As we all know, skis are very smooth on their base, making it kind of tough going uphill with them. That is why there are ski touring skins. Thanks to these, the ski sticks to the snow when walking uphill: In one direction, the skin will go smoothly across the snow, in the other, it will stick to the ground, making a climb up a mountain possible. Once you have reached the top, you take the skins off and ski back down. Touring skins differ in their used material, in how they are fixed onto the ski and whether they are already trimmed to fit your ski or need to be cut. 

Underneath the touring skins: Mohair vs. Nylon

The climbing side, meaning the side of the skin that is turned towards the snow is either made of mohair or synthetic materials. For both, the fibers are all weaved to be facing the same direction. Also there are mix materials, that consist of both mohair and synthetic materials. Mohair is made from the hair of the angora goat, which is known for being very robust but also lightweight and keeping its great characteristics even in coldest temperatures. But mohair is also more expensive. Synthetic climbing skins are mostly made of nylon.

The pros and cons of mohair: Mohair has great gliding and breaking characteristics. Furthermore, it is very resistant to water and stays dry, flexible and soft even at icy temperatures. But, being a natural product, it is not as durable as nylon and more expensive.

The pros and cons of nylon skins: These skins are a bit more durable, at the same time cheaper. Also, they have great grip in really low temperatures. However, their glide is a bit weaker, when temperatures are very low, they tend to get stiff. Also, the snow clusters and sticks to these skins more easily due to taking in more moisture. But these skins are constantly improving.

Mixed material: These hybrid skins combine the best of both worlds. Usually, they consist of about 70% mohair and 30% nylon, making them durable, water-repellant and ensuring less snow sticking to the skins. As of this, these skins are becoming more and more popular!