The Delicate Science of Slope Angles I have a very privileged position as an avalanche instructor. Not only am I lucky enough to be many people’s first guide into the backcountry, but I am constantly in a mindset that critically looks at decision-making systems and how to present those systems to my students in a way that is engaging and …
Working as a Ski Guide throughout a winter season encompasses a seasonal shift that essentially mirrors the snowpack as well as the seasonal life span of a recreational skier. I would break the seasons of the ski guide into four distinct chapters: Hopefully, this post works in two ways. To inspire folks who are looking for more mentorship in backcountry …
The young summit looked like a volcanic rock fortress, a specter surveilling the crater below, covered in rime but otherwise untouched by time. According to the map, it was only 600 ft. or so above where we stood, but it appeared a thousand times taller before us. Just before midnight, Nathan and I began the drive up the long, curving …
While living in the land of the Rising Sun for ten years, Dr. Fanon Wilkins, aka The Dusty Foot Philosopher, taught African American history at Doshisha University. He also became one-half of the founding partners of Epic Life Adventures, which curates exotic international ski trips for people of color to unworldly locations all over the planet. And, although the Dusty …
Outdoor sports have a complicated relationship with mentorship. On one hand, there’s a long history of oral tradition and mentorship in outdoor pursuits… Whether learning to hunt from a community elder or following a more experienced friend around a skin track. On the other hand, access to a mentor often requires the mentee to be part of the “in” crowd, …
The AIARE Avalanche Education Curriculum Like many other readers of the Voile Blog, the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE), has played an integral role in my development as a backcountry skier. Chances are you and your touring partners have taken a recreational Level 1 Avalanche Education Course (or beyond) through AIARE or an equivalent organization. Founded in …
The Tele Mike V-Team Vlog This VLOG is dedicated to the families that ski together and the heartfelt familial connections that are forged in snow and ice. I always thought that I would be a fantastic father for a daughter to raise in the mountains in addition to my son who is quickly outpacing my ability to keep up with …
We are thrilled to announce the recipients of the 23/24 Voile Scholarship for Women in the Backcountry, but before we do that, we’d like to thank everyone involved. Thank you to those who helped spread the word by sharing on social media or mentioning this scholarship to a friend. Thank you to the judges who helped put this together. And …
Calling all freeheel fanatics Mark your calendars and start doing your lunges because World Telemark Day is right around the corner, and Voile is gearing up for an unforgettable celebration atop the legendary Alta Ski Area! On Saturday March 2nd, join us as we pay homage to the timeless art of telemark skiing amidst the incredible terrain of the Wasatch …
Each year the most challenging part of running this scholarship is having to select recipients from a pool filled to the brim with incredible applications. This year is no different! It’s truly amazing witnessing the bravery each athlete showed by sharing their stories with us. We couldn’t be more excited to announce Mai Li O’Keefe (Grand Prize) and Laura Wang …
