GEAR GUIDE WHAT SKI KIT DO YOU NEED THIS WINTER? THIS SEASON’S BEST SKI GEAR TESTS - INSIDE GEAR OF THE YEAR 2024 Award-winning skis, boots, bindings, clothing, accessories, safety equipment and more WE ARE SKI WIN FOUR EPIC PRIZES... WORTH THOUSANDS DEEEEEP! THE SNOWFALL CHAMPS FROM LAST SEASON ❆ BIG THRILLS IN LITTLE LES 7 LAUX ❆ SLOVENIAN ADVENTURES IN THE MIGHTY JULIAN ALPS ❆ A LOCAL S GUIDE TO VERBIER ❆ HOW TO PLAN YOUR EARLY SEASON POW QUESTS NEW GEAR FOR 2024 DIVE INTO WINTER PREPPED AND READY Markus Eder, Ingrid Backstrom, Cody Townsend + Team Fall Line on getting ski fit and making plans FANCY AN UPGRADE? Same skiing, but better! Resorts where you’ll find new lifts, links, snowmaking and more this season BUCKET LIST SKIING Freshies for days! The must-ski spots for powder-hunters, from Engelberg to Niseko PLAN YOUR TRIPS. BUY YOUR GEAR. IT S UPON US! ENGELBERG MARCH,2023! WE ARE SKI WIN WITH NORDICA & THE NORTH FACE WE ARE SKI PISTE & ALL-MOUNTAIN TECHNIQUE TIPS WITH WARREN SMITH THAT SHAPED THEM ❆ AURÉLIEN DUCROZ’S GUIDE TO CHAMONIX ❆ EASY-ACCESS POWDER GOODIES IN LA ROSIÈRE ❆ MEET SNOWFLAKE, THE 76-YEAR-OLD ENGELBERG LEGEND ❆ 36 HOURS IN BAQUEIRA-BERET PISTE & ALL-MOUNTAIN ISSUE SLICE ’N DICE WIN WITH SPYDERDYNASTAR,HALTI VERBIERAND PISTE ADVENTURES The ultimate experiences to push your skiing BEHIND THE SCENES OF SKI SUNDAY Graham Bell reveals all… NIGHT WITH THE PISTE BASHERS Darkness, steep drops, wild animals… Saint-Gervais slope prep isn’t for the faint-hearted GEAR ON TEST Best kit for piste slaying and all-mountain antics WE ARE SKI SKIDOOS & SKI TOURS IN UTAH LOCAL’S GUIDE TO SILVRETTA MONTAFON ❆ WHISTLE-STOP POWDER-HUNT IN ANDORRA ❆ BELLISSIMA! SKI TOURING, ITALIAN STYLE ❆ THE MAN ATTEMPTING TO SKI TOUR 3M VERTICAL FEET IN A YEAR ❆ OUR FAVE POWDER PICS OF LAST WINTER POWDER & BACKCOUNTRY ISSUE WIN WITH GLENMORE LODGE AND SUNGOD SKI WITH THE PROS Join a movie star freeride ski camp for top tips and deep snow JAPOW SPECIAL From Honshu to Hokkaido by bullet train STOP THAT AVALANCHE! Behind the scenes of Verbier ski patrol THE BEST FREERIDE AND BACKCOUNTRY KIT FOR 2024 MEDIA PACK 2024/25 ❆ Feeding the ski-obsessed soul since 1991 ❆ Creating high-quality content to partner your marketing message ❆ Written by the passionate, read by the dedicated ❆ Inspiring skiers to go further, faster and higher ❆ Adeptly linking brands to a fun and positive attitude WRITTEN BY THE PASSIONATE READ BY THE DEDICATED
HOW CAN FALL LINE HELP YOU?
Welcome to the 24-25 Fall Line media pack. Find out how you can benefit from working with us to access our readers, who are some of the keenest skiers out there. Whether you are a brand, retailer, tourist board or travel company we can help you communicate your message and build brand awareness.
WHAT IS FALL LINE?
Written by the passionate and read by the dedicated, Fall Line Skiing is the real skier’s magazine.
We’ve been creating high quality content to feed the ski obsessed soul since 1991 so we’re the trusted voice of experience.
Formulaic editorial designed only to collect numbers just isn’t for us.
Our content is original, compelling and often quirky and created to inspire skiers of all levels and experience to go further, faster and higher in the mountains.
Fall Line represents the aspirations of the UK snowsports scene. The inspirational content and immersive imagery ensure it is as relevant today as when the first copy came out more than 30 years ago
MARK BRIGHAM, ELLIS BRIGHAM
Why choose Fall Line?
Our readers need you to help them achieve their skiing goals. Fall Line talks to the keenest skiers like no other snowsports media. For a start, there is no other magazine delivering season-long inspiration for skiers in the UK. Magazines work very well at engaging with readers in what we like to call the prime of their skiing lives. The stories are properly crafted and withstand being read over and over. The imagery is outstanding, relevant and inspirational. The reviews are put together by experts who know and love their subject. Our craft is fed online to an increasing audience, but it’s the magazine that serves as the wellspring of ski goodness.
Who are our readers? They are hugely enthusiastic skiers. They want to visit new destinations and resorts, they want to be well-equipped and need a full set-up of quality gear to enjoy their passion. Their skiing covers the whole mountain – most own two pairs of skis, avalanche safety gear and accessories to allow freeriding and backcountry skiing. Crucially, they have enough money to get stuck in at this level.
Fall Line offers innovative and deep engagement with skiers. These are people who research and buy into brands. We editorialise the messages you’re pushing out there, whether it’s about your drive for sustainability, the concepts that drive you, or the innovations that are going to make our readers’ experiences more… ski.
Because that’s what Fall Line is. It’s about being more ski.
Nicola, Publisher & Editor, Fall Line
WHAT WE DO
We are the only 100% actively bought independent ski magazine available on the newsstand and by subscription.
We are the voice of experience with more than 30 years on the newsstand. Our key editorial staff are based in the Alps and Scotland with contacts, gear testing and story opportunities right on their doorstep.
Our articles are original, compelling and often quirky written by industry insiders, pro skiers, mountain guides and trusted regular contributors from the UK, Europe, North America and beyond.
Our readers engage with Fall Line Skiing all year round via our lively digital channels We give them their winter sports fix and keep them informed at fall-line.co.uk through our regular newsletter and via our social media channels, 12 months of the year.
Whether you’re into resort ripping, freeride stash hunting or remote wilderness exploring, our bumper annual Gear Guide (on sale October 2024) is the ski geek’s bible. It features equipment, clothing and accessories hand-picked by our expert team, reviews of the season’s
best skis, interviews with industry insiders and in-depth kit analysis.
We are the staunchest allies of ‘Own your kit. Buy it in the UK’ We always emphasise the importance of a robust UK industry and we never advocate online discounters.
Our surveys are thorough, long running and give great insight into UK snow sports enthusiasts. We’re into our 19th year of questioning the skiing public and their feedback helps shape the way we communicate – see later for more survey feedback.
CONTENTS 2 What is Fall Line / contents 3 Why choose Fall Line? 4 Fall Line Clients – who we work with 5 Who will you reach? - The Fall Line audience 6 Print Opportunities 9 2024-25 Issues and dates & Advertising Rates 10 Brands / Manufacturers 11 Retail 12 Travel and Tourism 14 Digital Opportunities 16 Our readers 17 More about Fall Line 18 Summer Adventure Issue 19 Key Contacts
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Fall Line clients
We work with the biggest brands and destinations in the ski industry
Who will you reach?
❅ 75% of Fall Line readers take two or more ski trips each season
❅ 32% of Fall Line readers take three or more trips each season,
❅ 30% of Fall Line readers ski for more than three weeks each season
❅ They visit UK retailers where our technically minded readership seek out and buy the latest gear
❅ They have a lot of kit – almost all have at one or more pairs of boots and 96% own at least one pair of skis. They also have dedicated ski packs tend to wear layered clothing and helmets, and almost 70% have tried ski touring
❅ They’re actively looking for new places to ski, and they have the money to make it happen
❅ They travel to North America, Japan and alternative destinations more than average: 25% of our audience invest in long-distance travel compared with 10% of all skiers
❅ They book ski trips for friends and family, and crucially, they want to inspire others to ski!
❅ 30% of our readers lead a group of six or more. They influence gear purchase and trip choice, giving us a wide reach of influence
❅ They go to UK slopes and events
❅ They engage with Fall Line magazine through autumn, winter and spring – our on-sale dates for ‘24/25 run from October 2024 to May 2025
❅ They love the magazine. When asked if they’d prefer digital issues or just a website, over 90% replied that they wanted to continue getting a printed magazine
Black Diamond and Pieps have partnered with Fall Line for a number of years now. They are a super-knowledgeable and fun team to work with. The magazine is expertly produced, looks great and, most importantly, is still relevant as the ‘go to’ place to read up on the very best ski gear for the season, backed up by the website
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Fall Line Skiing – Media Pack 2024/2025 | Page 5
SEAN MANLEY, BLACK DIAMOND / PIEPS
Print opportunities
Competitions
❅ Got some gear or a trip to give away? We run regular competitions across print and digital. A comp or giveaway gives great exposure, high feel-good factor and a chance to plug a specific item or trip.
❅ From high-value print competitions to #WinItWednesday style social media competitions, we have an option to suit all budgets.
Young brands
❅ We love supporting new brands If you aren’t yet a household name but want to shout about your product, Fall Line is the place to do it.
❅ While you may not be able afford full colour or a lot of space we have affordable packages using our newsletter and social media channels to help you get your message out.
❅ Our Emerging Brands feature gives you the opportunity to build brand awareness with an interview-style feature. You answer some questions and tell us all about your company and then leave it to us! You’ll have the opportunity to approve the content and images before it’s published.
Dates and issues
ISSUE 194 − OCTOBER 2024
2025 Gear Guide
Our bumper annual ski geeks’ bible, showcasing handpicked, tried-and-tested products, from skis and boots, to helmets and avi bags. Plus expert buying advice and interviews with key industry players.
On sale: 10 October Artwork by: 19 September
ISSUE 195 − NOVEMBER 2024
Destination & Season Planner Issue
Inspiring skiers to buy kit and book holidays. Including: ski season planner, epic ski challenges, ski fitness, and must-have gear for 2024.
On sale: 28 November Artwork by: 7 November
ISSUE 196 − JANUARY 2025
Piste & All-Mountain Issue
Covering everything in-resort, from the best high-mileage resorts in the Alps, to piste and park technique tips. Gear: the hottest piste, all-mountain and freestyle kit for 2024.
On sale: 9 January Artwork by: 16 December
ISSUE 197 – FEBRUARY 2025
Powder & Backcountry Issue
All things off-piste, from lift-accessed powder to hut-to-hut touring trips, including expert safety advice from our Backcountry Editor. Gear: the hottest freeride and backcountry kit for 2024.
On sale: 20 February Artwork by: 30 January
ISSUE
198 – MAY 2025
Summer Adventure Issue
We have been connecting with passionate skiers through the Fall Line title for over 20 years. The editorial and commercial team ALWAYS hit the mark with paidfor opportunities, developing proposals and creative executions that cleverly deliver our key messages and campaigns EMMA RUSSELL, HELLY HANSEN
Inspiring skiers to hit the mountains in the summer, featuring hiking, wild swimming, trail running, mountain biking, SUP, climbing and camping.
On sale: TBC Artwork by: TBC
2023/24 PRINT ADVERTISING RATES
SIZE OF ADVERT RATE
We will tailor a package to deliver your campaign. Series discounts available!
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Full
£1,450 Double-page
£2,450 Half
£750 Quarter page £450 Eighth page £275 Outside back cover £3,300 Inside front DPS £3,300 Inside back cover £2,200
£poa Inserts £poa AD SPACE SPECIFICATIONS DPS Please supply as two single pages SINGLE Trim 210(w) x 297(h)mm Bleed 216(w) x 303(h)mm HORIZONTAL HALF Trim 210(w) x 143(h)mm Bleed 216(w) x 149(h)mm VERTICAL HALF Trim 100(w) x 297(h)mm Bleed 106(w) x 303(h)mm QUARTER 93(w) x 133(h)mm EIGHTH 93(w) x 64(h)mm
colour page
spread
page
Sponsorship/advertorials
COMPETITION WIN THE NORTH FACE SUMMIT™ VERBIER GORE-TEX® JACKETS P The North Face's pinnacle boundarypushing Summit Series the Summit Verbier Gore-Tex jacket delivers freeride style with big mountain performance. you want be your best, ski your best and perform your best, that’s when Summit garments have your back, using top-level fabrics and designed for all the mountain can throw you. We’ve teamed up with The North Face bring you the chance win not one, but TWO of these freeride-tastic Verbier Gore-Tex jackets men's and women's version, for you and friend worth £630 each. The Summit Verbier Gore-Tex jacket threelayer shell, with total weather protection thanks to its seam-sealed Gore membrane. The face fabric composed of recycled polyester, upping the sustainability credentials, with YKK AquaGuard front zip further seal out the elements. The roomy helmet-compatible hood and tall collar are saving grace when mother nature throws tantrum, with plenty of ventilation like generous underarm vents – she’s in a brighter mood. The freeride cut offers excellent movement and we just love the bold styling Verbier. It’s great, we’re featuring our 2024 Gear Guide, out next month! Head to fall-line.co.uk now enter good luck! www.fall-line.co.uk HOW TO ENTER: FOR A CHANCE TO WIN TWO SUMMIT VERBIER GORE-TEX® JACKETS FROM THE NORTH FACE, HEAD TO FALL-LINE.CO.UK BY NOVEMBER WORTH £1,260 Al Morgan chat with Alois Badegruber, Vice President of Commercial EMEA at BOA to get the skinny on the new BOA® H+i1 dial and cable shell fit system Morgan: can’t wait get the lowdown system. But have say, it’s not the Alois Badegruber: The BOA different categories, for example cycling, running, snowboarding and parts the BOA System are the same (dial, lace and lace guides) we category, and the environment they must perform They are categorised into (low), (medium), and (high) The H+ series most powerful. The ‘i’ stands the possibility continuously improve our products. System has been used loads sports, after originally being has taken over 20 years to make way onto alpine ski boot shells? first test an alpine ski boot, utilising strongest BOA Fit System available that time initial test confirmed that we were right and performance stronger BOA Fit for alpine skiing. After three years development, the winter prototype parts gather more data. Over following two winters the field, with the injected parts. That was the last step before starting the collaboration with our four brand partners. Overall, took over five years with more than 50,000 H+i1 for alpine boots the most powerful, durable and integrated platform in our history, backed BOA Guarantee. provide some context, dial can be opened minimum weeks of skiing over 20 seasons. those concerned about what happens pop out bayonet after significant impact. You then simply pop back by hand, so you can continue enjoy the slopes. alpine boots most powerful, durable integrated platform System applied shell alpine AM: The system impressive; particularly love the wrap you get around the foot. However, I’ve success and fit for years, why should anyone use BOA boot boot, especially given the BOA version more expensive? understand that some people may have questions about new BOA System, given the long-standing presence buckles ski boots. However, are confident that this innovation will revolutionise how ski four our long-term partners (Salomon, Fischer, K2 and Atomic) have launched models with and this just beginning. The best way address these questions encouraging people System themselves. They will immediately notice how the they turn the dial, they will also feel the micro-adjustable precision we talk about. personal friendship many years. When retired from competitions, couldn’t think better person rely on for the on-field test. All our the world related alpine skiing. the development, because who more qualified than him provide with System. His mentality always striving excellence aligns perfectly and when you’re Dialled that’s when you get the best results. Benni (Raich), that some the early prototypes are applied season, we’re only seeing BOA applied alpine and freeride used for racing? AB: This question that everyone Fit System currently undergoing testing with World Cup athletes. The anticipation high, and System will make debut in ski racing sooner rather than later. details the information currently confidential. disciplines where BOA present, we actively collaborate with professional athletes. The system meticulously engineered enhance and alpine racing exception. Our commitment working with System evolves meet specific demands sport, contributing optimal performance. AM: Before leave you, love know what you’re most excited It’s exciting see how retailers are talking about the BOA System, how the whole industry excited; we really can’t wait skiers on the slopes with our system. From the very first test, through all see the final product the slopes, it’s really satisfying. We can only hope snow and many people being able get out and ski! boafit.com/en Beyond tactile experience, Fit System delivers proven performance benefits during skiing. the foot, enhancing connection between your feet and the ski, improving edge-to-edge control. confidence when initiating turn. This translates better and more making you faster. BOA strive enhance the closely with our brand partners from early stages development ensures that we improve their top gear. This commitment underscored Denver headquarters, Performance studies validate impact BOA product. performance. guess the surprising, given that the BOA H+i1 system was developed with World Cup and Olympic gold medal skier Benjamin Raich. How did that partnership first come about? BEHIND THE BRAND… Al chats Alois Badegruber, Vice of EMEA BOA get skinny on new BOA dial cable fit system Al to lowdown But have to it’s not Badegruber: The BOA Fit example snowboarding of the BOA Fit (dial, lace guides) we and the environment they perform They categorised into (low), (medium), H (high) The H+ series are the most The stands for the possibility improve has used loads of after originally being has over years make its onto alpine shells? first test alpine ski boot, utilising the strongest available time the one confirmed that were on the right and performance stronger alpine skiing. three years development, winter parts gather more data. Over the two winters field, with injected parts. That last step before collaboration our four brand partners. Overall, took over five with more than 50,000 H+i1 alpine ski boots powerful, durable integrated platform by the BOA To some context, the can minimum weeks skiing seasons. For what happens the significant You simply pop back on hand, can continue ski boots the powerful, durable and System applied the alpine AM: The system love the wrap you get the foot. However, success so why should anyone BOA boot boot, given BOA version more expensive? understand that may have questions the BOA Fit System, long-standing However, we are confident this innovation will how four long-term partners (Salomon, Fischer, K2 and Atomic) have models with it, and just the beginning. best way for questions by encouraging people Fit They will immediately how ski they turn the dial, they also feel micro-adjustable precision talk personal friendship for years. When retired from competitions, couldn’t think better person rely on-field test. world related alpine skiing. development, who qualified than him System. always striving for excellence aligns you’re that’s best results. Benni (Raich), that some the early prototypes are applied season, we’re only BOA applied alpine and freeride racing? AB: This the question that currently undergoing testing with World athletes. anticipation high, and Fit will make debut racing sooner rather than later. information currently all disciplines where BOA present, we actively with professional athletes. engineered enhance alpine ski racing exception. Our commitment working with Fit meet the specific the contributing optimal performance. AM: leave you, love to what you’re excited It’s exciting see how retailers about the BOA Fit System, whole ski excited; we really can’t see skiers slopes with our very first test, through to see the final product slopes, satisfying. can only hope and many people able ski! Beyond the tactile experience, System delivers benefits during skiing. foot, enhancing the between your feet improving control. initiating turn. This better you we strive enhance with our partners from the early that improve their gear. This commitment by headquarters, the Performance validate the impact BOA on product. performance. guess the surprising, that the BOA system was developed with World Cup Olympic skier Benjamin Raich. that partnership come BEHIND THE BRAND… www.fall-line.co.uk Nicola Iseard talks to Jamie Grant, co-founder and CEO of Carv, about this game-changing device who don’t know Carv, what exactly? digital ski coach – I pigeon-holes more performance system technique, tracks your day, and gives you advice how improve. The product very thin boot. has pressure sensors and ‘all-axis’ motion sensor each foot, which connects battery pack that This device measures your motion and pressure times second, Bluetooth, where analysed you ski. Depending what mode you’re Carv will either give you Ski:IQ chairlift, you can try some more intense modes that have hitting targets hearing sounds every we’re very proud have taken this level accuracy it’s what we can Most us lessons and largely stop getting any feedback once we can down red black runs. But we all that hold back. can be incredibly hard feedback your skiing, especially you only go few times point your body connects with your (the boot), have this rich database dissect your skiing and What inspired you guys? JG: learned skiing as adult, this sport. But was so motivated better. did PhD in financial time-series data analysis and machine learning, and measure enough data points skiing, you could apply these objective, accurate system help anyone improve. The best turn heads because they can make exciting, dynamic, fluid turn. Carv, have helping people better. As we built what became exciting from amazing instructors, plus data that Carv generating, and create powerful coaching and most us aren’t able get lessons every time we skiing. So we just create more thorough understanding going into lesson. NI: Did you envisage being most useful for learners, pros looking for more performance? huge range skiers. Intermediates will learn more control (Carv tends outside pressure common areas develop), they’ll learn make more solid parallel turns. Advanced and make dynamic carving. Carv tends push them towards dynamic control balance edging and pressure. This generally the skill gap that means advanced skiers fall The only group don’t recommend Carv beginners. can’t show you the basics setting analyses your technique, tracks your day, and gives you advice on how to improve Soon you’ll start really care about your Ski:IQ! motion and pressure times your phone for pinching their customers?! JG: Haha… Carv actually does the had lesson the last three years, much more interested technique improve. It’s why we’re partnering with number ski schools. angle record?! JG: Absolutely, we all We have the office! We have few great skiers team; think Damian, product manager, probably skis with year though! NI: How useable We’re always trying find we can give skier, and because the technology, but because NI: So, the app big part of The app where most work goes. what the membership improve Ski:IQ, create new metrics with our ambassadors: things that represent important concepts measure accurately example progressive edging, early edging and G-force). also gets new training NI: Does give me reward points Basically, yes! You’ll start really care about your Ski:IQ. When you feel like you’re ripping, Ski:IQ chase higher score. And you can technique focus area, it’s even have transformational breakthrough. So that motivation, and Ski:IQ points system, really important their technique that little each day. worry about fitting them my Nope, there’s nothing worry boot liner thick, which almost skiers padding, which can take that space, and very thin cable imperceptible. NI: Have you found the sensors conditions living boot are pretty punishing… JG: We’ve spent long time looking created boots. So adapted reinforcements, cable connectors, and even the material the cable an alpine setup there long lifespan. Touring boots walk mode recommend sticking to alpine boots, but many customers are fine touring boots well. number design iterations, clip bomb-proof, and even for three days-plus in cold. NI: What can we see from Carv This year have few exciting new developments for members. We’ve created three advanced/expert World Champion racer, that really help create more dynamic and exciting turn (it’s about G-forces!). detect what terrain you’re skiing so the system will actually adapt your scores give you more credit for We’re also working on exciting new coaching mode that adapts you personalised coaching the fly, with specific levels created around your skiing ability, focus area one you’ll have come out and ski with before you write about could real game-changer for getcarv.com teach you help you improve. We spent work last year the product set up, and ease use, that demographics (we have had great reports from skiers their 70s). The biggest learning curve into great ski turn. For example, most know about balance and outside ski pressure, but even these forwards’ it’s dynamic movement that must occur start turn, moving ‘staying centred’ The great thing these concepts are useful transforming your skiing wherever you are. They are not terrain. But first you learn little about them. We’ve work audio tips gently teach new concept, and we designed whole new refresh how our app was doing that, with learn something ‘clicks’. CARV CARV IT UP Nicola Iseard talks to Jamie Grant, co-founder and CEO of Carv, about this game-changing device who don’t know Carv, can you summarise what exactly? digital ski coach – but I think that performance system that analyses your and gives you advice on how improve. The product very thin sensor that fits under the liner your which connects battery pack that you clip onto your boot strap. and pressure 20 times second, sending instantly to your phone via Bluetooth, where analysed you in, Carv will either give you Ski:IQ score on each and the chairlift, you can some more targets and hearing sounds every turn your headphones. The hardware incredible, and level accuracy but what can do with the data that’s really exciting. stop getting any feedback once get down red black runs. But we have these baked-in technique issues hard get feedback on your skiing, especially you only few times year. So, capturing this data ski (the boot), we have this rich database dissect your skiing and work out exactly what you can change. NI: What inspired you guys? learned skiing an adult, was aware how hard learn get better. did PhD financial economics, so had learned about time-series data analysis and machine learning, and knew that you could points skiing, you could apply these tools create system help anyone improve. The best skiers on the mountain can make an exciting, dynamic, fluid turn. At Carv, we have founding mission unlock that fun built what became exciting was the fact that could take input from amazing instructors, plus the create powerful coaching and performance system anyone the world. Lessons are incredible, every time go skiing. developed Carv help you progress between lessons, after lessons, even understanding going into lesson. Did you envisage being most looking more performance? JG: Carv adapting your profile, huge range skiers. Intermediates will learn more control (Carv tends identify balance, parallel skis and develop), they’ll learn make more solid parallel turns. Advanced skiers will learn how get on edge tends push them towards dynamic C-shaped turns, which requires finer control balance edging and gap that means advanced skiers apart on steeper slopes. The only group we don’t can’t show you the basics setting It analyses your technique, tracks your day, and gives you advice on how to improve really care about your Ski:IQ! measures your pressure times second, sending instantly Have you been targeted by any ski instructor associations Haha… Carv actually does the opposite. About half skiers haven’t lesson three years, much more interested technique again, and 96% said motivated them you use Carv yourself? Absolutely, do. We have company leaderboard updating live in product manager, probably skis with most style. It’s all play this We’re always trying find the can give the skier, and the usability. can complicated, not because the technology, because NI: So, the app as big part the Carv experience? work goes. what membership pays for. Every year we overhaul and metrics with our ambassadors: things that represent important concepts skiing that no one else has been able progressive edging, early edging and G-force). also gets new training mode updates every season, so we’ll NI: Does give me reward points when I’m not skiing too backseat? really care about your Ski:IQ. When you feel like you’re ripping, Ski:IQ will score you well you learn fix technique focus area, even more motivating, because you can have transformational breakthrough. points system, really important help people feel confident push their technique that little each day. worry about fitting them boots? nothing worry about. The inserts inside The insert 2-3mm causes issues. The padding, which can take that space, and very thin cable that runs the side, which NI: Have you found the sensors be durable? can imagine the We’ve spent long time looking where pressure and torsion itself minimise issues. We find Touring boots walk mode can create little more movement, recommend sticking alpine boots, touring boots well. The units waterproof, and make the batteries robust, have had clip bomb-proof, and we even optimised battery chemistry last three days-plus cold. future? JG: new developments members. We’ve created three advanced/expert metrics with Ted Ligety, five times help create more dynamic and exciting turn (it’s all about G-forces!). Carv will also now automatically the system will actually adapt your scores give you more credit for skiing well harder terrain. new coaching mode that adapts your skiing you each run, giving you personalised coaching on the fly, your skiing ability, and focus area that adapts your needs. It’s one you’ll have come out and could real game-changer how Carv coaches. the technique concepts has teach you help you improve. We product and ease use, that generally well received reports from skiers their 70s). The biggest learning curve understanding all the concepts that go outside pressure, even these are nuanced. Balance isn’t just ‘lean moving ‘staying centred’ movement during the apex onwards. useful transforming your skiing wherever you They carving concepts; they relevant about them. We’ve put lot work into how that happens this year our audio tips gently teach new concept, how app was doing that, with short graphical videos help you learn something so ‘clicks’. CARV CARV IT UP COMPETITION WIN A CATERED CHALET BREAK FOR TWO TO COURCHEVEL WITH SKI WEEKENDS HOW TO ENTER: FOR A CHANCE TO WIN THIS EPIC SKI WEEKENDS TRIP HEAD TO FALL-LINE.CO.UK BY 4 DECEMBER You have your shiny new skis, your new three-layer Gore-Tex Pro outerwear, and your new MIPS helmet… Now all you need is somewhere to use them all. Look no further, dear Fall Liners! We’ve teamed with the ever-so generous folks Ski Weekends offer one lucky reader, plus buddy, three- or four-night Both Chalet Mouria and Chalet Monique are situated next each other and are just ski pole’s throw from the shops, bars and restaurants of Courchevel 1650 (Moriond), and the main lift just five-minute clomp away. After day spent clocking up miles around the Valleys, return the chalet for tea and cake, soak the hot tub, and hearty three-course meal with unlimited wine (on but one night of your stay). Ski Weekends are experts in organising short break ski trips the Alps they’ve been doing for over 30 years, after all, and have hotels and chalets over 40 resorts they have the extras covered too. You get return transfers from Geneva airport, hot breakfast each morning, and there’s also bag storage and changing rooms available, so you can ski on your arrival and departure day. Score! You’ve gotta win folks head online now to enter… WORTH £1,800 SCAN ME!
Digital opportunities
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❅ Our 26,000 social media followers are highly engaged
❅ They share, like, and comment frequently – drastically increasing post reach
❅ Our record video post stands at organic (nonboosted) 1.2 million reach and 465K views
❅ Our most popular Facebook post of winter 2023 had over 32k reach (previous winters up to 400k reach)
DEEP ENGAGEMENT
❅ Our web audience loves disappearing into the world of skiing
❅ We deliver long-form stories as well as quick snippets because we know that specialist media browsers want to soak up knowledge
❅
EXAMPLE OF A BESPOKE COLLABORATION
PROJECT: ‘HOW TO SKI THE SCOTTISH STEEPS’ VIDEO SERIES
This series is an example of Fall Line successfully bringing together some of the biggest names and players in the UK ski industry to collaborate on a project with much-needed educational value.
Concept: Educational video series in response to the huge increase in popularity of Scottish gully skiing.
Details: Filmed on Ben Nevis in spring 2021 showcasing the necessary skills required to access steeper lines safely.
Featuring skiers:
❅ Andy Townsend (IFMGA mountain guide and Head of Snowsports at Glenmore Lodge)
❅ Iain Innes (Scottish steep skiing’s latest star)
Filmed by: renowned ski and adventure filmmakers/photographers Hamish Frost and Brodie Hood
Sponsored by:
❅ Black Diamond
❅ Glenmore Lodge
❅ FATMAP
❅ Atomic
❅ Windswept Brewing
Outputs:
❅ Live behind the scenes social media coverage via Instagram and Facebook stories
❅ A multi-episode video series to be distributed via Fall Line, partners and sponsors
❅ Premiere to take place at the Winter Opener event held annually in Edinburgh in November
❅ Bespoke ski/adventure imagery featuring real skiers on a real adventure created for brands for marketing/promotional use
Further details on reach and exposure available on request
AD SPECIFICATIONS
Website Banner Provided on enquiry.
Newsletter Please supply your logo, two images and approx 200 words.
Deadlines We need digital artwork and copy at least seven days before going live.
Page 14 | Fall Line Skiing – Media Pack 2024/2025
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Fall Line Skiing – Media Pack 2023/2024 | Page 15
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Love the Fall Line production. It’s an informative read rather than the dross you can read on social media. It’s a product you can trust.
Fall Line is an industry staple, I wait for you to drop through my door each month. Podcast please!
Love this magazine, it totally gets me ready and excited for the winter season. Top tips and new information on resorts is fab. Thank you!
By far the best ski magazine on the shelves! Keep it up.
My subscription’s going nowhere but to you. Very best of luck with your future; your mag offers me something I can’t get elsewhere. So, for as long as you publish, I will buy.
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Thanks for all you do to keep us skiers happy!
Awesome Magazine. Vin chaud: Done. Sit Back: Done. Roll on next season.
Falling has always been an excellent magazine, your Gear Guide is by far the best guide I read. Keep up the good work!
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Page 16 | Fall Line Skiing – Media Pack 2024/2025 Fall Line Skiing – Media Pack 2024/2025 | Page 17 MORE ABOUT FALL LINE Fall Line was born in Chamonix, France, 33 years ago and started as a means of displaying the fantastic photos from the world of skiing. It has evolved over the years from a backcountry magazine to include more mainstream skiing as kid-free readers who were touring 30 years ago now introduce the next generation to the slopes. Nicola Iseard took over publishing the magazine last year, following 13 years’ editing the magazine.
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DEEEEEP! THE SNOWFALL CHAMPS FROM LAST SEASON ROAD TRIPPIN MONTANA AND IDAHO LOCAL GUIDE TO VERBIER HOW TO PLAN YOUR EARLY SEASON POW QUESTS NEW GEAR FOR 2024 DIVE INTO WINTER PREPPED AND READY Markus Eder, Ingrid Backstrom, Cody Townsend Team Fall Line getting ski fit and making plans FANCY AN UPGRADE? Same skiing, better! Resorts where you’ll find new lifts, links, snowmaking and more this season BUCKET LIST SKIING Freshies for days! The must-ski spots powder-hunters, from Engelberg to Niseko PLAN YOUR TRIPS. BUY YOUR GEAR. IT UPON US! ENGELBERG MARCH,2023! WE ARE SKI WIN WITH NORDICA & THE NORTH FACE GEAR GUIDE WHAT SKI KIT DO YOU NEED THIS WINTER? THIS SEASON’S BEST SKI GEAR TESTS INSIDE GEAR OF THE YEAR 2024 Award-winning skis, boots, bindings, clothing, accessories, safety equipment and more WE ARE SKI WIN FOUR EPIC PRIZES... WORTH THOUSANDS WE ARE SKI PISTE ALL-MOUNTAIN TECHNIQUE TIPS WITH WARREN SMITH FALL LINE AND FRIENDS THE PISTES AURÉLIEN DUCROZ’S GUIDE TO CHAMONIX LA ROSIÈRE MEET SNOWFLAKE, THE 76-YEAR-OLD ENGELBERG LEGEND HOURS BAQUEIRA-BERET PISTE & ALL-MOUNTAIN ISSUE SLICE ’N DICE WIN WITH SPYDERDYNASTAR,HALTI VERBIERAND PISTE ADVENTURES The ultimate experiences push your skiing BEHIND THE SCENES OF SKI SUNDAY Graham Bell reveals all… NIGHT WITH THE PISTE BASHERS Darkness, steep drops, wild animals… Saint-Gervais slope prep isn’t for the faint-hearted GEAR ON TEST Best kit for piste slaying and all-mountain antics WE ARE SKI SKIDOOS SKI TOURS UTAH ❆ 100 YEARS OF THE WINTER OLYMPICS LOCAL’S GUIDE TO SILVRETTA BELLISSIMA! SKI TOURING, ITALIAN STYLE THE MAN ATTEMPTING SKI TOUR 3M VERTICAL FEET YEAR OUR FAVE POWDER PICS OF LAST WINTER POWDER & BACKCOUNTRY ISSUE WIN WITH GLENMORE LODGE AND SUNGOD SKI WITH THE PROS Join movie star freeride ski camp top tips and deep snow JAPOW SPECIAL Hokkaido by bullet train STOP THAT AVALANCHE! Behind the scenes Verbier ski patrol THE BEST FREERIDE AND BACKCOUNTRY KIT FOR 2024 Issue 189 October 2023 Issue 190 November 2023 Issue 191 December 2023 Issue 192 February 2024
Fall Line Adventure works with resorts, brands, events, athletes and activity operators to create a comprehensive, entertaining and inspirational one-stop information resource for all things ‘Summer in the Mountains’.
The audience is the outdoorsy adventure type who is attracted to several different sports. Featured activities include biking, trail running, hiking, wild swimming, climbing, van life, camping and more.
Fall Line Adventure is packed full of inspiration and information to help readers at different levels of the sports or activities. Epic destinations, route suggestions, events, skills and advice – Fall Line Adventure exists to facilitate those vertical summer kicks.
If you’re looking to reach the vast number of skiers who participate in summer sports then Fall Line Adventure can help spread the word. Let’s inspire them together.
BIKING
Life on two wheels is about the simple, soul-food type stuff that keeps you occupied and moving forward. Slowly but surely.
Whether you’re keen to spread the word about an epic new gravel bike itinerary, looking to gear adventurous families with e-bikes, or wanting to promote your destination as a two-wheeled adventure heaven, this is the place to do it.
TRAIL
& MOUNTAIN RUNNING
Whether you’re looking to reach newbie trail runners or seasoned ultra-endurance athletes, Fall Line Adventure will be packed full of inspiration and information to help all levels of mountain runners. Epic destinations, guides, gear, events, skills and comps - it exists to facilitate those vertical summer kicks.
HIKING & SCRAMBLING
Key contacts
MEET THE TEAM
RICH EVANS, SALES MANAGER
sales@fall-line.co.uk
Rich’s parents met in Austria in 1966 and he made his own first turns on a family trip to Wangs, a tiny Swiss resort which even FL hasn’t yet visited. The bug firmly caught on those family trips, Rich has spent seasons between ‘real jobs’ working as a ski instructor, chalet host and ski host. He now lives in Sussex and plans as much skiing as he can. Rich loves a road trip and really, really wants to ski in Japan. Mainly because powder days are his favourites – whether under blue skies or in a blizzard!
NICOLA ISEARD, PUBLISHER & EDITOR
nicola@fall-line.co.uk
Nicola first took to the snow aged four. An all-in-one from C&A and lessons from her (also novice) parents set her on a path that would dominate her life, seeing her race as a teenager, teach in Switzerland, ski in destinations from Russia to Revelstoke and ultimately move to the Portes du Soleil, where she lives with her equally ski-mad husband and their sons. As well as editing and publishing Fall Line, Nicola is the chief editor of Welove2ski.com and Ski+board magazine. Unofficial motto: “The steeper, the better”.
AL MORGAN, GEAR EDITOR
al@fall-line.co.uk
If you’re looking to reach the growing numbers of skiers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to maintaining their year-round mountain fitness, then it’s time we had a chat. Fall Line Adventure works with the best brands, destinations and adventure operators on the planet to bring our readers the inspiration and advice they need to get geared for top adventures in high places.
WATERSPORTS
Wild swimming, lake SUPing, river kayaking… aqua adventures are one of the best things about summer in the mountains. Whatever activity you are looking to promote we can help put together inspirational articles on where to go, how to do it and the gear to get.
CLIMBING & MOUNTAINEERING
If you’re looking to reach the vast number of skiers who climb in the summer then we can help spread the word. Gear, route suggestions, destinations, skills and advice, comps - our audience are big-time fans of the mountains.
VAN LIFE, OUTDOOR & CAMPING
Al grew up in the expansive countryside of Northumberland, which engendered a deep passion for the outdoors. He learnt to ski in Norway, on school trips, then got into climbing and mountaineering across the north of Britain and the Alps. His love for mountains, their rocky visage and of skiing drives him to go touring into wild spaces. He’ll take every opportunity he can to slip on a powerful boot and carve his way down groomed terrain (yup, the boy loves skiing). He’s worked in ski retail, ran service centres in the Alps and London, and has been testing ski equipment to help consumers for 20 years. His goal; to help skiers have an even better time in the mountains.
KATIE BAMBER, ONLINE EDITOR
katie@fall-line.co.uk
Long coach journeys to the Alps on school trips and forever finding herself lost from the group make up Katie’s first memories of skiing. But ski fever was caught, with many more winters spent driving around the mountains. Between seasons teaching (in Bariloche and Zell am See) and full-time ski writing a decade later, Katie spent a few years off-topic as a journalist in Istanbul, thankfully with snowy mountains near enough by. More recent winters in Sun Valley and Hakuba have resulted in a new found joy of travelling upwards on skis. A knack for getting lost remains.
More and more of us are seeking out freedom in new ways, buying or converting campervans, investing in family camping gear or getting geared for wilderness bivi adventures.
If you’re looking to make your destination, campervan company, camping gear, or information resource get noticed in an increasingly crowded landscape, we can help you stand out and hone in on our big-style adventure-loving audience.
Page 18 | Fall Line Skiing – Media Pack 2024/2025 Fall Line Skiing – Media Pack 2024/2025 | Page 19
Caption The next few months are looking up… WORDS ABIGAIL BUTCHER SLUFF RESORTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT RESORTS FOR SUMMER ADVENTURE CHAMONIX Why go? Chamonix as much home extreme mountain activities the summer the winter, from cragging, bouldering and mountaineering e-biking, paragliding and white-water rafting on the Grade Arve river running through the town centre. There are two dedicated mountain bike zones, Tour and Les Houches, with biking restricted some other areas. While hiking, climbing and mountaineering here second-to-none, with summer glaciers practice alpine skills, Chamonix also trail runner’s paradise; has hundreds kilometres singletrack trails, lofty climbs and cosy mountain huts, with specially designed map and app (valleedutrail.com) and some of Europe’s top trail running races (see below). For families there are easier walks, bike trails along the l’Arve river, ferrata, horse riding and several leisure parks, including the Accro Park Les Gaillands and the Planards Area with 1,300m-long luge. The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB), week-long trail running festival where some 10,000 elite and amateur trail runners from over the world converge Chamonix every August take part seven races over the course the week, supported by thousands MORZINE Why go? The Portes du Soleil lift network runs all summer long trail runners, hikers and climbers and course mountain bikers. The mecca France’s mountain biking scene, the PDS home one of the biggest bike parks Europe, with more than 600km trails and 19 bike-modified chairs. From enduro and cross-country bike trails, World Cup-level downhill bike trails, family mountain bike trails, there something for everyone. The road biking excellent around here too (hence why it’s stop this year’s Tour France). Morzine village also well set up for summer family adventures. There’s an aquatic centre with outdoor pools, summer luge run from the top the Crusaz chairlift down the Pleney slopes, high-rope adventure park among the treetops, and horse riding. Dérêches that runs along the beautiful River Dranse which itself huge draw, with numerous companies offering white-water rafting and hydrospeeding excursions throughout the summer (ed Nicola recommends Frogs Rafting!). Alternatively, you want take to the skies, around half dozen schools teach paragliding offer tandem flights, you can even take hot air balloon helicopter flight Lake Montriond, close Morzine, wonderful place for stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking and wild swimming. Set 1,072m, this 79-acre lake great spot families and groups, with splash pool for children, walking track around the edge and nearby restaurants and BBQ pits. RATINGS: Summer skiing: 0/10 Trail running: 8/10 Hiking: 8/10 Mountain biking: Road biking: Mountaineering: 5/10 Rock climbing: 7/10 Watersports: 10/10 Family fun: FOUR OF THE BEST... MOUNTAIN RUNNERS TRIED & TESTED LA SPORTIVA BUSHIDO £130 lasportiva.com Tested by Sophie Weight: 300g per shoe (42) Drop: Stack height (heel, forefoot): 19mm, 13mm Best suited narrow-footed trail runners with penchant for technical terrain, the second generation the Bushido legit mountain goat. may be hardier soul than its predecessor (the ‘II’ comes with compression-moulded EVA midsole, burlier upper and upgraded rubber toe cap), but its DNA remains unchanged SALOMON S/LAB PULSAR £170 salmon.com Tested Sophie SPEC: Weight: 170g per shoe Drop: 6mm Stack height (heel, forefoot): 24.5mm, 18.5mm This über-fast and light speed demon was designed by the legendary Kilian Jornet before he departed Salomon HQ for pastures new. Weighing 170g it’s an unfathomably light shoe aimed FKTchasing mountain athletes and the featheriest featured this line-up by over 100g. Narrow-fitting, precise and agile, comes with sock-like upper that’s annoyingly difficult to pull on but immediately comes into its own once you’ve wiggled your foot into the shoe. Ideal for runners seeking minimalist ride that encourages and facilitates good form, the S/Lab Pulsar may stripped-back rapido racer yet feels surprisingly cushioned and springy the trail. As an injury-prone runner with sub-optimal bio-mechanics, I’m always bit wary when comes to minimalist shoes, they can be pretty unforgiving and that hesistancy was further heightened when saw the fixed insole that meant any chance popping in my custom inners was off the cards. Despite my initial misgivings, the S/Lab Pulsar felt immediately reassuring soon hit the trail. Lively and bouncy the forefoot, the cushion-to-weight ratio second to none and the rocker delivered really propulsive ride. With minimal heel cushioning certainly favours mid/forefoot strike but you can adjust your form accordingly, you’re for really rapid ride. Other features include the breathable mesh upper that keeps things cool when you’re working up sweat and the quick lace system that’s easy adjust and keeps things SCOTT SUPERTRAC £130 OR £150 (GORE-TEX VERSION) scott-sports.com Tested by Martin Weight: 320g per shoe Drop: Stack height (heel, forefoot): 29mm, 21mm The Supertrac is back and the third edition better than ever. found the sole on previous models too chunky compared many other fell-specific shoes, which meant they felt tad unstable in the ankle area rough terrain. No longer. The latest Supertrac comes with AeroFoam+, which provides greater stability, as well as an upgraded heel cup and secure tongue that ensures the shoe stays in place, no matter how challenging the conditions underfoot. The new rip-stop upper lighter, more supple and provides better than previous models. also have wide hobbit feet, so the Scott last (in both ski boots and trail shoes) suits me well out the box, giving plenty wiggle room for those hairy toes, yet still grips the heel. love the new sole has aggressive enough lugs provide grip on the muddiest of hillsides, yet the shape the lugs sheds excess mud and dirt, the sole stays clean and clog free when you transition rocky sections. There’s always balance to strike between ‘hard’ rubber that cuts into turf, yet fails grip on rock but this seems like an ideal compound for the compromise and works well over both. The sole shape gives an aggressive outside edge, hold on vegetated traverses, yet provides flat enough platform run smoothly on graded tracks and prepared trails. And let’s be honest, even the most passionate hill runner will spend time on pathways and flatter ground getting to and from the good stuff. Happy on types of terrain: one-shoe quiver take you from your front door the highest peaks. ARC’TERX NORVAN LD GTX £180 arcteryx.com Tested by Martin SPEC: Weight: 275g per shoe (42) Drop: 6mm Stack height (heel, forefoot): 29mm, 23mm The supremely light Norvan LD GTX is the latest addition to Arc’teryx’s trail running-specific Norvan family. highly cushioned, comfortable and stable shoe built for long distance (LD) adventures the mountains, it’s great option for runners who appreciate soft yet protected ride underfoot. The generous InFuse midsole with anti-fatigue insert may be lightweight, but provides the type of cushioning that only those whose bodies have suffered the penalties long distance running will truly appreciate. On the subject of comfort, the new last shape the Norvan LD GTX offers way more room for toe splay on impact, which goes long way keeping things blister-free over long distances when your feet get hot and can swell up whole size. Throw in breathable yet durable Cordura upper and you’re looking shoe that’s built the distance. The 4mm lugs are not the deepest, but the aggressive cut provides good grip in variety of conditions. Altogether, the sole provides smooth flat profile and substantial rocker roll over tracks and graded pathways. The Vibram Megagrip rubber outsoles ensures ‘as good as gets’ grip over rocky terrain. For fast lap of the Snowdon horseshoe over the rocky pinnacles of Crib Goch and back along the well-travelled paths, ideal. Those travelling consistently boggy terrain, however, may want to look elsewhere… VERDICT: Weatherproof, with super-grippy Vibram tread and masses of shock absorption. Comfy all heck. 94 www.fall-line.co.uk www.fall-line.co.uk 95 From rocks to roots, dusty trails to technical terrain – these mountain running shoes are built for peak performance one-shoe quiver that will take you As-good-as-it-gets grip and comfy too! – aka a rapid and confidence-inspiring shoe for rugged and challenging terrain. The balance cushioning vs on-trail feel is bang for experienced runners who like feel connected the terrain; aka there’s just enough cushioning for pain-free long days the mountains, but not much that you lose that all-important on-trail feel. Every time pull on pair of Bushidos am immediately impressed, both how well they fit my narrow, low-volume foot, and how brilliantly they adapt changes angles, rocks and Grip-wise, the lugs are deep enough provide solid traction on dusty trails and loose gravel, and the FriXion Red rubber sole really shines on slabs and rocks, making this ideal shoe for skyrunning comps and scrambling. you’re planning running in deep bogs and mud you will want scale up something with deeper lugs. Likewise, you mostly find yourself running on fire roads and smooth flat trails, then the reasonably stiff Bushido likely be overkill. But you’re looking technical shoe for long days altitude the Alps and/or dry summer mountain routes back the UK, this may well be the vertical warrior you seek. VERDICT: Light, stable and supportive – a technical shoe that will work well for experienced and competitive place for the duration of your run, with no faffing and tightening required. While elite runners will doubt be able run super-long distances the S/Lab Pulsar, mere mountain mortals may find little too low-profile for bone-jarring ultras with mega elevation. Super-muddy terrain also off the cards due to the S/Lab Pulsar’s relatively short lugs and there are certainly questions surrounding its durability due to its spectacularly feathery nature… That said, the combined and feel of the S/Lab Pulsar genuinely superlative placing very firmly at the front of the light trail racing and vertical KM chasing pack. VERDICT: The ultimate racing machine for fire roads, dry trails, light mud and rocky sections. Injury-prone runners should make gradual transition. Put your best foot (and paddle) forward The next few months are looking up… WORDS ABIGAIL BUTCHER SLUFF RESORTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT RESORTS FOR SUMMER ADVENTURE CHAMONIX Why go? Chamonix much home for extreme mountain activities the summer as the winter, from cragging, bouldering and mountaineering to e-biking, paragliding and white-water rafting on the Grade Arve running through the town centre. There are two dedicated mountain bike zones, Le Tour and Les Houches, with restricted some other areas. While hiking, climbing and mountaineering here second-to-none, with summer glaciers to practice alpine skills, Chamonix also trail runner’s paradise; has hundreds kilometres singletrack trails, climbs and cosy mountain huts, with specially designed map and app (valleedutrail.com) and some Europe’s top trail running races below). For families there are easier bike the l’Arve river, via ferrata, horse riding and several leisure including the Accro Park Les Gaillands and the Planards Area with 1,300m-long luge. The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB), week-long trail running festival where 10,000 elite and amateur trail runners from all over the world converge on Chamonix every August take part seven races the course the week, supported thousands volunteers and watched by an incredible 50,000 spectators. RATINGS: Summer skiing: Trail running: 10/10 Hiking: 10/10 Mountain biking: Road biking: Mountaineering: 10/10 Rock climbing: 10/10 Watersports: Family fun: MORZINE Why go? The Portes Soleil lift network runs summer long for trail runners, hikers and climbers and course mountain bikers. The mecca France’s mountain biking scene, the PDS home to one biggest bike Europe, with more 600km trails and bike-modified chairs. enduro and cross-country bike World Cup-level downhill bike to family mountain bike trails, something everyone. The road biking excellent around here too (hence why it’s stop on this year’s Tour de France). Morzine village also well set summer family adventures. There’s aquatic centre with outdoor pools, summer luge run from the top the La Crusaz chairlift down the Pleney slopes, high-rope adventure park among the treetops, and riding. Dérêches that runs along the beautiful River Dranse which itself huge numerous companies offering white-water rafting and hydrospeeding excursions throughout the summer (ed Nicola recommends Frogs Rafting!). Alternatively, you want take the skies, around half dozen schools teach paragliding or offer tandem flights, you can even hot balloon helicopter flight Lake Montriond, close to Morzine, wonderful place for stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking and wild swimming. Set at 1,072m, this 79-acre lake great spot for families and groups, with splash pool children, walking track around the edge and nearby restaurants and BBQ RATINGS: Summer skiing: 0/10 Trail running: 8/10 Hiking: 8/10 Mountain biking: Road biking: Mountaineering: 5/10 Rock climbing: 7/10 Watersports: 10/10 Family fun: Morzine With hundreds singletrack trails, Chamonix trailrunner’s paradise Happy days at Lake Montriond FOUR OF THE BEST... MOUNTAIN RUNNERS TRIED & TESTED LA SPORTIVA BUSHIDO £130 lasportiva.com by Sophie Weight: 300g per shoe (42) Drop: Stack height (heel, forefoot): 19mm, 13mm suited to narrow-footed trail runners penchant terrain, the second generation of the Bushido is legit mountain goat. may hardier soul than its predecessor (the ‘II’ comes with compression-moulded EVA midsole, burlier upper and upgraded rubber toe but DNA remains unchanged SALOMON S/LAB PULSAR £170 salmon.com Tested by Sophie SPEC: Weight: 170g per shoe Drop: 6mm Stack height (heel, forefoot): 24.5mm, 18.5mm This über-fast and light speed demon was designed by the legendary Kilian Jornet before he departed Salomon HQ for pastures new. Weighing 170g it’s an unfathomably light shoe aimed FKTchasing mountain athletes and the featheriest featured this line-up by over 100g. Narrow-fitting, precise and agile, comes sock-like upper that’s annoyingly difficult pull on but immediately comes into its own once you’ve wiggled your foot into the shoe. Ideal for runners seeking minimalist ride that encourages and facilitates good form, the S/Lab Pulsar may stripped-back rapido racer yet feels surprisingly cushioned and springy the trail. As an injury-prone runner with sub-optimal bio-mechanics, I’m always wary when comes minimalist shoes, they can be pretty unforgiving and that hesistancy was further heightened when saw the fixed insole that meant any chance popping my custom inners was off the Despite initial misgivings, the S/Lab Pulsar felt immediately reassuring soon as hit the trail. Lively and bouncy the forefoot, the cushion-to-weight ratio second to none and the rocker delivered really propulsive ride. With minimal heel cushioning certainly favours mid/forefoot strike but you can adjust your form accordingly, you’re for really rapid ride. Other features include the breathable mesh upper that keeps things cool when you’re working up sweat and quick lace system that’s easy adjust and keeps things SCOTT SUPERTRAC £130 £150 (GORE-TEX VERSION) scott-sports.com by Martin Weight: 320g per shoe Drop: Stack height (heel, forefoot): 29mm, 21mm The Supertrac back and the third edition better than ever. found the sole on previous models too chunky compared many other fell-specific shoes, which meant they felt tad unstable in the ankle terrain. No longer. The latest Supertrac comes AeroFoam+, provides greater stability, well an upgraded heel cup and secure tongue that ensures the shoe stays place, matter how challenging the underfoot. The new rip-stop upper lighter, more supple and provides than previous models. also have wide hobbit feet, so the Scott last (in ski boots and trail shoes) suits me well the giving plenty of wiggle room for those hairy toes, yet still grips the heel. love the new sole has aggressive enough lugs provide grip on the muddiest hillsides, yet the shape the lugs sheds excess and dirt, so the sole stays clean and clog free when you transition to rocky sections. There’s always balance to strike between ‘hard’ rubber that cuts into yet fails grip rock but this seems like an ideal compound for compromise and works well over both. The sole shape gives aggressive outside edge, to hold on vegetated traverses, yet provides flat enough platform to run smoothly on graded and prepared trails. let’s be honest, even the most passionate hill runner will spend time on pathways and flatter ground getting and from the good stuff. Happy all types terrain: one-shoe quiver to take you from your front door the highest ARC’TERX NORVAN LD GTX £180 arcteryx.com by Martin SPEC: Weight: 275g per shoe (42) Drop: 6mm Stack height (heel, forefoot): 29mm, 23mm The light LD GTX the latest addition Arc’teryx’s trail running-specific Norvan family. highly cushioned, comfortable and stable shoe for long distance (LD) adventures in the mountains, it’s great option runners who soft yet protected ride underfoot. The generous InFuse midsole with anti-fatigue insert may be lightweight, but provides type of cushioning that only those whose bodies have suffered long distance running will truly appreciate. On the subject of comfort, the new last shape the Norvan LD GTX offers way more room for toe splay which long way keeping things blister-free long distances when feet get hot and can swell whole size. Throw yet durable Cordura upper and you’re looking shoe that’s the distance. The 4mm lugs are not the deepest, but the aggressive cut provides good grip variety conditions. Altogether, the sole provides flat profile and substantial rocker roll over tracks and graded pathways. The Vibram Megagrip rubber outsoles ensures good gets’ grip over rocky terrain. For fast lap of the Snowdon horseshoe over the rocky pinnacles Crib Goch and back along the well-travelled is ideal. Those travelling consistently boggy terrain, however, may want look elsewhere… VERDICT: Weatherproof, with super-grippy Vibram tread and masses shock absorption. Comfy as all heck. 94 www.fall-line.co.uk www.fall-line.co.uk 95 From rocks to roots, dusty trails to technical terrain – these mountain running shoes are built for peak performance one-shoe quiver that will take you from trail peak As-good-as-it-gets grip and comfy too! – aka a rapid and shoe for rugged and challenging terrain. The balance cushioning on-trail feel bang on for experienced runners who like feel terrain; aka there’s just enough cushioning for long days the mountains, but not so much that you lose that all-important on-trail feel. Every time pull on pair of Bushidos am immediately impressed, both by how well they narrow, low-volume foot, and brilliantly they adapt to changes angles, rocks and Grip-wise, the lugs deep provide solid traction on dusty trails and loose gravel, and the FriXion Red rubber sole really shines on slabs and rocks, making this ideal for skyrunning comps and scrambling. If you’re planning on running deep bogs and mud you will want scale up to something with deeper lugs. Likewise, you mostly find yourself running fire roads and smooth flat trails, then the reasonably stiff Bushido likely be overkill. But you’re looking for technical shoe for long days altitude the Alps and/or dry summer mountain back in the UK, this well be the warrior you seek. VERDICT: Light, stable and supportive – technical shoe that will work well for experienced and competitive place the duration your run, with no faffing and tightening required. While elite runners will doubt be able to run super-long distances in the Pulsar, mere mountain mortals may find little too low-profile bone-jarring ultras with mega elevation. Super-muddy terrain also off the cards due the S/Lab Pulsar’s relatively short lugs and there are certainly questions surrounding its durability due its spectacularly feathery That said, the combined and feel the S/Lab Pulsar genuinely superlative very firmly the front of the light trail racing and vertical KM chasing pack. VERDICT: The racing machine for fire roads, dry trails, light mud and rocky sections. Injury-prone runners should make gradual transition. LIFE’S BETTER IN THE MOUNTAINS
