K2 Approach Ski

K2 Approach Skis are lightweight, rapid ascent vehicles that transport you to backcountry powder stashes in style. When you get to the top of your line, these 108cm skis are easily strapped to your backpack for downhill shredding on the snowboard you trust. They weigh just 24oz, hardly noticeable during the skin up or the ride down. And since you don't have to remove the skins or fumble to put your board back together, K2 Approach Skis make for a faster transition time when you get to the top. In other words, you get fresh tracks while your friends are fumbling to get ready. Skins are included. If you use highback bindings on your board, get the strap set-up. If you use K2 Clickers on your board, get the Clicker binding set-up.

On Sale
~~$328.95~~ $79.95

clicker ski is awesome
I saw the other reviews and have to say I had the total opposite experience with the clicker binding version. The Clicker work great, is totally bomber, and very reliable. I have at least 60 BC days on mine with no issues whatsoever. I'm totally psyched on the setup.

bindings suck
The ski and skins are good. The binding absolutely sucks. I can not believe that K2 would make a piece like this and even remotely think it is backcountry equip. Buy some snow shoe, randonee, etc...bindings for it.

Good access choice
I have the clicker version of these and they work really well. They are light weight, you can use existing skin tracks with no problem, they glide well and the transition time is as fast if not faster than Tele or AT skiers. There are a few down sides, I would not try to ski these, there is a good chance you would break your neck. They don’t work well on steep, slick skin tracks (a crampon set up on the bindings would be helpful), and you can feel them on your pack as you ride down (even though this is not a major problem). Over all they are a better way of getting into the backcountry than snowshoes IMO.

Approach ski
I just used my recently purchased clicker style K2 approach skis at Kid Mountain and Independence peak. They worked great! It definitely gave me an edge over my fellow skiers who skinned their skis for the climb. I recommend adding the heel-raiser to the bindings to provide you a better grip for steeper chutes. I hope Backcountry.com starts stocking them as well.

K2 approach system versus spitboard
I have really enjoyed the K2 approach skis that I purchased last month. I have been snowboarding for 7 years, and wanted to leave the crowds and go backcountry with my telemarking husband. Hiking uphill in boots, and snowshoes is just not cool. The split boards are clumsy and time consuming, although lighter than the approach system. I enjoy the approach system because you just step into the skies, cruise uphill with minimal learning curve, step out, throw them on your pack, step into the board and beat the skiers (who are still peeling skins), to first trax. Everyone has different opinions about boarders, but these work for me!

Training Tips

Cross training gives your body a chance to recover while still exercising. If yesterday has a hard run day up and down hills, then today's bicycle ride gives your aching knees a well deserved break.

Anaeroic threshold is when lactic acid starts to build up in your body as your muscles are not getting the oxygen they require. This threshold is typically expressed as a percentage of your VO2 max - the amount of oxygen per kilogram of weight that a person can use in converting fuel to energy. Elite athletes threshold might be as high as 90% of VO2 max.

Efficient running position allows you to run farther and faster. Keep the heel raise to a minimum, relax your upper body and hands, keep your upper body poised and quiet.

If you want to make progess in your training, join a running group. A commitment to meet on a regular basis with a group of like minded individuals will help you keep your focus.