{"id":3239,"count":25,"description":"Climbing skins are available with a wide variety of plush materials, adhesives and clips, with each being specific to a user\u2019s preference and requirements. With this in mind, we tested traditional skins, glueless skins, custom cut skins and plastic skins in order to determine the best in each category. We used several reviewers for the testing since most skiers want something different out of their climbing skins. Some want better grip for steeper skin tracks or icier snow conditions while others like the efficiency of better glide. To ensure we addressed all the variables, testers were required to use them on a variety of touring days to ensure that each climbing skin was used in several snow conditions. This included hard pack, windslab, ice, powder, and of course everyone\u2019s favourite heavy, wet, elephant snot (that\u2019s seriously what it\u2019s called). Testers logged several thousand vertical feet on each climbing skin to determine how the plush worked on various skin tracks as well as how the plush held up over time. <\/span>\r\n\r\nClimbing skins were originally made using the short hairs from the skin of seals and are pretty simple in design. They have since evolved and now are available both in a synthetic and natural option with nylon being used in the synthetic versions and mohair for the natural fiber skins. Nylon is known to provide better grip and durability whereas mohair will glide more efficiently but also wear down faster. Blends of these two fabrics are also available which creates a plush with attributes of each. <\/span>\r\n\r\nInnovation never stops in the ski world and the same is true for climbing skin development. Fisher has taken cues from their cross-country line and now offers a completely plastic climbing aid (notice that we do not call it a climbing skin). The advantages of using plastic over a plush are that it won\u2019t absorb water over the course of its use and therefore not gain any weight, which is a backcountry skier\u2019s worst enemy.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs always, don\u2019t forget to travel in the backcountry safely and wisely. Consult your local avalanche forecast before traveling in unmitigated backcountry terrain, travel with partners, and make sure to carry rescue equipment and know how to use it.","link":"https:\/\/gearinstitute.com\/ski-snow\/climbing-skins\/","name":"Climbing Skins","slug":"climbing-skins","taxonomy":"category","parent":2433,"meta":[],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nThe Best Climbing Skins | Reviews and Buying Advice | Gear Institute<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Our experts extensively field-tested the best Climbing Skins of the year and rated the best based on transparent, objective criteria. 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