcountry GPS apps can make a huge difference for backpacking, climbing, and mountaineering. Here are the 7 best free and paid hiking GPS apps.
A phone showing a ski app
Guides

9 Best Ski Apps For Planning, Tracking & More In 2024

Track your ski stats, check avalanche conditions, and plan your next big ski day with the best ski apps available today.
A predwan view from the side of a massive, snowy mountain. Other climbers are visible far below and a low cloud cover blocks views of the ground
Guides

Avalanche Safety Gear: The 3 Essentials

Staying safe in avalanche country means carrying a shovel, beacon, and probe and knowing how to use them. We explain the essential avalanche safety gear.
A cold blue day with fresh powder and a few obvious ski lines through it. The hills in the back are all snowy with only one or two trees
Guides

Beginner Ski Tips: How To Ski The 5 Types Of Snow

You might be surprised to know there are 5 types of snow. Discover what they are and how to ski them safely with AlpInsider’s beginner ski tips.
Person skiing down a mountain
Guides

Deciphering Ski Slang: The Terms You Need To Know

Have you ever wondered what skiers are talking about when they use terms like core shot, chunder, and tomahawk? Now you can, with our ski slang guide.
Woman observing a ski boot
Guides

How Should Ski Boots Fit For Pain-Free Skiing

Want to ski without discomfort, blistering & bruising? Then you need to know how ski boots should fit. This handy guide helps you choose the perfect size.
Ski boot being made
Guides

Ski Boot Size Chart & Fitting Guide (With FAQs)

Our ski boot size chart will help you get the perfect boot fit for your feet so you can hit the slopes with comfort and power.
Mountaineering gear
Guides

Where To Buy Used Mountaineering Gear

Buying used mountaineering gear can save you money and help you get the equipment you need. We explain how and where to buy used climbing gear.
Two tents on a mountain
Guides

How To Stay Warm In A Tent (19 Expert Tips)

With a few tricks, you can stay cozy and warm while camping even in the coldest conditions. In this guide, we’ll explain how to stay warm in a tent.
Ski boot and ski
Guides

Ski Boot Flex - How to Choose Yours (Chart Inside!)

Flex ratings are essential to understand when buying new ski boots. In this guide, we untangle flex and help you choose the right flex for you.
A person ski mountaineering
Guides

What Is Ski Mountaineering?

Ski mountaineering blends skiing, rock climbing, and mountaineering. Find out more about ski mountaineering and learn how to get started.
Group of hikers hiking in the mountains
Guides

How Hiking and Mountaineering Can Reduce Depression

COVID, and too much screen time, have helped worldwide depression levels skyrocket. Find out how hiking and mountaineering can help.
Person mountaineering
Guides

The Essential Rappelling Gear For Mountaineering

Having the right gear is essential for safe rappelling. I explain what you need to rappel in the mountains and why each piece of gear is important.
Person ice climbing
Guides

Ice Climbing For Beginners: The Ultimate Guide

Ice climbing is a fun way to climb through the winter and an essential skill for advanced mountaineering routes. Our ice climbing guide will help you get started.
Timo, one of our writers, and an ice climbing guide on Mt. Hood
Guides

Ice Climbing Gear Essential Checklist

Headed out for a grand ice climbing trip? Check this list to make sure you’ve got the ice climbing gear you need to have a successful adventure.
Different skiing equipment next to each other on the floor
Guides

The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing Checklist

Going out for your first ski trip? We put together an easy packing checklist to help you remember everything you need for a great day of skiing.
A tent covered in snow
Guides

Snow Camping Guide: How To Camp In The Snow

Learn how to make camp in the snow and stay warm through the night when mountaineering and backpacking. We explain everything you need to know.
Flags at Everest base camp
Guides

Why is Climbing Everest So Deadly? A Data-Driven Report

Everest isn't just the highest mountain in the world – it's also the deadliest. In this data-driven report, I explain why climbing Everest is so deadly.
A man mountaineering
Guides

How To Start Mountaineering: The Essential Guide

Learn how to make the jump from hiking to mountaineering, what gear you need to move safely in the mountains, and how to find mountaineering partners.
Multiple tents
Guides

How To Repair A Tent (A Field Guide)

Mountaineering and backpacking are tough on your tent. We explain how to repair common issues like ripped tent fabric and broken tent poles in the field.
A man mountaineering
Guides

The Benefits Of Mountaineering In A Post-COVID World

Mountaineering has physical, mental, and emotional benefits, and it’s easy to get into. I explain why mountaineering is the perfect sport after COVID-19.
Man drinking a drink in the mountains
Guides

Mountaineering Food: Lightweight, Delicious Fuel For Your Trip

How much food do you need to bring for a mountaineering trip? We explain how to plan your food while minimizing weight and maximizing calories.
Woman drinking water on a mountain
Guides

How Much Water Do You Need For Hiking And Mountaineering?

We explain how much water you need to drink while hiking and mountaineering, how to carry it, and how to refill your bottles on the trail.
People ice climbing
Guides

How To Use An Ice Axe – The Beginner's Guide

We explain everything mountaineers need to know about how to self-arrest and climb steep snow slopes with an ice axe.
A mountain
Guides

The 9 Best Mountaineering Documentaries Streaming Right Now

These 9 mountaineering documentaries feature some of the greatest alpine feats of all time and offer inspiration to get into the mountains.
Group of climbers on a snowy mountain
Guides

How to Store Climbing Rope - The Beginner's Guide

Store your climbing rope in a cool, dry place, and be sure to regularly inspect it before putting it away.