Alpine conditions are highly unstable and poised for further unpredictability!
Discover below how this situation will unfold in our In-depth Backcountry Smarter Webinar Replay.
Special thanks to avalanche expert, Alain Duclos, from data-avalanche.org for the featured image.
December 29, 2025
In-depth Backcountry Smarter session with Henry Schniewind on avalanche triggering, a four step model (and why nothing happens most of the time), plus Mark Jones: practical technique + bindings/boots compatibility for touring.
Henry explains how and why slab avalanches are (and are not) triggered — including remote triggering, “whumpfs,” and why multiple skiers can cross a slope before it releases.
Then Mark dives into practical technique (balance & “smart feet”) and the touring gear decisions that matter: frame vs tech/pin vs hybrid bindings, plus boot sole compatibility (Alpine / GripWalk / touring soles) and what to watch out for.
Chapters (jump to what you need):
0:00 Intro + session overview
6:40 Why “most of the time nothing happens” (and why that’s dangerous for habits)
13:20 Weak layers (facets / depth hoar) and what changes when new snow arrives
20:00 The 4-step model: initiation → propagation → crown crack → release
26:40 Why tracks don’t prove safety + why the “essentials” still matter
33:20 Mark: balance basics (outputs vs inputs)
40:00 “Smart feet” — whole-foot support (why “always get forward” is misleading)
46:40 Bindings: tech/pin vs hybrid vs frame (tradeoffs for up vs down)
53:20 Boots: Alpine vs GripWalk vs touring soles + compatibility pitfalls
1:00:00 Q&A
1:13:20 Closing + what’s next
Links / next steps:
• Backcountry Smarter (replays + talks + courses): henrysavalanchetalk.com/backcountry-smarter
• Henry’s Avalanche Talk: henrysavalanchetalk.com
• Pocket Guide on Video: henrysavalanchetalk.com/hat-safety-pack-make-the-smart-call-off-piste-accident-prevention-companion-rescue-cards/
If you found this useful, please subscribe and share it with your ski touring partners. The goal is simple : applied decision-making that keeps your touring days acceptably safe.
By Henry’s Avalanche Talk in partnership with
