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The Ski Podcast

The Ski Podcast

Want to know more about the world of skiing? The Ski Podcast is an award-winning podcast with over 330 episodes, hosted by Iain Martin.

It is the most listened to snowsports podcast in the UK, exploring the people, places and issues shaping the world of skiing, featuring interviews with pro skiers and snowboarders, resort leaders, industry experts and personalities from across the snowsports community.

You can catch up with our entire back catalog at www.theskipodcast.com

The Ski Podcast is a multiple award winning podcast. We were voted 'Best Wintersports Podcast' in the 2022 Sports Podcast Awards, as well as a finalist for 'Best Broadcast Programme' in the 2023 and 2026 Travel Media Awards and 'Best Travel and Adventure' category in 'Independent Podcast Awards' 2026.

Iain is a freelance journalist specialising in snowsports. He is also the founder of Ski Flight Free - a campaign to encourage skiers to take the train or drive to their ski holiday. 

Email: theskipodcast@gmail.com
Music: www.purple-planet.com

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  • 32 episodes
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  • English

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  • Today · 51 min

    334: The Rise Festival in Les 2 Alpes, Skiing The North Face of Everest & Women’s Skiwear (that actually fits!)

    Today, we discuss the Rise Festival in Les 2 Alpes, find out about an inclusive ski and snowboard brand for women and speak to the man who skied down the North Face of Everest. Host, Katja Gaskell was joined in the studio by Matteo Desouche, Events Manager at Les 2 Alpes and Maria Baker, founder of the ski and snowboard brand, Nobody’s Princess. Iain Martin also caught up with extreme skier Jim Morrison and Jimmy Chin in London ahead of the premiere of their new film, ‘Everest: The Other Side’ ----------- Les 2 Alpes sponsors The Ski Podcast – this winter we will be finding out more about the resort’s long seven-month ski season, the great activities on offer there in summer, and some of the people who live and work there and make Les 2 Alpes such a fantastic destination. ------------ SHOW NOTES Freddy Carrick-Smith scored his first World Cup points in Sölden (4:30) The Ski Podcast is sponsoring the Carrick-Smith brothers for a third season (4:45) The Ski Podcast was a finalist in the ‘Best Audio Programme’ category at the Travel Media Awards and ‘Best Travel and Adventure’ category at The Independent Podcast Awards (5:00) What is the Rise Festival? (5:30) How did it start? (6:30) Packages and tickets (8:30) What does a day look like during the Rise Festival? (10:00) The main acts in 2026 (12:15) Bongo Bingo (15:00) How did ‘Nobody’s Princess’ start? (18:15) The Fit Quiz (22:00) Funding via Kickstarter (25:00) Technical specs (28:30) Collaborations with Jeanne Crane-Mauzy (32:00) ‘Everest: The Other Side’ interview with Jim Morrison and Jimmy Chin (34:00) Feedback You can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or you can drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Jonothan Shroyer: "Over 330 episodes is some serious staying power, congratulations!. The 'Ski and Art' crossover [Katie Bamber’s book in Episode 331] sounds like a fun one - added to the list!" Peter Hallewell: “Really enjoyed ‘The Rise and Fall of Bladon Lines' [Episode 252]" Gerry: "Very much enjoy listening to your podcast on my runs!" You can catch up with over 330 episodes at theskipodcast.com – just search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest. If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help the podcast, there are three things you can do: Follow us, or subscribe, so you never miss an episode Give us a review on Apple Podcasts or leave a comment on Spotify Save yourself some money on your ski hire by using the code ‘SKIPODCAST27’ when you book at intersportrent.com. You’ll get a guaranteed additional discount, or simply take this link for your discount to be automatically applied.

  • October 30 · 52 min

    333: The Best Ski Helmets and Googles 2027

    We review the Best Ski Helmets and Best Ski & Snowboard Goggles for the 2027 winter season, covering options from all parts of the price range. Host Iain Martin was joined by The Ski Podcast’s equipment expert Al Morgan. ----------- Les 2 Alpes sponsors The Ski Podcast – this winter we will be finding out more about the resort’s long seven-month ski season, the great activities on offer there in summer, and some of the people who live and work there and make Les 2 Alpes such a fantastic destination. ------------ - This special equipment episode has been made possible by the Profeet Ski Boot Lab. - Go to www.theskipodcast.com or our YouTube channel to see graphics of all these ski boots ------------ SHOW NOTES Key terms: ‘Fit is Key’ (3:00) Safety Standards (3:30) ‘Multi norm’ helmets (4:15) Liner (5:30) MIPS (7:00) How to do up your strap (8:45) What is a Fidlock buckle? (9:30) In-mold v. hardshell construction? (10:00) Venting (11:45) Recco (12:30) Visor Helmets (14:00) Sustainability trends (15:30) BEST SNOWSPORTS HELMETS FOR WINTER 2027 (18:00) Smith Nexus MIPS - £330 (18:15) “It looks great, is available a range of colours and the wee peak at the front adds to the look, as well as protecting the top of your goggles from snow.” Head Faero Exp MIPS - £200 (21:00) “The two things that stood out of the new Faero, and in particular this Faero Exp Mips model, were the instant comfort and the new Mips Integra TX system.” Bollé Zenos MIPS - £150 (23:30) “We found this to be a pleasantly light helmet and, as always with our experience of Bollé helmets, it is very comfortable.“ Salomon Pioneer 3 Access MIPS- £110 (25:00) “The Pioneer is nice and light on your head and delivers Salomon’s customary comfort.” Iain also mentioned the Oakley Mod BC helmet (27:00) Al does much of his testing at the SIGB Ski Test (28:30) Goggle terminology: (29:00) UV Protection (29:15) VLT & Category (30:00) What does Photochromic mean? (32:00) How do you decide when to change your lenses? (33:00) How to look after your goggles (35:15) Polarized lenses (37:00) BEST SKI & SNOWBOARD GOGGLES FOR WINTER 2027 (38:00) Oakley Mont Scape L - £207 (40:30) “You forget you’re wearing it, and you have an almost unhindered view, making these a fantastic choice for not just piste skiing, but also in freeride terrain when you want the best overall view possible.” SunGod Ullrs- £165 (42:45) “The Ullrs have a classic framed aesthetic…On SunGod’s website you can change the lens, frame and strap colour, and there’s loads to select from so you can make them as individual as you.” Panda Optics RS2 - £142 (45:00) “The frame cutouts work over prescription lenses, and the triple layer face foam is really comfortable. The cylindrical lens has an almost frameless aesthetic and looks great.” Scott Neo- £100 (46:30) "This green cat S1 lens blew me away. It has Scott’s ace AMP lens tech for superb contrast and definition. We used this when the clouds had moved in, even with terrible light this lens was truly sensational.” Feedback You can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or you can drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Xander: “I race and I wanted to get your views on Dynastar on race skis…” Louise Cotter: “Delighted that the Best Ski Boots episode arrived in time for my Friday run. Enjoyed every minute of it. Obviously, my old boots will be now used as flower pots!” Daniel Morgan: “Really enjoyed the episode about the Best Skis for the new season!” You can catch up with over 330 episodes at theskipodcast.com – just search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest. If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help the podcast, there are three things you can do: Follow us, or subscribe, so you never miss an episode Give us a review on Apple Podcasts or leave a comment on Spotify Save yourself some money on your ski hire by using the code ‘SKIPODCAST27’ when you book at intersportrent.com. You’ll get a guaranteed additional discount, or simply take this link for your discount to be automatically applied.

  • October 23 · 45 min

    332: Snow Show London 2026 | Mia Brookes, Ed Leigh, Dave Ryding, Chemmy Alcott & more

    A London Snow Show special, recorded on location at the 50th London Snow Show, at Kensington Olympia. Host Iain Martin speaks with GB Snowsport athletes including gold medal winner Charlotte Bankes, snowboarder Mia Brookes and Alpine racers Molly Butler and Zak Carrick Smith. He’s also joined by the newly retired Dave Ryding and Chemmy Alcott, Ed Leigh and Graham Bell to discuss the axing of ‘Ski Sunday’. We also hear the latest news from Carv, Protect Our Winters and Snowcamp, as well as plenty of other exhibitors from the show, including some regular contributors to the podcast. ------------ Les 2 Alpes sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means this winter we will be finding out more about the resort’s long seven-month ski season, the great activities on offer there in summer, and some of the people who live and work there and make Les 2 Alpes such a fantastic destination. ------------ SHOW NOTES Charlotte Bankes (2:20) Mia Brookes (5:00) Molly Butler (7:15) The Ski Podcast sponsors Zak, Freddy and Luca Carrick-Smith (8:45) Zak Carrick Smith (8:55) Fall Liners YouTube channel (11:45) Dave Ryding (12:20) Chemmy Alcott (15:00) Ed Leigh on his new video show ‘Snow Globe’ (16:50) Graham Bell (17:30) Jordan Bayliss from Carv – ‘the wearable ski coach’ (20:20) Morv Bett from Snow Camp (24:50) Iain led a panel about night trains to the snow (26:45) Cat Ainsworth from POW UK (27:00) The POW Clean Miles Campaign (28:00) Gavin from the Re-action Collective (29:00) Listen to Iain’s interview with Alice Sainsbury from Un-para-ld (32:20) Erin Flynn from Ruanua (34:00) Iain interviewed Erin in Episode 234 Johny Midnight (36:00) Iain spoke in Episode 331 to Katie Bamber about her new book ‘Ski & Art’ (36:15) James and Sinead from Sauze Online (38:00) Mike Richards (39:15) James Gambrill, London Snow Show organiser (41:00) Feedback I love getting feedback from listeners. You can let us know what you thought by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or you can drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Louise Cotter: “The Ski Podcast is my weekly fix to the mountains: I’m always looking forward to it.” Morgs: “Great listen this week in Episode 330. Bring on the London Snow Show” Josh: "Episode 328 with the Man in Seat 61 on the new Brussels to Milan night train was brilliant" There are now 331 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest to listen to. I can also tell you If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help the podcast, there are three things you can do: Follow us, or subscribe, so you never miss an episode Give us a review on Apple Podcasts or leave a comment on Spotify Save yourself some money on your ski hire by using the code ‘SKIPODCAST27’ when you book at intersportrent.com. You’ll get a guaranteed additional discount, or simply take this link for your discount to be automatically applied.

  • October 16 · 38 min

    331: The Jandri 3S & the Future of Ski Lifts in Les 2 Alpes plus the new ‘Ski & Art’ Book

    We find out about the new Jandri 3S lift in Les 2 Alpes, why it's so important, why Telemixte lifts are the future and how the resort decides which lifts to upgrade, plus we look at the new book ‘Ski & Art’, featuring artists from around the world whose creative focus is on skiing. We also have news of an exclusive interview with the first ever man to ski down the North Face of Everest. Host Iain Martin was joined by freelance journalist Katie Bamber and Jean-Charles Thomas, Director of SATA – the lift company in Les 2 Alpes. ------------ Les 2 Alpes sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means this winter we will be finding out more about the resort’s long seven-month ski season, the great activities on offer there in summer, and some of the people who live and work there and make Les 2 Alpes such a fantastic destination. ------------ SHOW NOTES Katie has been on the show discussing vanlife in the Alps, the Haute Route and Geilo in Norway (2:00) LISTEX is the London International Snowsports Trade (4:00) Listen to Lou Pode, Ski Mindset Coach in Episode 310 (4:45) The London Snow Show is at Kensington Olympia on 17 and 18 October (5:00) Listen to organiser James Gambrill talking about it in Episode 330 (5:00) Secure a free ticket to the Show here (5:15) Iain and Al will be on the equipment stage at 11am on Saturday (5:15) Subscribe to The Ski Podcast to ensure you hear Iain’s interview with Oscar-winning documentary maker Jimmy Chin and freeskier Jim Morrison (6:00) Les 2 Alpes offers a 7-month ski season that LDA offers from lateNov to early Jul (7:30) Why Les 2 Alpes glacier does not open for skiing in mid-summer (11:00) Why the Jandri 3S upgrade was so important to Les 2 Alpes (12:45) Is the new lift a hedge against climate change (16:15) Some of the newer lifts are ‘Telemixte’ lifts (17:30) Which lifts are replaced or upgraded first? (19:30) The Champamé ski lift was partially rebuilt using components from Les Orres (20:45) Jean-Charles served in the army for over 10 years (23:00) Katie’s new book is called ‘Ski & Art’ (26:30) Deciding on which artists to include How long did the process take? (28:00) Deciding which of their work to include (29:00) Buy ‘Ski & Art’ online ((34:00) Feedback I love getting feedback from listeners. You can let us know what you thought by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or you can drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Louise Cotter: “What an episode 330 was! So much great content, the LifePass is a revolution - it is going to remove so much stress from a ski holiday for everyone.” Ed Whieldon “I enjoyed your presentation about driving EVs to the snow at the Northern Snow Show. Will let you know how it goes!” Ryhoos: “Great interview in Episode 325 with Andzej Bargiel. Andrzej is our national pride. He’s such an amazing guy.” Stuart: “I love listening to the podcast while I'm in the gym, pre-season training.” If you’d like a Ski Podcast sticker for your skis, helmet or phone case, just drop us an email with your address to theskipodcast@gmail.com There are now 331 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest to listen to. I can also tell you If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help the podcast, there are three things you can do: Follow us, or subscribe, so you never miss an episode Give us a review on Apple Podcasts or leave a comment on Spotify Save yourself some money on your ski hire by using the code ‘SKIPODCAST27’ when you book at intersportrent.com. You’ll get a guaranteed additional discount, or simply take this link for your discount to be automatically applied.

  • October 9 · 56 min

    330: Kirsty Muir, Chemmy Alcott on LifePass and How to become a Snowboard Judge

    We hear from Kirsty Muir in an exclusive interview, Chemmy Alcott introduces us to LifePass and we find out how to become a snowboard judge. We also have updates from the Northern and London Snow Shows and some big news about our podcasts in November. Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Chemmy Alcott, Pete McFetridge, founder and CEO of LifePass and FIS-qualified snowboard judge Sophie Smith. ------------ Les 2 Alpes sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means this winter we will be finding out more about the resort’s long seven-month ski season, the great activities on offer there in summer, and some of the people who live and work there and make Les 2 Alpes such a fantastic destination. ------------ SHOW NOTES The Northern Snow Show took place at The Snow Centre, Manchester (4:30) Virginia Anderson from DSUK told us about their new hub in Episode 323 (5:00) Morv Bett from SnowCamp was a guest in Episode 324 (6:30) Matt Garka hosts the Skiing is Believing Podcast (8:00) (0:24 to 0:54, so 30 secs) Scott Hanlon is Activities Manager at Glencoe in Scotland (8:45) British freestyle skier Kirsty Muir (10:00) Matt Robinson, organiser of the Northern Show featured in Episode 324 (17:45) James Gambrill is organiser of The London Snow Show on 16 and 17 October (19:45) Chemmy on the London Show (23:45) Katja Gaskell will be guest hosting The Ski Podcast in November (26:30) Chemmy on the future of Ski Sunday (29:00) What is LifePass? (30:30) The inspiration behind LifePass (31:45) La Thuile has been the testing ground (32:45) How does LifePass work in practice? (33:45) Using live location (37:15) The La Thuile ski patrol have responded to the SOS button (39:00) Cervinia will offer LifePass this winter (39:30) Sophie works at GB Snowsport as a Content and Communications Officer (43:00) She won an award for her final year project – a documentary called ‘The Slope to Recovery’ (45:00) Sophie is a FIS qualified snowboard judge (47:30) Listen to Iain’s interview with Ed Leigh about how judges score (49:15) Feedback I love getting feedback from listeners. You can let us know what you thought by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or you can drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Nicholas: "I thought Richard Lett's insights into the commune election process in Episode 320 were fascinating" Paul Bond: "The top ski podcast. Iain has a great mix for all snow heads." Colin Tierney: "It was great to hear from Mark Smith (Man in Seat 61) about train travel in Episode 328" Dan Morgan: “Just wanted to say how much I’m enjoying the latest episodes. You're doing a great job getting us all excited for the season!" You can catch up with over 330 episodes of The Ski Podcast at theskipodcast.com - have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest. If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help the podcast, there are three things you can do: Follow us, or subscribe, so you never miss an episode Give us a review on Apple Podcasts or leave a comment on Spotify Save yourself some money on your ski hire by using the code ‘SKIPODCAST27’ when you book at intersportrent.com. You’ll get a guaranteed additional discount, or simply take this link for your discount to be automatically applied.

  • October 2 · 1 hr 8 min

    329: The Best Ski Boots of 2027 | Alpine - Freeride

    We review the Best Ski Boots for the 2027 winter season, covering the alpine ski boots and best freeride and touring hybrid ski boots. Host Iain Martin was joined by The Ski Podcast’s equipment expert Al Morgan and Frazer Shand from Profeet in London. Les 2 Alpes sponsors The Ski Podcast – this winter we will be finding out more about the resort’s long seven-month ski season, the great activities on offer there in summer, and some of the people who live and work there and make Les 2 Alpes such a fantastic destination. This special equipment episode has been made possible by the Profeet Ski Boot Lab. Go to www.theskipodcast.com or our YouTube channel to see graphics of all these ski boots SHOW NOTES Iain and Al will be at the London Snow Show in October (2:15) Ski Boot definitions and terms: Shell (4:20) Last (5:00) Mondopoint (6:15) Flex (7:30) Liner (10:00) BOA (12:00) Powerstrap (18:15) Walk mode and Grip Walk (20:00) Sustainability (25:00) How can you recycle ski boots? (27:00) Function, Fit and Footbeds (29:00) Find out about the fitting process at the Profeet Ski Boot Lab (30:00) Customisation (32:30) Custom insoles (33:30) Get your free tickets to the London Snow Show (1:05:15) THE BEST SKI BOOTS OF 2027 (36:00) Piste and All-Mountain Ski Boots (36:15) Atomic Nexus 105 BOA W / 120 BOA(37:30) £540 / £550 SIZES (MP): 22.0 – 27.5 / 24.0 - 31.5 VOLUME: High LAST (mm): 101 FLEX: 105 / 120 WEIGHT (per boot): 1,999g (26.5MP) / 1,996g (26.5MP) “The fit and hold is impressive, but the thing that really surprised us was just how well they ski. A superb choice if convenience is high on your boot buying agenda.” Nordica Promachine 3 95 W / 130 GW(41:30) £415/ £590 ALPINE SIZES (MP): 22.0 - 27.5 / 22.0 - 30.5 WALK MODE: N VOLUME: Low LAST (mm): 98 FLEX: 95 / 130 WEIGHT (per boot): 1,680g (24.5MP) / 1,870g (26.5MP) “Superbly comfortable performance boots. The liner is excellent and Al loves the hold from the medium-firm foam. The snug fit wraps the foot naturally and securely, without excessive pressure.” Salomon S/Pro Alpha C BOA 95 W / 130(45:00) £480 / £640 SIZES (MP): 22.0 - 27.5 / 24.0 - 30.5 VOLUME: Low LAST (mm): 98 FLEX: 95 / 130 WEIGHT (per boot): 1,664g / 1,940g (no stated size) “We could feel the difference this new design makes. It’s like power steering for your feet, enabling easier ski tip engagement and control into the turn.” K2 Anthem 105 Zonal BOA / Recon 120 Zonal BOA(49:30) £550 ALPINE SIZES (MP): 21.0 – 26.5 / 24.0 - 30.5 WALK MODE: N VOLUME: Medium LAST (mm): 97 – 100 FLEX: 105 / 120 WEIGHT (per boot): 1,885g (23.5MP) / 2,210g (27.5MP) “Superb wrap and hold using BOA, combined with fully heat-mouldable make these a great choice.” The Best Freeride Ski Boots of 2027 (52:45) Lange Code 95 BOA MV GW / 130 BOA LV GW(53:30) £565 / £715 FREERIDE SIZES (MP): 22.0 – 27.5 / 24.0 – 29.5 WALK MODE: Y, 54° ROM VOLUME: Medium / Low LAST (mm): 100 / 97 FLEX: 95 / 130 WEIGHT (per boot): 1,605g / 1,910g (no stated size) “More room inside than expected: akin to a medium volume fit, meaning I had to crank the BOA tight to get the snugness I like. Despite this, I love how this boot reacts, thanks to the Dual Core construction, and the ROM in tour mode is plenty for most needs.” Tecnica Zero G Decoy 115 W GW / 130 GW(57:00) £640 / £685 FREERIDE SIZES (MP): 22.0 – 27.5 / 24.0 – 30.5 WALK MODE: Y, 65° ROM VOLUME: Medium LAST (mm): 99 FLEX: 115 / 130 WEIGHT (per boot): 1,510g (24.5MP) / 1,680g (26.5MP) “Balances uphill efficiency and downhill ski performance really nicely. The comfortable fit made longer touring days way more manageable, with a supporting, confidence inspiring time on the ski down.” Armada AR One AF 110 MV / 130 MV(1:02:00) £580 / £700 FREERIDE SIZES (MP): 23.0 - 29.5 / 24.0 - 29.5 WALK MODE: Y, 52° ROM VOLUME: Medium LAST (mm): 100 FLEX: 110 / 130 WEIGHT (per boot): 2,120g / 2,125g (no stated size) “Superb skiing performance and features of the top-end AR One, including PU shell, shock absorbing boot board, elasticated claw power strap, heat mouldable tech, and the instep buckle to lock you back into the heel.” Feedback You can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or you can drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Louise Cotter: “Fascinating podcast on the best skis. I’m starting to feel very excited that the ski season is approaching!” Colin Tierney: "You can tell ski season is approaching when you hear Al’s voice on the show!" You can catch up with over 300 episodes at theskipodcast.com – just search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest. If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help the podcast, there are three things you can do: Follow us, or subscribe, so you never miss an episode Give us a review on Apple Podcasts or leave a comment on Spotify Save yourself some money on your ski hire by using the code ‘SKIPODCAST27’ when you book at intersportrent.com. You’ll get a guaranteed additional discount, or simply take this link for your discount to be automatically applied.

  • September 25 · 53 min

    328: The New Swiss/Italian Night Train, Clothing Repair & SIGB’s Grassroots Grant

    We find out about a new overnight train service to Switzerland and Italy, as well as a new campaign to promote the repair of snowsports clothing, rather than replacement. We also hear about a new initiative to bring newcomers into the sport, plus we have the latest updates from Australia and NZ and news of award recognition for The Ski Podcast. Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Heather Davies from the Re-Action Collective and Mark Smith (‘The Man in Seat 61’), the UK’s leading train travel expert. ------------ Les 2 Alpes sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means this winter we will be finding out more about the resort’s long seven-month ski season, the great activities on offer there in summer, and some of the people who live and work there and make Les 2 Alpes such a fantastic destination. ------------ SHOW NOTES Heather was last on the show in Episode 255 (1:15) Mark Smith was previously on the show in Episode 231 (2:00) Guy Beatson reported from Whakapapa in NZ (4:15) Miss Snowitall, Rachael Oakes-Ash, was at the Shaun White Snow League in Cardrona, NZ (5:45) The Ski Podcast is a finalist in the ‘Best Broadcast Programme’ category for the 2026 Travel Media Awards and also a finalist in the ‘Best Travel & Adventure’ category at the Independent Podcast Awards (10:15) Tord Nilson from Snowsport Industries of GB discusses the ‘Grassroots Growth Grant’ (11:00) Listen to Iain’s interview with the ‘Man in Seat 61’ in Episode 231 (17:15) What does seat61.com cover? (17:45) Mark recently travelled on the inaugural service by European Sleeper, linking Brussels and Milan (19:00) Route and timings (19:30) Taking the classic Gotthard Tunnel (21:45) Overnight sleeping options & costs (23:00) What is a couchette? (25:00) Why the train doesn’t stop in Zurich (29:45) All of the details of the new service are available at seat61.com Andermatt is the best connection - just 15 minutes from Göschenen (30:30) The value of an Interrail pass (31:00) Will we see direct trains from the UK to Switzerland or competitors to Eurostar? (33:30) Find out more about the Re-Action Collective in Episode 255 (38:15) Heather’s White Paper calls for outdoor brands to embrace decentralised repair (39:45) Measures could include subsidised incentive schemes, VAT and business rates reductions (45:30) Many of these ideas already exist in France (45:45) Re-Action Collective is full of specialists in repair (47:15) Listen to Iain’s interview with ‘Repair Claire’ at Montane (48:00) We featured Arcteryx in Episode 218 (48:15) How to extend the life of your ski kit (48:30) Watch Iain and Al discuss ‘The Best Skis for 2027’ (53:00) Feedback I love getting feedback from listeners. You can let us know what you thought by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or you can drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Fiona: “The award nomination is Well deserved. I always love listening to your episodes!” HenrySkier: “This podcast is ALWAYS a good listen. Looking to indulging and listening later today.” You can catch up with all 328 episodes of The Ski Podcast at theskipodcast.com - have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest. If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help the podcast, there are three things you can do: Follow us, or subscribe, so you never miss an episode Give us a review on Apple Podcasts or leave a comment on Spotify Save yourself some money on your ski hire by using the code ‘SKIPODCAST27’ when you book at intersportrent.com. You’ll get a guaranteed additional discount, or simply take this link for your discount to be automatically applied.

  • September 18 · 1 hr 9 min

    327: The Best Skis of 2027 | Piste - All Mountain - Freeride

    We review the Best Skis for the new 2027 winter season, covering the best piste skis, best all mountain skis and freeride skis. Host Iain Martin was joined by The Ski Podcast’s equipment expert Al Morgan and Frazer Shand from Profeet Ski Boot Lab. Les 2 Alpes sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means this winter we will be finding out more about the resort’s long seven-month ski season, the great activities on offer there in summer, and some of the people who live and work there and make Les 2 Alpes such a fantastic destination. This special equipment episode has been made possible by the Profeet Ski Boot Lab. Go to www.theskipodcast.com or our YouTube channel to see graphics of all of these skis. SHOW NOTES Iain and Al will be at the London Snow Show in October (2:15) Listen to Iain’s interview with Tim Wall (4:00) Best Skis of 2027 means the best skis of winter 2026/27 (4:30) What are the different types of skis (6:00) What is a ‘rocker? (8:15) Listen to Iain’s Zag Skis special episode (10:45) What is meant by ‘side cut’? (12:00) How long should your skis be? (15:15) Is sustainability still important in ski production? (19:45) Listen to Iain’s interview with Jono from Ronin Skis (21:45) When and where did testing take place? (24:00) SIGB is the Snowsport Industries of Great Britain (24:30) Testing women’s skis (29:15) How much do bindings cost? (31:45) The Best Piste Skis – reviews (33:30) Profeet will be stocking the Atomic Volant 7000 this winter (38:00) The Best All Mountain Skis – reviews (42:00) Zag Mata (44:00) The Best Freeride Skis – reviews (54:45) Listen to Iain’s interview with Bode Miller (49:45) Free tickets to the London Snow Show (1:03:30) Snowblades – good or bad? (1:05:00) REVIEWS: THE BEST PISTE SKIS OF WINTER 2027 Salomon S/Max No 12 (35:00) £690 including bindings Lengths: 150, 155, 160, 165, 170cm Radius: 14.0m @ 160cm Dimensions: 120-72-105mm “A smooth ski, and a lot of fun and will be great choice for intermediates as well as advanced-level skiers.” Rossignol Hero MT TI C.A.M. (37:00) £700 including the NX bindings Lengths: 154, 162, 170, 178, 184cm Radius: 14.0m @ 170cm Dimensions: 128-73-111mm “I was gobsmacked as to how good it is. Great in shorts and longs, with a sublimely smooth and damped ride. Easy to initiate turns, yet you can go full guns blazing.” REVIEWS: THE BEST ALL MOUNTAIN SKIS OF WINTER 2027 Faction Dancer 89 Ti (45:15) £629 without bindings Lengths: 153, 159, 166, 173, 179, 185cm Radius: 18.0m @ 179cm Dimensions: 126-89-115mm “For an advanced skier, this is phenomenal. It provides confident purchase through the edge, with plenty of stability when skiing hard and the terrain is skied out.” Armada AntiMatter 92 W (47:00) £600 without bindings Lengths: 156, 164, 172cm Radius: 16.5m @ 164cm Dimensions: 130-92-116mm “A ski that can comfortably handle pretty much any conditions thrown at it.” K2 Mindbender 88 (50:150) £595 without bindings Lengths: 164, 170, 176, 182cm Radius: 17.0m @ 182cmm Dimensions: 129-88-113mm “Ridiculously smooth and doesn’t chatter or try to lay flat. Truly fabulous, although the graphic won’t be to everyone’s taste.” REVIEWS: THE BEST FREERIDE SKIS OF WINTER 2027 Dynastar M-Pro 98 W (55:15) £625 without bindings Lengths: 154, 162, 170, 178cm Radius: 16.0m @ 170cm Dimensions: 133-99-123mm “Just one of those skis that felt addictive to ski and constantly made you want another run. Who wouldn’t want that ski?” Blizzard Canvas 100 (58:00) £560 without bindings Lengths: 162, 168, 174, 180, 186cm Radius: 17.5m @ 180cm Dimensions: 132-100-120mm “I love this ski. Despite the lack of metal, it is damp, provides a smooth flex and ride, and has enough power for giving it some beans. It’s also easy to use at lower speeds and surprisingly nimble in tighter terrain.” FEEDBACK (1:04:00) You can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or you can drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Louise Cotter: “Episode 325 was a story of pure determination and fabulous listen!” Yousef: “Top ski podcast that gives you a smell of the mountains. I’ve been enjoying listening to it this summer and looking forward to the winter.” Max Martin: "Great snow sports news. Just the best ski and snow sports podcast going. Always listen to these and learn something new. Interviews and reports from all over the world." anon: “I've listened to every podcast now and enjoyed them all. Looking forward to the driving to the Alps which you mentioned, as it will be my first time driving there with an EV.” There are 327 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com and search around the tags and categories: you’re bound to find something of interest. If you enjoyed this episode and would like to help the podcast, there are three things you can do: Follow us, or subscribe, so you never miss an episode Give us a review on Apple Podcasts or leave a comment on Spotify Save yourself some money on your ski hire by using the code ‘SKIPODCAST27’ when you book at intersportrent.com. You’ll get a guaranteed additional discount, or simply take this link for your discount to be automatically applied.

  • September 11 · 48 min

    326: The end of Ski Sunday, Europe’s Indoor Snow Centres & Ski Club of Great Britain

    Today we discuss the BBC’s cancellation of ‘Ski Sunday’, find out SnowWorld’s network of European indoor snow centres and discover more about one of the important institutions of UK skiing: the Ski Club of Great Britain. Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Katy Ellis, General Manager at the Ski Club of Great Britain and Wim Hubrechtson, CEO of SnowWorld, and down the line by Chemmy Alcott and Freddy, Zak and Luca Carrick-Smith. ——— Les 2 Alpes sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means this winter we will be finding out more about the resort’s long seven-month ski season, the great activities on offer there in summer, and some of the people who live and work there and make Les 2 Alpes such a fantastic destination. ——— SHOW NOTES Les 2 Alpes is going to be title sponsor of The Ski Podcast this winter (0:30) Iain and Katy were at the industry event ‘Ski Launch’ (1:30) The BBC announced that they are not renewing ‘Ski Sunday’ (6:15) Chemmy Alcott spoke with Iain about how she found out and her plans are now (7:45) The Ski Podcast sponsors Zak, Freddy and Luca Carrick Smith (13:30) They recently scored a unique family clean sweep at the NZ National Champs (13:45) Zak Carrick Smith will be at the London Snow Show this year (15:45) Secure your free tickets for the London Snow Show here (16:00) Use this link ‘SSLSATPOD100OFF‘ for free Saturday entry to the London Snow Show Use this link ‘SSLSUNPOD100OFF‘ for free Sunday entry to the London Snow Show Iain founded Natives in 1999 (18:30) Katy’s first job after ski seasons was with the Ski Club (19:30) She then moved on to Ski Solutions (21:00) Katy became ‘Head of Holidays’ at the Ski Club in 2022 (22:00) This year in 2026, she became General Manager (23:00) The Ski Club’s Freshtracks programme covers over 60 resorts (23:30) Ski Club reps (25:00) In Episode 212, Lou Cameron Hall shared her experience of doing the reps course (28:30) SnowWorld operates in 11 sites across 5 countries (33:00) There are 2.2m Dutch and Belgian skiers (36:00) Laadgraaf is 650m long (39:30) The Snow Centre merged with SnowWorld (39:00) The SnowWorld slopes are very popular with race teams in summer (40:30) SnowWorld’s sustainability goals (42:15) EV slope groomers (45:00) Feedback You can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or you can drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Olek Pitsul “Episode 324 was great! As an apprentice at Snow Camp, it was fantastic to hear about our work and impact highlighted here. Thanks for a brilliant feature, Iain!” Louise Cotter liked Episode 323: “Very insightful. For anyone even slightly interested in skiing, I highly recommend The Ski Podcast. It is highly addictive and super informative.” isaben enjoyed Episode 314 about Zag Skis: “I love ZAG - I have a pair of Slap 92's and Harfangs and can't get enough of either of them!” Ben Wharfe:” I’ve been a long-time listener to The Ski Podcast and often listen to episodes with my son James, he is 15 and just starting year 11 to complete his GCSEs.” There are now 326 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with: just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest. Save yourself some money on your ski hire by using the code ‘SKIPODCAST27’ when you book at intersportrent.com. You’ll get a guaranteed additional discount, or simply take this link for your discount to be automatically applied.

  • September 4 · 23 min

    325: Andrzej Bargiel, First Person to Ski Everest Without Oxygen

    In today’s special episode we meet Andrzej Bargiel, the first person to ski Everest without oxygen. In September 2025, Andrzej went viral, after Red Bull released footage of him summitting and then skiing down Everest – the world’s highest peak – without any extra oxygen. To put his achievement into context, around 7500 people have summited Everest, but fewer than 200 have managed to do it without supplementary oxygen – and absolutely none of them have skied back down as well. We discuss Andrzej’s journey from a tough childhood in Poland, via first skimo racing, and then high mountain adventures, to how he became the only person to ski K2 from the summit and then the only person to summit and ski Everest without supplementary oxygen. Andrzej spoke in his natives language of Polish, so in this conversation, you’ll hear his words translated by an actor. SHOW NOTES Watch the full 30-minute version of Andrzej’s historic descent (0:30) If you are really pushed for time, you could watch the one minute version Andrzej is the ninth of 11 children (2:45) Swapping table tennis bats for skis (2:45) Getting into ski touring (4:15) The ‘Hic Sunt Leones’ (‘Here are lions’) project (6:00) Learning to function with little oxygen (7:30) Attitudes to risk (8:30) Previous attempts on Everest in 2019 and 2021 Why September? (11:00) Reaching the summit (14:00) Negotiating the Khumbu icefall (16:45) Equipment for Everest (18:30) Everest, K2 and Nanga Parbat - which was the hardest to climb and the hardest to ski? (19:45) FEEDBACK You can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or you can drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp, where I release exclusive material ahead of each episode there. Look in the Show Notes for those links. Matt Hayes: “Thank you for the content over the summer, some truly inspiring interviews. Also, for the free ticket for the snow show. We got so much out of it last year and booked our hotel as soon as the dates came out, so the free ticket certainly helps.” Colin Tierney: “Episode 323 was very interesting: disabled skiers impress me so much.” Jake Roskoe: “I really enjoyed Episode 235, when you spoke with Nancy Shiel from Big Sky Resort in Montana” There are now 325 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest to listen to. If you enjoyed this episode of The Ski Podcast (which took around 10 hours to produce!), you are welcome to buy me a coffee too at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast Save yourself some money on your ski hire by using the code ‘SKIPODCAST27’ when you book at intersportrent.com. You’ll get a guaranteed additional discount, or simply take this link for your discount to be automatically applied.

  • August 28 · 35 min

    324: Snowcamp’s Impact Retreat, Northern Snow Show & Australia/NZ Snow Updates

    We learn how a new retreat in Chamonix is creating opportunities for inner city young people, find out what’s going on at this year’s Northern Snow Show and we have the latest snow news from Australia and New Zealand. Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Laura Marriot-Clarke, founder of the Chamonix company, Girl Powder Mountain Retreats and Morv Bett, Head of Snowsports and Futures at Snow Camp, and down the line by Matt Robinson, Head of Events at Snow Centre Manchester, Rachael Oakes-Ash from snowsbest.com and Guy Beatson in Whakapapa, NZ. SHOW NOTES Find out more about the AJ Bell Three Valley Rally (3:30) Rachael Oakes-Ash from snowsbest.com is the ski expert on Australia & New Zealand (3:45) Guy Beatson is based at Whakapapa in New Zealand (6:00) Episode 312 is a special interview with Rachael (7:30) Iain spoke with Matt Robinson about the Northern Snow Show (7:45) Book a Premium Ticket for the show (10:00) The London Snow Show takes place at Olympia on 17 and 18 October (12:45) Take this link for your FREE Saturday tickets to the London Snow Show Take this link for your FREE Sunday tickets to the London Snow Show Snow Camp featured on the podcast most recently in Episode 249 (14:00) Iain fundraised for Snow Camp in 2025, visiting all five of the UK’s indoor snow centres in a single day (14:15) Amirra Blackwood discussed her journey in Episode 249, working for Ellis Brigham and SCGB (18:00) Girl Powder Mountain Retreats are based in Chamonix (20:00) The Snow Camp ‘Impact Retreat’ in Chamonix (24:45) Dates and Costs of the ‘Impact Retreat’ and how to book (30:00) Snowcamp was included in the list of Top SME Apprenticeship Employers in the country (31:30) Snowheads is a great online snowsports community (33:00) Feedback You can let us know your feedback by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or send an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp, where we release exclusive material ahead of each episode there. Layne: “Just listened to Episode 322 - interesting as always” russ e: “Really enjoyed the interview with Stu Brass. I went on a few of trips with the chaps from the Snowboarding forum from which SCUK was born.” ster: “I must take exception with Rob in Episode 318 who stated that the ‘main resort’ in the Aosta valley is Courmayeur” There are now 324 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest.

  • August 14 · 43 min

    323: Disability Snowsport, Team Carrick-Smith Update & Tartiflette v. Fondue

    We find out about the increasing options available for disabled skiers and snowboarders, plus we look at the results of a new survey full of revelations, including the increasing role of AI in choosing holidays and some controversial views on fondue! We also have a special update from New Zealand from Team Carrick Smith and news on summer in La Plagne. Iain was joined in the studio by Virginia Anderson, CEO at Disability Snowsport UK and Simon McIntyre, Managing Director at Iglu Ski. SHOW NOTES Simon was last on the show in Episode 217 (1:00) Iain skied the last day of the season in Chamonix in May (3:00) The Ski Podcast sponsors Zak, Freddy and Luca Carrick Smith (3:30) They are currently based in Roundhill in New Zealand The summer ski areas in both Zermatt and Saas Fee have closed (5:50) The ice tunnel that leads from the Aiguille du Midi out to the arete closed last week Iain reported from Les Arcs in summer in Episode 254 (7:00) Jen runs the website ‘That’s La Plagne’ (7:15) Barriers to skiing for disabled people (12:30) The new DSUK Hub at The Snow Centre Manchester (14:00) Recruiting and training adaptive instructors (15:00) Listen to Iain’s interview with paraplegic snow groomer Antoine Motillon in Episode 15 (18:30) What does a genuinely accessible ski resort look like? (20:00) What can resorts do to make a difference (21:30) Standout resorts doing a good job (22:45) In Episode 303, Alice Sainsbury from ‘un/para/ld’ on improving outdoor clothing for disabled people (25:00) Iglu helps raise funds for DSUK (27:00) Read the Iglu Ski Survey (30:30) 5% go long-haul (so USA, Canada, Japan) with most in Europe (31:30) There’s been a big jump in people using AI to research ski holidays (32:30) 20% of people book ‘at the last minute’ (35:00) 7% see their carbon footprint as being the most important factor in choosing how they travel (36:00) Find out more about train travel at skiflightfree.orgois (37:00) Apres-ski - clubbing at altitude v a hot tub and a sunny terrace (38:30) Toffee vodka v. Aperol spritz v. vin chaud v. beer v. wine (39:30) Tartiflette beats fondue (41:00) Feedback You can let us know what you’ve enjoyed this week or ideas for future features by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or you can drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Ed Hopkins: “Such a good idea” [Soberski in Episode 322] Colin Tierney: “Maybe it’s due to the age I started skiing but I never drink on a skiing holiday. I’d rather be safe on my skis as I would be with driving, so no alcohol the night before.” Louise Cotter: "The knowledge I am gaining for listening to your podcast is phenomenal. I absolutely love Benjamin Coombes concept of soberski - this holiday sounds incredible. Well done on sharing his journey.” If you do enjoy the podcast, you are welcome to buy me a coffee too at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast There are now 323 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest.

  • July 31 · 43 min

    322: Alcohol-Free Ski Holidays, Villards de Lans in Vercors & OZ/NZ Snow Reports

    We find out about Villards de Lans in the Vercors area of France and discuss alcohol-free ski holidays in Méribel. We also have ski show news and snow reports from Australia, New Zealand and Chile. Host Iain Martin was joined by freelance journalist Katja Gaskell and Soberski founder Ben Coombes. SHOW NOTES Katja was last on the podcast in Episode 308 discussing Sundance Resort (0:45) Rachael Oakes-Ash from snowsbest.com is the ski expert on Australia & New Zealand (4:00) Guy Beatson is based at Whakapapa in New Zealand (9:00) Episode 312 is a special interview with Rachael (10:30) Portillo has had epic snowfall (10:45) Bartek Tyrpa from the pro-team at Carv reported from Valle Nevado in Chile (11:00) The Northern Snow Show takes place 03-04 October at The Snow Centre Manchester (12:30) Where is the Vercors? (13:30) The main ski area is Villards de Lans / Correncon en Vercors (14:45) Tony Parker is VERY famous in France It’s excellent for cross country skiing (20:00) Le Clarient is a self-sufficient restaurant (22:00) Soberski offers alcohol free ski holidays (24:00) Ben on why he quit alcohol (25:45) Why are skiing and drinking are so closely linked? (27:30) Starting Soberski (29:15) Soberski’s 2027 trip details (34:00) Katja reported on ice swimming in Samoens in Episode 166 (34:30) The increase in alcohol-free options in bars (39:30) Feedback If you enjoyed this episode, or if you have any comments, please let me know. You can do that by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Louise Cotter: “The night train ride [Episode 320] sounds like a lot of fun: my travel wish list is getting out of control thanks to The Ski Podcast.” Fiona Harvey-Jordan: “Fantastic episode as always!” There are now 322 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with at www.theskipodcast.com – have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest to listen to. If you do enjoy the podcast and you want to help out you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast

  • July 24 · 12 min

    321: Chamonix Stories #6 | Sam Haddad: “I looked down and there was just the abyss"

    In the sixth of our ‘Chamonix Stories’, we find out what it’s like to fall into a crevasse on the Vallée Blanche (don’t worry, this story has a happy ending!) Host Iain Martin speaks with freelance journalist Sam Haddad, about her first descent of the famous off-piste route – the Vallée Blanche. SHOW NOTES Listen to our special episode about Chamonix (0:30) Sam Haddad runs the Substack ‘Climate and Board Sports’ Sam was last on the podcast in Episode 251 (1:00) She spent a season in Chamonix in 2000 (2:00) She was on the Envers du Plan route (2:15) Jamie and the Magic Torch (3:15) Falling in to the crevasse (4:45) Being found in the crevasse (6:00) Being lifted out (6:30) Having to keep snowboarding (7:30) Getting a helicopter back to resort (9:00) Doing the Vallée Blanche again (9:45) FEEDBACK If you enjoyed this episode you can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Simon Burgess: “Really enjoyed Episode 319 about Ronin Skis. It’s nice to know there are manufacturers aiming for longevity not just another sale.” Colin Tierney: “I’m off to Landgraaf in November to enjoy the longer slope indoors and Pila in March…have you got access to my ski calendar?" There are now 321 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com and have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find an episode of interest to listen to. If you did enjoy this episode and you’d like to support the podcast, then you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast

  • July 17 · 44 min

    320: Méribel Elections, Les 2 Alpes summer skiing and the Travelski Night Train

    We find out how a Brit got elected onto the Méribel town council, what summer skiing in Les 2 Alpes is like, and look at the Travelski night train to the Alps. We also have snow reports from Australia and New Zealand and the latest news. Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Alex Armand from Tip Top Ski Coaching and Richard Lett from Apres Ski Bands. SHOW NOTES Rich spoke about apres-ski bands in the Alps in Episode 86 In Episode 180 he shared his insights into how to find a ski job post-Brexit Rachael Oakes-Ash from snowsbest.com is the ski expert on Australia & New Zealand (3:30) Episode 312 is a special interview with Rachael Guy Beatson is based at Whakapapa in New Zealand (5:30) Freeride Skiing will be included in the 2030 Olympics (6:30) Check out the Freeride World Tour channel on YouTube Cody Bramwell switched to the UK in 2021: "To be an Olympian would be the craziest dream ever" (7:30) British Olympians at Milan-Cortina are eligible for a €10000 grant from the IOC (8:30) Qualifying as an instructor (9:30) Summer skiing in Les 2 Alpes (13:00) Cycling around Mont Ventoux with Tip Top Bike Tours (17:00) Skiing on Mont Ventoux (17:30) Daniel Elkan runs the Snowcarbon website (19:00) Find out more about the Travelski Express night train Rich was one of the two first Brits to be elected to the Meribel council (28:00) Rich previously worked for Bladon Lines and the Brown Rock group (29:30) Rich runs Apres Ski Bands (30:45) Rich’s ‘commune’ is Méribel Les Allues (32:30) Responsibilities of the ‘commune’ (32:45) The new mayor of Méribel is Bernard Front (34:00) Getting on the mayoral ticket (34:30) ‘Agissons ensemble, transformons demain’: ‘Act together, transform tomorrow’ (35:00) In Episode 190 we covered the history of Méribel with David Lindsey (40:45) Feedback If you enjoyed this episode, or if you have any comments, please let me know. You can do that by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Colin Tierney: “Great to hear from David Webster in Episode 317. I’ve used his videos before for Chamonix research.” Robbie Milne: “I went to Aosta and skied in Pila at Christmas and New Year. It’s underrated - a great little resort, lovely runs and it’s great to see more investment going in there.” If you do enjoy the podcast and you want to help out you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast Louise Cotter: “Binge listening to past episodes of The Ski Podcast has been my favourite way to cool down during the UK heatwave. Jonno from Ronin Skis’ commitment to sustainability is exceptionally impressive!” There are now 320 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with at www.theskipodcast.com – have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest to listen to.

  • July 10 · 18 min

    319: Chamonix Stories #5 | Ronin Skis

    In the fifth in our series of ‘Chamonix Stories’, we Jonno Jacobs, founder of Ronin Skis – ‘exceptional lightweight touring and freeride skis for those who chart their own path’. Ronin is a passion project for Jonno: every ski is handmade and custom built for its owner, with a lot of thought put into making the skis as sustainable as possible. SHOW NOTES Using a fridge to make a pair of skis (3:00) Listen to Iain’s interview with Tom Greenall on how he became a pisteur (4:00) Where does the Ronin name come from? (4:15) The first order of Ronin Skis (6:00) Jono makes about 75 pairs per year (7:00) Approach to sustainability (7:30) Construction of Ronin Skis (9:45) Flax, not fibreglass (11:30) Learning the art of making skis (13:15) Range and costs (15:00) FEEDBACK If you enjoyed this episode, or if you have any comments, please let me know. You can do that by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp - I release exclusive material ahead of each episode there. Erik Jan Schutte: “I looked up OAK [Episode 316] and it looks cool. Keep up the good work.” Louise Cotter: “Episode 318 was fabulous. Chemmy Alcott is an inspiration for anybody to listen to.” There are now 319 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com and have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find an episode of interest to listen to. If you did enjoy this episode and you’d like to support the podcast, then you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast

  • July 3 · 50 min

    318: Chemmy Alcott on Lindsey Vonn & Dave Ryding, Pila in Italy & Oz/NZ Snow Reports

    Today we go behind the scenes of the BBC’s Olympics coverage with Chemmy Alcott, hearing what it was like to be on location for Lindsey Vonn's awful accident, as well as Dave Ryding's final race, plus we find out about the ski resort of Pila in Italy. We also have the latest from the start of the season Down Under in Australia and New Zealand and updates from GB Snowsport’s new generation of alpine racers, Luca, Zak and Freddy Carrick Smith. Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by four-time Winter Olympian and BBC Ski Sunday presenter, Chemmy Alcott, as well as freelance journalist, Rob Rees. SHOW NOTES Rob was last on the show in in Episode 262 discussing the Skiwelt in Austria (2:00) Rachael Oakes-Ash runs the website snowsbest.com and the expert on Australia and New Zealand skiing (5:00) There has been fresh snow in Australia on Friday 03 July (5:30) Episode 312 is a special interview with Rachael (7:30) Guy Beatson is based in Whakapapa, NZ (8:00) Alex Irwin from the YouTube channel 150 Days of Winter skied last week in Tignes (10:00) Kendra Scurfield reports from Sunshine Village in Canada (12:00) “Too many of us life in our comfort zones” (13:45) Chemmy on Mia Brookes (14:15) Chemmy on Lindsey Vonn and her awful accident (16:30) Will Vonn ever ski again, or even race again? (23:15) Watching GB Snowsport win their first Gold medal (24:30) Dave Ryding’s last race…with champagne on ice (25:45) Dave gatecrashing Chemmy’s piece to camera? (26:15) Listen to Iain’s interview with Dave Ryding in Episode 199 (27:00) Recent FIS elections: Johan Eliasch beaten by Alexander Ospelt (27:15) GB Snowsports’ Vicky Gosling election to the FIS council (28:45) Luca Carrick-Smith (29:45) Freddy Carrick-Smith (31:45) Chemmy on what Luca, Zak and Freddy need to do to take it to the next level (32:45) In Episode 311, Katie Bamber discussed Champoluc in the Aosta Valley (35:15) Where is Pila and Aosta? (35:30) Staying in Aosta (36:30) Aosta’s Roman history (37:30) Staying in Pila (39:00) Pila’s new lift (40:15) Who is Pila suitable for? (42:15) Other resorts in the Aosta Valley (43:00) Which were the first rocker skis? (48:15) Feedback (47:00) You can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – our handle is @theskipodcast – or drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Alastair Yule: "Loved listening to Victoria in Episode 309. Gotta have her back with her daughter Mila who has qualified for the Freeride World Tour" Colin Tierney: "Episode 314 about Zag Skis was really interesting.” Neil Landon: "Thoroughly enjoying your podcasts, especially Episode 313 on Chamonix. It’s nearly 40 years since I skied there and it brings back fond memories." There are now 318 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up. If you’d like to keep your snow fix going over the summer, then just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around and you’re bound to find something you’ll find something you’ll enjoy listening to. If you do enjoy the podcast and you want to help out you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast

  • June 30 · 1 min

    Introducing: The Ski Podcast

    Love snowsports? Then The Ski Podcast is just for you... In almost ten years and over 300 episodes, we have covered skiing on all seven continents, thanks to guests joining host, Iain Martin, to discuss everything from easily accessible family resorts to one-off bucket list treats. So, if you’d like to know more about world of snowsports, going behind the scenes with experts from across the world, why not join us and subscribe now. And even better, you don’t even have to wait until our next episode, just go to theskipodcast.com where you can catch up with over 300 episodes today.

  • June 26 · 29 min

    317: Chamonix Stories #4 | David Webster (aka 'ChamonixSkiBum')

    In the third in our series of ‘Chamonix Stories’, we meet David Webster, better known on YouTube as “ChamonixSkiBum”. David has almost 10,000 subscribers and 1.7 million views on his channel, where he publishes snow reports, reports on his high mountain skiing and more Chamonix valley adventures. 📸 @olajaniak SHOW NOTES First ski experiences (2:30) Skiing at Gloucester Dry Slope (3:00) Ski seasons in Courchevel (4:30) David has a PHD in Geology (5:15) Favourite runs in Les 3 Vallées (7:00) Moving to Chamonix (8:00) Background in mountaineering (8:30) Skiing with a guide? (10:00) Putting on skis in steep terrain (10:45) The Jager couloir (12:00) Col de Plan, North Face of the Aiguille du Midi (12:30) Cunningham Couloir / Passarelle Couloir (14:00) ‘By Chamonix standards’ (14:45) Glenn Plake skis the Passarelle Couloir in ‘Blizzard of Aaahs’ (15:00) The Vallee Blanche & the Mer de Glace (15:00) The danger of crevasses (18:00) Deciding to become a 'YouTuber' (18:45) Snow reports (22:30) Cameras used (23:00) 360 view of going down the arete at the Aiguille du Midi (25:00) Wild swimming and cycling (25:45) Wearing shorts for the Vallee Blanche (26:00) “It’s like Disneyland for adults” (27:15) FEEDBACK If you enjoyed this episode, or if you have any comments, please let me know. You can do that by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. James Rice: "Love the podcast. It's absolutely indispensable for me and a ‘must listen’ every week." Louise Cotter: “I am really enjoying the Chamonix series. The Oak app is awesome.” Max Martin: "High quality and high interest on all things skiing. Just listened to the Chamonix special. Well worth a subscribe." There are now 317 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com and have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find an episode of interest to listen to. If you did enjoy this episode and you’d like to support the podcast, then you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast

  • June 19 · 16 min

    316: Chamonix Stories #3 | Oak (“Tinder for the Mountains”)

    In the third in our series of ‘Chamonix Stories’, we meet Emil Wittrup Præstbrogaard, founder of the Oak App. Oak was launched in 2024 to bring together the mountain community, including skiers, climbers, trail runners, mountaineers and more. SHOW NOTES What is Oak? (2:00) Like ‘Tinder for the Mountains’ (3:15) Emil’s background (4:00) Why Emil started the Oak app (7:00) Going live in December 2023 (9:00) Features within the app (10:30) Making booking guides easier (11:00) The LinkedIn for mountain people (12:30) Why ‘Oak’? (13:30) FEEDBACK If you enjoyed this episode, or if you have any comments, please let me know. You can do that by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. We’re also on WhatsApp. Nicky Webber: "I really enjoyed listening to Episode 313. Your love of Chamonix is evident." Erin Flynn: "Episode 314 was a great listen! Loved testing Zag skis at the ski test!" Judy Swens:“I’m spending part of my time off this July in Chamonix and loved your podcast episode about it.” There are now 316 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with at www.theskipodcast.com – have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest to listen to. If you enjoyed this episode and you’d like to support the podcast, then you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast

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