SKI LOCAL WITH SIMON AND GELI

SKI LOCAL WITH SIMON UND GELI

Simon Wohlgenannt is a state-certified ski instructor and ski guide and has been an ORTOVOX athlete for several years. Angelika Kaufmann is one of Austria’s top freeriders and a ski guide. They both live in ski touring paradise – Simon in Montafon, Geli in Lech in the Arlberg. For much of the season, conditions in the region are ideal. But Simon also appreciates days when the weather doesn’t play its part. It’s all part of living with nature and life as a ski guide who keeps a close eye on the terrain and snowpack throughout the entire season.

“I’M NOT INTERESTED IN CHASING AFTER PERFECT SNOW, I PREFER TO LIVE IN HARMONY WITH NATURE AND THE CONDITIONS.”
(SIMON WOHLGENANNT)

Ortovox tour tips

Ski tour on the Grosser Druseturm

SIMON’S 5 TIPS FOR THE PERFECT POWDER DAY:

1. STAY FLEXIBLE

Don’t get too fixated on a specific goal or run, stay flexible. To be honest: If the day doesn’t throw up optimum conditions, I enjoy my time spent on other slopes or with coffee and cake.

2. MINIMIZE RISK

We all know the feeling of exhilaration you get from a powder run. But we also know what else that can trigger. Be smart! Carry the right equipment, undergo safety training, check the conditions and never switch off.  

3. KEEP AN OVERVIEW

Don’t just focus on the freeride, take an integrated approach to the tour as a whole – from planning to the ascent itself, you should bear all aspects in mind – and enjoy them all, too.  

4. MAKE DOUBLY SURE OF THE WEATHER

Make sure you check the weather report. But compare several forecasts and if possible ask someone local what the weather is really like. But if you are caught out by the weather: See 1 – stay flexible and don’t just blindly follow the plan.

5. THE RIGHT POWDER FRIENDS

“No friends on powder days” is not a phrase for any true freerider. Good friends are what make powder days unforgettable. And safer. Experienced freeride friends support each other when it comes to evaluating conditions, finding the perfect line as well as with search and rescue in an emergency. Share the powder, double the joy!

DISCOVER OUR ATHLETE’S POWDER OUTFIT