Over the past year, the organisation has grown from four volunteers to over 40, delivering several fundraising efforts over the 2023 winter season where we raised $65k. With this money, we have invested in a new climate change impact report in conjunction with the Australian National University’s Mountain Research Facility. 

READ: Moments from an Australian winter

The first of its kind, this report shows the at-risk nature of Australian winters and investigates the broad range of impacts that a lack of snow coverage will have on snow sports in Australia, the businesses that surround it and the broader regional communities that rely on snow run off. 

Who is impacted by climate change?

Australia’s snow sports industry is the largest in the world at direct and short-term risk as a result of climate change. What we call for is not only greater action at the community level when it comes to combatting our own carbon footprints, but also greater coordination to make government and society realise the substantial impact that climate change has the potential to have on our environment, livelihoods, and regional communities. 

Our vision is for a future where our alpine playground and the communities and businesses that depend on it still exist. 

How is Protect our Winters fighting climate change?

Protect our Winters first and foremost is a community-based organisation. We are grounded in the team of individuals that support us to spread our message and develop new ideas to advocate for greater climate change action. This exists in the Protect our Winters Jindabyne local alliance which we set up last year and will continue to run this year, but also exists in the communities built around ski lodges, university clubs, competitive snow-sports, local businesses, schools and so much more. 

Through fundraisers, awareness-raising and having those conversations with the communities we’re all a part of, we can start to shift the dial in creating greater awareness of how critical climate change action is to our mountains. 

READ: The affects climate change is having on skiing in the alps

In 2023, we delivered our biggest year yet. This year, we go further. Through fighting for cultural change in our community and raising awareness of climate change, lobbying government for greater recognition of its impacts on our communities, and partnering with businesses, we take steps towards protecting the unique alpine environment we love. 

Our goal this winter is to truly unite our community and the many organisations that are its building blocks to fight for more action against climate change. For that we need your help. By following us on social media, buying our merch, donating, volunteering your time or simply talking to the people around you, you help us in achieving our goals for the 2024 season and beyond. 

More from Australian Winter 2024 Season:

Best ski gear from 2024
The anatomy of a ski turn
The freeride force is strong in the youth

The post Climate Change is Having a Severe Impact on Australian Winter Sports appeared first on Chillfactor.

Best Ski Gear from 2024

• Anon Sync Goggle
• Anon Windham WaveCel Helmet
• Dahu 01 Ski Boot
• Dynastar M Pro 100
• Giro Tenet MIPS Helmet
• MT610G Personal Locator Beacon
• Lange Shadow All Mountain Ski Boot
• Mammut Haldigrat Hooded Jacket
• The North Face Summit Stimson FUTURELIGHT Jacket
• Milo Action Communicator
• XTM Palladium 3.0 Mens Shell Snow Jacket

Why are these picks the best ski gear for 2024?

Our Chillfactor team spends a lot of time in the snow and are fortunate enough to test some of the coolest gear from all different brands. These are our top 11 picks for best ski gear in 2024.

READ: Moments from a winter

Anon Sync Goggles ($299.99)

The terrain-defining clarity of Perceive optics and the simplicity of M-Fusion for fast, easy lens changes. The Anon Sync Goggles offer the terrain defining-clarity of Perceive optics and the convenience of our M-Fusion magnetic latch system to secure and guide lenses into place. Full-perimeter venting ensures maximum airflow for a clear, fog-free view in all conditions. They are over-the-glasses compatible for wearing with eyeglasses and include a bonus lens for cloudy conditions plus a microfiber bag for storage and lens cleaning.

Read more here

Anon Windham WaveCel Helmet ($329.99)

Leading safety features, a durable hardshell design, and one-hand fit adjustability for distraction-free comfort.Anon’s Windham WaveCel Helmet pairs everyday hardshell durability with the advanced impact protection of WaveCel technology. WaveCel is a collapsible cellular structure that lines the inside of the helmet. It’s designed to flex, crumple, and glide to reduce rotational and direct impact forces. A 360° BOA® Fit System offers a quick, micro-adjustable fit with the turn of a dial, and the Fidlock® magnetic helmet strap buckle allows for easy one-hand operation, even with gloves.

Read more here

Dahu 01 Ski Boot ($1,399)

Redefining the relationship between on-hill performance and comfort, the Dahu ski boot integrates a winter boot that is both protective & comfortable with a high performance 3-Piece shell.  Awarded the Silver Medal by America’s Best Bootfitters, the Dahu 01 is not only the most comfortable boot you will ever try, it is also the easiest to enter & exit with their Corsair Entry. 100% Grilamid materials ensure there is no compromise on performance.

Read more here

Dynastar M Pro 100 ($1,399)

Produced in France, the skis in the M-Pro range are traditional freeride skis incorporating a new structure that reinforces the front and rear rocker for even greater fun and easier pivoting without losing any power underfoot or compromising the renowned stability of the M-Pro range.   The new M-Pro 100 Ti and M-Pro 94 models have been designed for intermediate to expert skiers and feature the eco-designed Hybrid Core 2.0 technology. The Hybrid Core 2.0 technology is found in a new wood layer design (placing them in three directions instead of just one: longitudinally, vertically, and transversally), to replace the mechanical properties provided by composite materials such as glued fiberglass, reducing the proportion of this material in the ski while improving Dynastar’s unique skiability.

Giro Tenet MIPS Helmet ($359.95)

Designed for all-mountain pursuits, the new Tenet features our hybrid construction to deliver the lightness of the in-molded lower and the durability of the hard-shell upper. The result is comfort and mobility for multiple long seasons on the hill. Featuring advanced protective technology, the Tenet is powered by Mips®, which can reduce rotational energy during certain impacts through our unique two-part construction. For adapting to changes in the weather, we integrate our adjustable Thermostat Control to give you the power to regulate your temp. Armed with In Form 2 Fit System and our breathable Ionic+® Fleece, the Tenet lets you dial in your fit and comfort quickly.

GME MT610G Personal Locator Beacon ($410)

The MT610G is a super-compact, lightweight PLB, offering an impressive 7-year battery life and a 6-year warranty. Featuring an integrated 72 channel GPS receiver, zero warm-up time, high-intensity LEDs, IP68 Ingress Protection, and an inherently buoyant design, the MT610G has not compromised the safety features included.

The MT610G has been designed, engineered, and manufactured in Australia, to provide the outdoor adventurer with a GPS PLB solution that is compact, easy-to-use, and affordable.

Lange Shadow All Mountain Ski Boot ($1149)

More power and more control with less energy. The Lange Shadow ski boots bring a new level of power transfer, vibration absorption and comfort to all-mountain skiing. Our Assisted Performance System amplifies your input to the boot through the mechanical advantage of our Dual Pivot and Suspension Blade technology. The boot’s clean, consistent flex is combined with increased shock absorption through the shell for enhanced snow feel and contact. Together with a 120 or 130-rated flex, this boot gives expert skiers every advantage for skiing any terrain on the mountain. At 97mm wide, our low-volume last complements the thermoformable liner for a comfortable performance fit.

Mammut Haldigrat Hooded Jacket ($999.95)

Whether you’re in resort or exploring the backcountry, when you’re on the hunt for the perfect line, this hardshell’s got your back. The Haldigrat is light enough for the ascent and burly enough for the descent. Thanks to a soft, sustainable outer fabric made from durable post-consumer recycled nylon and a Drytech Pro Technology waterproof membrane. A free-ride inspired long cut offer laid back style loaded with features (and pockets).

The North Face Summit Stimson FUTURELIGHT Jacket ($1,100)

The Summit Series Stimson FUTURELIGHT Jacket is a Breathable-waterproof, seam-sealed 3L shell versatile piece ideal for backcountry tours and extended stays on the mountain. Its lightweight back panel and built-in venting allow for comfortable wear while carrying a heavy pack. Features include stretch powder skirt, and secure-zip pockets, attached, helmet-compatible hood with a bonded brim and riveted cord-lock adjustment system; Two-way, #5 YKK® VISLON® AquaGuard® center front zip with an internal draft flap and laser-cut perforations at chin.

Milo Action Communicator ($399)

It enables hands-free, multi-way, group voice conversation, allowing adventurers to speak while on the trails, slopes or water. No phones or Wi-Fi needed. The patented MiloNet network allows everyone in the group to talk at the same time. Attach Milo securely to your clothing or handlebar using one of the purpose-designed clips leaving your hands free.

Milos create their own mesh network, so you don’t need Wi-Fi or a phone signal. The range between two Milos is 600 m (2000 feet) depending on the terrain. The MiloNet mesh network can extend that range when your group of 3 or more spreads out.

XTM Palladium 3.0 Mens Shell Snow Jacket ($499.99)

The Palladium 3.0 Mens Shell Snow Jacket combines ultimate performance with low-volume design. And, the jacket is now made and retailed in DERMIZAX fabric

 The durable, 4-way stretch outer shell fabric is PFC-free and made from 94% recycled PET bottles. Windproof plus 20K waterproofing and 15K breathability, means maximum protection and comfort.

Equipped with RECCO® technology, YKK zips, a snap away powder skirt, fixed hood, pit zips to dump heat and a freeride fit. Layer up with our Back Country Jacket for extra warmth on colder days. If you’re seeking a soft-shell that performs as hard as you do, this is it. All Technical outerwear : 100%  PFC-free DWR coatings, 100% carbon neutral and XTM is a B Corp Certified business!

The post The Best Ski Gear from 2024 | Winter Skiing Gear Guide appeared first on Chillfactor.

Chamonix France is a zone that tends to deliver on the promise of snow, but that’s just the half of it.  There are many reasons I am in awe of this place and if I had to choose one spot in Europe for the rest of my life this would be it. 

Chamonix France may not be the most family friendly, nor the most inter-connected ski destination in Europe, but it is the most dramatic and inspiring ski zone for my money. It’s a real town, with schools, ice hockey matches and the everyday stuff of normal life going on as well as a pulsing culture of alpinism up and down this majestic valley.  For me, and many skiers who seek out this place for their adrenaline dose, the fact it is not a ‘resort’ is part of the appeal.  Then there’s the terrain. It’s taken no prisoners here once you head beyond the managed pistes.

READ: Moments from an Australian Winter

One of the bucket list ski lines you’ll find here is the legendary Vallée Blanche which stretches from the top of Aiguille du Midi down to the valley floor into Chamonix France.  The vertical drop is almost 3 kilometres and you’ll have skied around 22kms by the time you reach the base – however doing the whole Vallée Blanche has been a pipe dream recently as the lower altitudes haven’t held snow.  A telecabine (gondola) was built at what used to be the base of the ice field in the 1980’s and would return skiers to the Montenvers station where the famous little red train would link back to town.

This iconic destination provides a stark example of what’s happening to glaciers in the Alps.  In the early 1990’s three steps were added to connect the bottom station of the lift from the ice field as it receded.  By the early 2000s 118 steps were needed to bridge the yawning gap and as climate change has accelerated so has the rate at which new steps were required with the total growing to a staggering 550+ steps by the early 2020s.  These changes underline what my own memories and eyes have been telling me – we are losing fragile ice fields at a rate that is anything but ‘glacial’ in pace. 

In February this year a new ‘La Mer de Glace’ gondola opened as part of a 53 million euro investment by the Compagnie du Mont-Blanc to enable skiers, snowboarders and sightseeing visitors to access this magnificent natural wonder.  The new lift extends to the bottom of the valley where it’s hoped the snow-pack will remain, allowing a ski connection to the base station for years to come.  

READ: Chillfactor’s top gear picks from winter 2024

So the good news, “hot laps” (for those fit enough) are now back on the table without a massive hike back up. It’s now technically possible to do 2 or 3 runs in a day.  

Although the Vallée Blanche is skied without guides by those with the knowledge, a ski partner and a plan, guided tours are available and are a must for those not well versed in off-piste glaciated terrain. It’s a very long descent, with numerous routes that can lure you into dead ends. You will be skiing over crevasses with sometimes very fragile snow bridges and this is a wild and untamed place.  A great day skiing can become lethal or at the very least turn into a scary-mad line.  It’s worth remembering most locals and pros here can tackle terrain better than you ever could. Staying humble and making smart choices will mean you get to share your story over après and do it again. Google “extreme ski” and “ Chamonix France ” to see what people get themselves into here. 

The post The affects of climate change on skiing at Chamonix France appeared first on Chillfactor.

Reflecting on her masterful achievements, Anthony said, “This season has been absolutely wild. It’s hard to put into words how proud I am of what my team and I have achieved. The skiing and jumping I’ve been able to do is incredible.” 

When the season began, the record for most mogul wins in a season was eleven, set by American Moguls legend Hannah Kearney in the 2011-12 season. By season’s end Anthony had won seven singles events and seven dual moguls events. As the records fell, so did the enormity of the achievement. “We were joking — well, my coach Pete [McNeil] was — that we’ve still got to come out here again and break another record.” 

The barnstorming performance could arguably the most dominant of any Australian athlete summer or winter in the last calendar year, with Anthony setting the tone early in December in Finland and finishing four months later in Italy. The results are mind-blowing!

World Cup 2023-24 results

• Ruka, Finland: Moguls 1st (84.18) 
• Idre Fjall, Sweden: Moguls 1st (79.74), Dual Moguls 3rd (defeated by Jaelin Kauf in the semi-final) 
• Alpe d’Huez, France: Moguls 1st (79.98), Dual Moguls 1st (defeated Olivia Giaccio in the final) 
• Bakuriani, Georgia: Moguls 1st (79.08), Dual Moguls 1st (defeating Maria Schwinghammer in final) 
• Val St. Come, Quebec Canada: Moguls 1st (82.01), Dual Moguls 1st (defeating Jaelin Kauf in the final) 
• Waterville, USA: Moguls 1st (81.22), Dual Moguls 1st (defeating Jaelin Kauf in the final) 
• Deer Valley, USA: Moguls 13th (44.73), Dual Moguls 1st (defeating Jaelin Kauf in the final) 
• Almaty, Kazakhstan: Moguls 1st (82.74), Dual Moguls 1st (defeating Jaelin Kauf in the final) 
• Chiesa in Valmalenco: Dual Moguls 1st (defeating Jaelin Kauf in the final)
• Crystal Globe Triple Champion – Singles, Duals & Overall.

What’s next for the Aussie? It seems progression and never-ending mastery in her sport are the catalyst and core motivation for the star skier:

 “A World Championship gold is the only major medal I don’t have yet. With the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympics coming up, which will be the first to feature dual moguls, my team and I will keep improving every year and pushing ourselves.”

We are so proud of what you’ve achieved this season Jakara. All eyes now focus on Toppa’s Dream at Perisher later this season for the Australian Mogul Championships then World Cup and World Championship season from December to March. The sky is the limit for this Australian Skiing Champion!

The post Jakara Anthony’s Record-Breaking Season appeared first on Chillfactor.

The Center Four, also known as the Ace Quad Lift #2, was the heartbeat of Niseko and it carried an astonishing 25 million passengers in its lifetime. Spanning 1.72 kilometres over 497 metres of elevation at four metre per second, its 111 chairs carried 780,000 passengers in the 2022-23 season alone.

For many, like myself, the Center Four provided life-altering experiences. I’ll never forget my maiden voyage aboard the iconic lift. I could barely contain my excitement as I ascended, staring down at the blank canvas below where 30 centimeters of fresh snow awaited. I had read about Niseko in magazines, seen it in videos, and I had finally made the pilgrimage across the Pacific to sample my first taste of Hokkaido’s famous powder. It was deep, dry, effortless… It was magic. 

Little did I know at the time, that descent would ignite a passion that would reshape the course of my life and career entirely, as I was inspired to combine my love of skiing and photography and make the move to Niseko.

The Center Four was unique in that it was the first high-speed quad in Japan. Having no hood nor footrest, riders were exposed to the elements and constant, unobstructed views of the 38º slope of the Super Course and the adjacent Super Ridge, for the entirety of their journey to the top of Ace Hill. The lift was also the epicentre of night skiing in Japan, perhaps the most iconic night skiing on the planet. If you’ve ever had a powder-fueled “nighter” in Hirafu, it was likely one of the most memorable experiences on snow that you’ve ever known.

We are grateful to the Center Four for the memories forged and the adventures shared with friends and visitors alike. The spirit of the Center Four will live on, aboard the all new 10-seater gondola that will take its place. The new gondola will begin operations in the 2024-25 season and will increase the carriage capacity from 1,800 riders per hour to 2,8000. 

As the sun sets on this chapter of Niseko’s storied history, we bid farewell to an old friend. But amidst the bittersweet farewells, we eagerly anticipate the adventures that lie ahead in the powder kingdom. 

Thank you Center Four

The post Niseko’s Center Four’s Swan Song appeared first on Chillfactor.

With a high five to a sluggish lifty, I ski straight onto the chair. My goggles fog, my gloves drip, water runs down the back of my leg. If I keep my head down and hood on, my neck will stay dry.  

At the top of the chair the wind is strong, whipping through the snow gums. Leaf confetti adds contrast to the snow. I push off the chair and point my skis down the fall line. The snow is consistent, creamy and forgiving. 

With every turn and air, I wonder where everyone is. I wonder if they know what they are missing. I make the most of the frail snow pack, cherishing every turn. If the rain keeps falling, they may be my last of the season. Time for another lap.

The post There are old skiers and bold skiers, but no old bold skiers. appeared first on Chillfactor.