Starting in the winter of 2013/2014, Yamnuska Mountain Adventure guides will be required to wear ski helmets in the backcountry on all of our ski programs. This decision reflects the growing trend in ski mountaineering, alpine skiing, and backcountry skiing, where helmet use is quickly becoming the cultural norm. As part of our commitment to safety, our staff policy now mandates that helmets must be worn in situations where there is a risk of head injury, in line with Workers Compensation guidelines.
For our guides, this means helmets will be compulsory during downhill sections of alpine skiing. While uphill and flat terrain travel may not always require helmets, they will be carried in the pack and worn when descending, ensuring maximum protection during the most technical portions of a ski tour.
Although helmet use is now mandatory for Yamnuska guides, it remains optional for guests on our ski programs. That being said, we strongly recommend that all participants wear helmets for any type of downhill skiing, whether in the frontcountry or backcountry. A helmet provides crucial protection and simply makes good sense, particularly given the unpredictability of snow conditions and terrain in backcountry environments.
For those unsure about the type of helmet to bring or wear, Yamnuska is happy to provide advice. We encourage anyone with questions or concerns to reach out, especially if you need recommendations for lightweight ski helmets suitable for long days in the mountains. Our goal is to ensure all participants, guides and guests alike, have a safe and enjoyable experience on our ski programs. By adopting helmet use as a standard practice, we aim to stay at the forefront of safety in the evolving world of ski mountaineering and backcountry skiing.
Dave Stark
Director of Operations
Yamnuska Mountain Adventures
