Spring Skiing & Biking in Alaska

Spring Skiing & Biking in Alaska

Author: BLISTER April 27, 2018 Duration: 53:02

It seems like everyone who hasn’t been to Alaska dreams of going, and those who have been dream of going back. So today we’re talking about spring skiing and biking in Alaska with Eric Helmbrecht, the owner of Powder Hound ski shop in Girdwood, AK.

Eric and I talk a bit about some of the inbounds and touring gear that he thinks works particularly well in Alaska’s maritime snowpack and unique terrain, and some of the boots and bindings that are coming out next year. Then, Eric provides a bit of beta on spring skiing and biking in Alaska, and we wrap up with some talk about the quickly-growing mountain bike scene around Girdwood and Anchorage.

TOPICS & TIMES:

  • Introducing Eric / starting Powder Hound in Girdwood, AK (1:05)
  • What skis do you like for AK's snowpack and terrain? (7:32)
  • AT boots - Scarpa Maestrale RS, Atomic XTD 130, Tecnica Zero G Tour Pro (19:14)
  • AT boot liners (27:57)
  • AT bindings (31:29)
  • Beta on spring ski skiing in Alaska (38:31)
  • Spring mountain biking in Alaska (46:04)

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For anyone who has ever stood in a shop debating the merits of a new jacket or stared at a trail map while thinking about their skis, GEAR:30 is that conversation. This BLISTER podcast goes far beyond basic specs and marketing claims, offering a nuanced, often technical look at the equipment that defines our time outside. The discussion is driven by the people who live with these products: our own reviewers who are putting gear through its paces in real conditions, the designers who obsess over materials and intent, and the athletes whose livelihoods depend on performance. We also check in with the seasoned folks from our network of recommended shops, who see what works and what doesn’t after a season of hard use. Episodes dig into specific items, broader trends in innovation, and the sometimes-surprising realities of long-term testing. It’s a deep, authentic resource for anyone who appreciates the intersection of sports, design, and technology, and who believes the right tool can transform an experience. Tune in for honest, detailed talk that treats outdoor gear with the seriousness and curiosity it deserves.
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