Clockwise from above: Snow-covered peaks in the Valley Titlis; Johnny Egan in Engelberg
Previous pages: Marcus Caston takes on a steep incline in Engelberg
WHAT IS FREERIDE? A snow sport that’s boomed in popularity in the last 20 years, freeride is a form of off-piste skiing and snowboarding in open terrain away from the strict confines of the groomed runs, but usually around a resort area. Unlike ski touring, which involves uphill hiking and skiing cross-country, freeride focuses on downhill. It often uses resort lifts to get uphill, with riders sometimes hiking or using ski touring skins (grippy ski covers) to cover short distances to access fresh powder or new terrain. Freeriders often have specific skis, boards, boots and bindings to allow more control over movement in varying terrain.