J2Ski Forum Posts and Replies by Ranchero_1979

So I have a decent touring setup, Diamir Freeride pro bindings on Salomon Shoguns. Probably not lightest setup but definitely a decent compromise for whole year. Big generalization but the Marker is probably a better downhill binding than the Diamir. I have had to crank mine probably to levels us to keep mine from popping off.

Personally I have just moved back from touring boots to downhill boots. Basically I think they give you much better control and if you are only doing moderate touring, 2-3 hrs uphill to ski down then not too bad. No issue to use any boots on you touring bindings but you shouldn't use touring boots on normal bindings. I think this is because lack of glide plate can mean the heavier grips on touring boots can be difficult to release. Again that might be an old wives tale as opposed to solid rule.

Length should be okay, kick turns will be easier ?.

I would say is pretty late to be going there. Having a car may well be a good investment at that time of year. You are <1hr from Chamonix if needed and they will definitely have something.

Good news is weather in valley is beautiful at moment so as long as you accept is late, ski early, finish early am sure will have a fantastic vacation.

So just back from heliskiing trip to Canada, Gothics Lodge with CMH. Unfortunately premature end to season for me, ACL gone, so sitting at home in Chamonix watching others head off to enjoy the fresh. Have to say definitely something that would do again.

Firstly amazing variety of people in lodge. From super rich who had private helicopter for week to normal people (like myself) who have saved, sold, borrowed to scrape money together for experience. 10 or so nationalities, 1 common goal (kick some ass), 1 common passion made for fantastic atmosphere. People were all good skiers but no need movie level. End of day same as anywhere, people are just there to have fun. So when your all chopping through snow to find a ski (including guides), at least you know who is buying the first pitcher that night.

Weather was warm with rain at 1000m (I actually would recommend Feb if were to do again). Snow at skiing level was deep and pretty light (we would not complain in Europe). Unfortunately there was a weak layer around 1m into pack which kept us in the trees and with limited vertical per run (500-700m, the great North American diss-advantage). Still nobodies legs were complaining about this.

As for the skiing, well I can confirm in terms of tree skiing Europe just cannot compete. Steep (needs to be because of snow depth), perfect spacing that allows you to rip whilst still requiring total focus. Completely different to the combat skiing you often get if you ski top to bottom of something in Europe. Truly awesome.

My recommendation for avoiding knee injuries, chose an appropriate place to stop. As much as people will sympathize, your pride will be dented being lifted off a slope after 2mph incident. Still despite missing 2 weeks skiing now and Mt Blanc in May no better motivation for getting into shape for next year.

Hotel Le Chamonix and Le Crete Blanche are great little 2 stars, very reasonable price if you just want sleep and a hot shower.

Remember that Chamonix buses run on a timetable http://www.chamonix-bus. You only need to wait if you cannot read this. Find out closest bus stop and try to catch an early one.

Book a guide and do Valee Blanche.

If you see someone limping around resort that will be me - ACL (just broke in Canada).

I can confirm Chamonix has has solid snow for last 24hrr all they way down to 1000m. Would guess >30cm up high. People are confirming awesome snow which makes my knee injury all the more depressing.

Chamonix,

has been dumping almost solid for 2 days now so should be good timing. 1hr transfer (many transfer companies), good transport to slopes, steepest skiing in Europe, biggest vertical in world. proper ski town so beaucoup eating and sleeping options for all budgets. Need you know more?
:-).

Well unfortunately am living in Iraq. That means 6 weeks prior to trip no options for fancy tents or gyms. Someone suggested skipping is best exercise for calf muscles in absence of any hills? Spinning class would be nice for thighs but again not an option. Guess real concern is upping from 1hrs exercise to 12hr+ days. I know from summer climbing this is always a painful i.e. you make it but don't really enjoy. Obviously given aim is to ski back down, super tired legs are not an great idea given the increased risk of injury.

To clarify am planning on touring up Mt Blanc (summit) and skiing down. Specific altitude training living at sea level could be tough. Guide has planned 9 days with 4 days as summit window.Will be back in Chamonix in March so maybe a few nights in hut would be an idea, although would affect ski plans.