C Dostie

Author's posts

Video: A Life Ascending released

A Life Ascending takes a closer look at this contrast, at the life Reudi has built, and how the consequences of that fateful day have affected him, his family, his business, and his outlook on life.

Rerun: Buried Alive!

Very quickly, the ability to move ended. As the snow built up around my torso I squirmed to maintain some sense of mobility, but it was futile. Even the simple act of breathing was becoming a struggle as the snow’s weight bore down on my chest, making it difficult to draw even a breath.

Preview: 22 Designs Vice (& ski crampon)

…the decision to retire the Hammerhead is purely economic since it has been one of the most influential designs in recent telemark history and carries significant sentimental appeal based on a large customer base that is adamantly vocal about the binding’s superior power and control.

Steven’s Pass Avy claims 3

An avalanche at Steven’s Pass ski resort yesterday has claimed the lives of three people. All victims were experienced backcountry skiers. A fourth person who was also caught deployed their airbag and survived. The avalanche started small, then grew and ended up traveling over 2,000 vertical feet. The survivor was buried up to her head …

Keep making backcountry turns

TR: Pepper’s Run (Day 10)

Waking up to a full four inches of cold smoke on the driveway meant my pessimistic view was wrong but all it took to save the day was a call from Dude-man to go earn some turns. I hung up saying, “meet you in an hour at The Back Country.”

First Look: Gecko Climbing Skins

To the touch they appear mildly sticky, maybe half as sticky as “normal” glue, but when stuck to the base of your skis, especially when weighted, they hold as well as any other skin glue. The Gecko folks say it is a pressure sensitive adhesive so when you’re skinning, they hold tight and keep snow from creeping under.

PR: Ortovox to offer ABS packs in 2013

Ortovox has announced their plans to partner with ABS Gmbh, originators of the avalanche airbag pack system, to provide an Ortovox branded avalanche backpack. The new licensing agreement enables Munich-based Ortovox to integrate the ABS system into its own backpacks, further developing safety concepts with an eye on comfort and fit. The system will be built on the popular Vario system which places all the airbag components on a backpack frame that various packs can be attached to with a main zipper and reinforcing straps.