The evolution of Technology in Ski Touring

School children skiing in 1903 Kiandra NSW

Harris General Store 1900, Kiandra NSW

Learning to Ski 1900, Kiandra NSW.

Delivering the Mail 1903 , Kiandra NSW

Gentlemen Skiing 1927

The first successful ski tour crossing of the Main Range NSW, Wool hats, tweed jackets, long thin skis made from timber.

Nordic Ski racers 1930’s

Ski Tourers 1960’s

Ski Touring 1970’s

Notice the all wool garments, A-frame packs,

Ski - tourers 1970Moving Into Plastic Rain Jackets, Synthetic Ski Pants, Canvas Gaiters, With Wool Gloves and Beanies.

Ski-tourer 1980Note the Woolen Army Pants, Early polarfleece, and beany.

School group, Lake Mountain 2003

Dome tents, synthetic breathable shells, bright coloured fabrics, polar fleece more common than wool for outdoor clothing, slightly shorter skis with metal edges.

Ski tourers 2011

Notice the change in clothing, ski bindings, tent materials and structure.

Technology and outdoor experiences

Overview

As in all parts of our society, technology has had a major impact on the way in which outdoor experiences are carried out.

E.gs of Technology in Outdoor Experiences

Development of light weight equipment e.g. packs, stoves, skis, tents, mountain bikes, canoes/kayaks

Communication devices e.g. radios, phones, Epirbs

Examples (cont.)

Greater understanding of body performance e.g needs for carbohydrates, fluids.

Specialised materials e.g. polar fleece, down sleeping bags, jackets, Gortex.

Impacts of Technology

The affect of technology on outdoor experiences has impacted on both the participant in the outdoors and the outdoor environment.

Impact on Participants

Positive:Greater participation due to increased safety, comfort, performance.

Able to take on more challenging experiences in more isolated areas.

**Others?

Impact on Participants

Some cons –Value of achievement may be seen to be decreased.

Becoming too dependent on technological advancements like GPS, IPhones that tell us weather forecasting etc…Losing our ability to read signs in our environment (Weather, topography etc).

More difficult to find isolated areas due to increased participation.

**What others can you think of?

Impact on Environment

Cons - Increased numbers results in greater human impact.

Visual intrusion into natural areas.

Improved equipment may result in less impact e.g stoves, tents etc.

May also increase levels of accessibility, numbers participating

**Can you think of some positive impacts?