HAT blog
Join Us with ORTOVOX at Kendal Mountain Festival 2025!
Henry Schniewind & Mark Jones are delighted to appear at the Kendal Mountain Festival 2025, with ORTOVOX. They will present their groundbreaking Backcountry Smarter programme : a practical framework combining technique, decision-making and key safety principles to use in the Backcountry.
Upcoming Backcountry Smarter Talks in Manchester & Glasgow — can’t wait!
After sold-out nights in London, I’m really looking forward to bringing our Backcountry Smarter Talks to the North — two evenings in Manchester followed by two in Glasgow. Each city hosts our Essentials Talk and a more In-Depth follow-up. Delivered along with...
HAT and ICE: Inspiring Safer, Smarter Off-Piste Skiing
Building awareness and confidence for safer adventures beyond the pisteFor over 20 years, HAT has proudly partnered with ICE (the International Centre of Excellence) — a leading European Business Partner of BASI (British Association of Snowsport Instructors). Based in...
NEW Backcountry Smarter programme with Henry Schniewind and Mark Jones
Henry’s Avalanche Talk launches NEW Backcountry Smarter programme with Mark Jones, in association with ORTOVOX and Ellis Brigham Renowned snow safety expert, Henry Schniewind launches partnership with world class ski coach Mark Jones. The programme includes online...
Backcountry Smarter Webinar – 30 Sept @ 18:00 (UK time)
Catch one of our free webinars introducing our Backcountry Smarter programme, with useful, practical insight that you can apply right now: from matching skis, boots, and bindings to your real-world performance goals, to applying our proven framework for risk management and decision-making in the backcountry.
Backcountry Smarter!
Backcountry Smarter: The Off-Piste Toolkit Introducing our groundbreaking new course for Autumn - Winter ‘25/26 to build your backcountry autonomy. Simple methods to transform your backcountry ski technique and decision-making ability!Do you want to build real...
Avalanche transceivers interference: phones, watches, gloves, socks…
Mobile phones and various electronic devices can interfere with avalanche transceivers, especially in SEARCH mode, resulting in misleading signals and delays during rescues. To mitigate this, keep devices 20 cm away in SEND mode and 50 cm away in SEARCH mode, turning them off entirely to reduce interference and optimize rescue efforts.
A Shadow as a Compass – Great for the Summer too!
Harness the power of the sun and let shadows guide your way, even amidst the vastness of nature. Whether skiing in the spring or embarking on summer adventures, understanding your direction is crucial, particularly in mountainous terrain. By using shadows, you can navigate without technology. Timing is key to ensure safety and enjoy conditions that reduce avalanche risks. Learn to make the most of your spring skiing experience and discover the thrill of smooth, off-piste adventures! Safety truly is freedom!







