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.

Guides
The 11 Types of Climbing Holds: How to Use & Master Them
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.

Guides
The 6 Different Types of Skiing: Which is Right for You?
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.

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

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

Guides
Beginner Ski Tips: Avoid These 15 Common Mistakes
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.

Guides
Skiing vs Snowboarding: Which One Is Better For Me?
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.

Guides
20 Best Ski Resorts In The USA
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.

Guides
How To Get Up After A Skiing Fall
How To Get Up After A Skiing Fall

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.

Guides
Ski Slope Ratings Explained
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.

Guides
How Much Does It Cost To Go Skiing in 2023?
How Much Does It Cost To Go Skiing in 2023?

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.

Guides
The 13 Different Types of Climbing
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.

Guides
Bouldering vs Rock Climbing: Key Similarities & Differences
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.

Guides
Do You Need to Wax New Skis?
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.

Guides
Mountain Climbing Clothing For Winter Summits
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.

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

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

Guides
9 Best Ski Apps For Planning, Tracking & More In 2023
9 Best Ski Apps For Planning, Tracking & More In 2023

Track your ski stats, check avalanche conditions, and plan your next big ski day with the best ski apps available today.

Guides
Snow Climbing: How to Get Comfortable On Steep Snow
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.

Guides
Is Snowboarding Hard? 10 Things Beginners Need To Know
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
Avalanche Safety Gear: The 3 Essentials
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.

Guides
Deciphering Ski Slang: The Terms You Need To Know
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.

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

Guides
How Should Ski Boots Fit for Pain-Free Skiing
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.

Guides
Ski Boot Size Chart & Fitting Guide (With FAQs)
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.

Guides
Where to Buy Used Mountaineering Gear
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.

Guides
How To Stay Warm in a Tent (19 Expert Tips)
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.

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

Guides
What is Ski Mountaineering?
What is Ski Mountaineering?

Ski mountaineering blends skiing, rock climbing, and mountaineering. Find out more about ski mountaineering and learn how to get started.

Guides
How Hiking and Mountaineering Can Reduce Depression
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.

Guides
The Essential Rappelling Gear For Mountaineering
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.

Guides
Ice Climbing Gear Essential Checklist
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.

Guides
Ice Climbing for Beginners: The Ultimate Guide
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.

Guides
The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing Checklist
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.

Guides
Snow Camping Guide: How To Camp On Snow
Snow Camping Guide: How To Camp On 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.

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

Guides
How to Start Mountaineering: The Essential Guide
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.

Guides
A Field Guide to Tent Repair
A Field Guide to Tent Repair

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.

Guides
The Benefits of Mountaineering in a Post-COVID World
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.

Guides
How Much Water Do You Need for Hiking and Mountaineering?
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.

Guides
The 10 Best Mountaineering Documentaries Streaming Right Now
The 10 Best Mountaineering Documentaries Streaming Right Now

These 10 mountaineering documentaries feature some of the greatest alpine feats of all time and offer inspiration to get into the mountains.

Guides
Mountaineering Food: Lightweight, Delicious Fuel for Your Trip
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.

Guides
How to Use an Ice Axe – The Beginner's Guide
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.

Guides
How to Store Climbing Rope - The Beginner's Guide
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.

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