Simplifying Skiing: Hassle Free Exploration with Alpina’s Adventurer 75
The most loved and practiced sports and activities are often those with a low bar of entry. Running, for example, is the exercise and regular excursion of choice for millions and millions of folks who enjoy staying fit and getting outside. All you need is a pair of shoes: once you step out your door, the road, trail or open field is yours to explore. But running is somewhat weather permitting, and winter running is a whole other ball game. So what’s the winter equivalent of running, that’s simple to start and almost addictive once you’re in the routine? I’d argue cross country skiing.
Skiing? With the skis, poles, boots and gear? That’s a simple, easy-to-start outing? Armed with today’s equipment and a snowy location, it sure is. Boots and skis have been getting continually more affordable and user-friendly since the days of wood-and-leather equipment and pine-pitch wax. Today, ski gear manufacturers like Alpina offer creative and diverse options for Nordic skiers of all interests—especially those with the basic desire to just step outside and explore their winter wonderland.
To this end, Alpina has introduced the entry level Adventurer line, designed with accessible ski outings in mind. Taking a cue from the cross country ski boots of those wood-and-leather days, the Adventurer 75 boots features a rubberized outsole with a tongue and heel that lock into the accompanying three-pin binding—rather than the more common bar-and-latch design. This style binding allows for a more backcountry-esque connection between boot and ski, with robust side-to-side stability thanks to that wide tongue.
Atop this rugged sole sits the thinsulate-lined anatomic footbed, which will subtly mold to your foot without losing its long-lasting integrity. The whole enclosure is capped by a retro, straightforward outer lace that eliminates any of the complications of the more tech-heavy racing boots. Not only does this general lack of frills make the gearing-up process a breeze for beginning and advanced skiers alike, it allows Alpina to keep costs low. The Adventure 75 boot and the Touring 75 binding together cost less than $100.
You could pair this boot-binding setup with your favorite pair of wide, beater skis or yard sale finds, or treat yourself to a new pair out of Alpina’s Discover line. No matter the skis you choose, so long as you are comfortable trekking in them, these boots will keep your feet dry and give you maximum control across miles upon snowy miles of untraveled terrain, starting from that first step out your door or off the ski cabin’s porch. The boots can be sitting there alongside your walking ones; simply slip them on, snug up the laces and you’re off to the races (more accurately to the hills and fields). No matter your skiing experience, the Alpina Adventurers allow for hassle-free, affordable exploration from anywhere, for anyone.
