The White Out – Friday January 13

Dom: Hello, listeners! Welcome to The Whiteout Podcast, brought to you in partnership with Ski Weekends. I’m Dom, I started InTheSnow magazine 18 years ago, and now run a bunch of social channels, print magazine and the fab inthesnowmag youtube channel, and I’m very excited to introduce my trusted colleague…rooob stewart 

Rob: Hi yes thanks Dom, you can also see me on the inthesnow youtube channel reviewing and getting stuck into all the gear that's launching each season, i've done multiple ski seasons over the last 30 years, done most jobs in the industry, instructor, ski shop, chalet operations, I now run a ski PR agency looking after clients like Crans Montana, Les Gets and Jungfrau to name just a few and im a self confessed gear and ski gear enthusiast - some might say geek. ha ha

Dom: Great to be here again Rob each week, bringing our listeners  the latest ski news from around the world, where is best to ski right now, reviews of the hottest ski gear for the season, our regular race updates from the ski racing podcast, and of course each week we delve into some of the  most incredible ski destinations on the planet.  And all that in association with ski weekends our trusted headline sponsor this season 

Rob: And also  great to now be officially partnering with The Ski Racing Podcast for all of those into your racing def look up British Alpine Ski racer Ed Drake The Ski Racing Podcast 

So Ski Weekends Dom; a little bird told me you are travelling with them this weekend  

Dom:  yes very fortunate to have such a great partner on board with The Whiteout, i’ve been working with these guys for 18 years, they are specialists in great-value short ski breaks, offering 3, 4, or 7-night stays in catered chalets and fully flexible hotel options. Whether you're a solo traveler, planning a group trip, or looking for accommodation in some of the biggest and best ski areas, Ski Weekends has you covered. This winter, you can even ski with Eddie "The Eagle" Edwards in Les Gets! For more details, visit skiweekends.com.  Amd thats exactly what im gonna be doing…this weekend!! yippeee

So Rob whats been happening?

—

Rob: well there’s more new snow Dom! But we’ll look at that in our ‘where is best to ski snow’ that’s coming up. 

what about 40 year olds almost winning world cup and super G downhill races - perhaps we will expand on that one later too.

Dom: rob - have you been watching Ski Sunday Rob? 

Rob: yes i caught the last episode. 

Dom: there’s been a lot of chat on social media about it, what are your thoughts?

Rob: well it’s fantastic that we have a show like that on TV and long may it continue. We obviously know Chemmy really well and Graham who commentates on the racing, and then Ed we know pretty well right. all fantastic, experienced broadcasters. 

Dom: clearly some of the comments are targeted at the fact the ski racing is ‘old news’ though.

Rob: sure i do get that. it’s tricky though, what do you do? Yes i do watch ski racing on Eurosport or Discovery as it’s streamed now and i would say the majority of ski racing fans would do that, but there’s a lot of people that dont do that and would enjoy watching that stuff on a Sunday evening. we do tent to see the comments from the skiing community - it’s not them that we should worry about.

Dom: yes agree - i mean we want people that don’t ski a lot to watch it and then search ski magazines or skiing online…

Rob: yes! when they find InTheSnow and become a reader! or of course listen to us rabbit on.

Dom: maybe there’s a place for a bit more info, magazine style stuff that’s informative about news, destinations, general snow conditions and gear though.

Rob: ummm, i like your thinking Dom. I mean who would have thought…No but i will continue watching Ski Sunday, although like i said i think it’s important that it’s targeted at the wider public, we don’t need to worry about what all the hard core ski enthusiasts think of it right.

Dom: good point, okay so what are you up to this week Rob?

Rob: well i know i’ve mentioned it before but tomorrow I’m heading to Istanbul, that well known skiing city, bit of culture to tick off before flying into central Turkey and up to Erycles - there’s a group of 8 of us including Dan Egan and Warren Miller cameraman, Tom Grisson. obviously they are bringing me along for my looks…

Dom: well yes I’m sure, i mean what else would you add to the party? 

Rob: well, the party to start with, although i’m not sure the apres is quite Foulie Douce style - i can see there’s an enormous Mosque at the bottom of the ski resort, next to the car park, so i think ski boots off and a quick prayer before dinner will be more likely than a dance on a table with a aperol spritz. where are you heading Dom?

Dom: well Rob, I’ll definitely be sipping an aperol at the apres ski bar, aptly named that one, at the bottom of the slopes in Les Gets. any tips whilst I’m there Rob, you know the place well?

Rob: well there’s a nice church! no seriously that place is great. I’d head up Mont Chery, please don’t overlook that side of the mountain - glorious views to Mont Blanc, good freeride skiing over the back side, but all marked and patrolled, it’s basically a black run that’s left alone and then on front side, nicely pisted red runs. it’s normally much quieter than almost anywhere else in the whole ski area. 

Dom: good advice thanks Rob, well after that of course i’ll see you in La Clusaz the week after for the ski test. a reminder for our listeners to check out InTheSnow mag youtube channel and watch out for all the new skis coming out for the 2025-26 ski season…

Rob: looking forward to it Dom - right what’s up in the news?

Dom: well here we bring you the latest updates from around the skiing world, from exciting resort developments, events, and everything making headlines in the ski world. so Let’s get stuck in!

Rob: I like this story Dom - what's hot and steamy and often enjoyed by the fireplace after an energetic day on the slopes?

Dom: ummm, well I'm thinking about some kind of James Bond scene here Rob but I'll opt for a hot chocolate.

Rob: well yes you're correct on both counts there Dom, but yes this story is about that mighty après ski cocktail (or frankly during ski too), the Chocolate Chaud. 

Lindt UK has just crowned Villars in Switzerland as the best ski resort for hot chocolate in Europe. Their study looked at almost 300 resorts, scoring them on price, availability, and quality. Villars came out on top with an impressive score of 83.5 out of 100. Nestled in the Vaud Alps, this resort offers hot chocolate for an average of just €4, with 25% of its menus featuring the classic winter warmer.

Other top resorts for hot chocolate include Crans Montana in Switzerland (2nd place) and Italy’s Madonna di Campiglio and Cortina D’Ampezzo (in equal 3rd). On the flip side, Belgium’s Mont des Brumes landed at the bottom of the rankings, scoring just 32 out of 100. But let's face it, who skis in Belgium apart from, Belgian's?

Interestingly, Austria topped the charts for the priciest hot chocolate, averaging €7.95 a cup, while Greece offers the best bargain at €3.99.

Dom: well it looks like Switzerland might be the ultimate destination for chocolate lovers this winter Rob, or maybe we should do the chocalate tour and rate them ourselves.

Rob: Agreed. Villars-sur-Ollon here we come

DOM next a bit of a reminder update from L2A

• €145 million being invested into new developments to the ski area
• These improvements are designed to make the area even more accessible to beginners, improve visitor experience including fewer queues and visitor comfort as well as improvements to sustainability
• the new Jandri 3S gondola which you cna watch the hugely succesfuol video on our youtube channel, the inauguration is taking place on 17th January. Festivities will include an opening ceremony and a drone show in the evening
• The funicular which takes skiers and pedestrians from 3100m to 3400m has also undergone renovation, making it even quicker to get up to 3400m on the glacier
• Visitors this season are also benefiting from a Redevelopment of the beginners area in the Coolidge sector  and includes a new user-friendly free magic carpet to replace 2 old button lifts, The new Super Venosc gondola opened last season and gives access from the resort to the summit of the Vallee Blanche sector at 2100m in just 5 minutes and a  new easy green run in the Vallee Blanche area opened in December 2023 which gives better accessibility to beginners at 

great that these super resorts dont just rest on their laurels isnt it…

ROB

Recent snowfall in northern England has created excellent conditions for rural ski centres, including Ski-Allenheads in Northumberland, a volunteer-run club operating since the 1960s. With tractor-powered tows and snow conditions likened to the Alps, the club is welcoming skiers and snowboarders. Visitors are advised to bring a shovel for parking due to snow blockages. Other local resorts, such as Yad Moss in Cumbria and Weardale Ski Club in the North Pennines, also report great skiing conditions but recommend winter tyres or snow chains for icy roads.

dom

and in Snowdonia its created excellent skiing conditions, with areas like Marchlyn Mawr reservoir experiencing knee-deep snow and fresh powder. Local skiers, including Mark Handford from Snowdonia Adventures, described the conditions as some of the best in years, though off-piste skills are required, and avalanche risks must be considered. Temperatures are expected to rise soon, likely ending the snow.

rob: Meanwhile, the Lake District Ski Club, the UK's oldest geographically-based ski club, has been enjoying snowy conditions on Raise Fell near Helvellyn. Despite challenging weather, members had two days of skiing in early January. Club spokesperson Mike Sweeney emphasized the tough, remote nature of the area, requiring good equipment and skills. The club, founded in 1936, fosters a strong sense of community and welcomes skiers of all ages, though under-18s must be accompanied by an adult. The club also owns "The Powder Room," the second-highest flushing toilet in England.

dom and Mia Brookes, the British snowboarder, claimed third place at the Big Air World Cup in Kreischberg, marking her fourth World Cup podium of the season. Despite tough conditions, Brookes delivered strong performances, landing a Cab 9 (72.00 points) and a Back Double Cork 12 (76.00 points). She finished just 9.75 points behind second-place Reira Iwabuchi, with Anna Gasser taking first. Brookes is tied for first in the Big Air women's standings with Japan's Mari Fukada, as she defends her Big Air Crystal Globe title. The next World Cup event will be in Aspen on February 6th.

Podium Results:

1. Anna Gasser (AUT)
2. Reira Iwabuchi (JPN)
3. Mia Brookes (GBR)

rob

The strike by Park City ski patrollers is set to end after a tentative agreement was reached between Vail Resorts and the Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association (PCPSPA). The strike, which began on December 27, 2024, following complaints about Unfair Labor Practices, caused significant disruptions at the resort.

The new agreement, which runs through April 2027, includes wage increases, improved benefits, and other key provisions, though specific details are not yet public. The union’s bargaining committee has unanimously endorsed the deal, and both sides are optimistic about restoring normal operations.

Vail Resorts expressed regret over the impact on guests and thanked employees for their efforts to keep the resort running. Both parties are now focused on moving forward as a unified team.

—-

dom

"And now its time for Where’s Best to Ski Now! We both love talking about snow rob lets face it, thats essentially what this is all about, so lets get stuck into where the best snow conditions are right now and where is  best to ski right now im hoping the first thing you say is les gets…

ROB

After a warm and dry end to 2024 for many regions, the ski world has been treated to a refreshing change in weather over the past 10 days. Temperatures have dropped, and fresh snow has blanketed popular ski destinations across the Alps, Rockies, Japan, and the Pacific Northwest, replenishing snow depths and opening up more terrain. Whether you’re chasing powder or simply craving stunning alpine views, now’s the perfect time to hit the slopes.

In the Alps, the weather has settled after a period of fluctuating conditions, including snow, rain, sun, and wind. Temperatures are returning to normal, with the freezing level now around 1,500m in the north-western Alps and even colder in the east. The forecast looks promising, with clear skies expected above any persistent valley clouds, and freezing levels likely to rise above 2,000m in the west by the weekend.

Sunshine in the likes of La Clusaz, the PDS and many other resorts but with crisp conditions. While recent snowfall has helped stabilize the snowpack, caution is advised off-piste due to windblown snow and shifting temperatures.

With more dry weather on the horizon for high-altitude resorts, conditions are looking great for skiers and snowboarders alike. 

Here's where you’ll find some of the best skiing right now.

DOM

indeed well starting in Austria: Fresh Snow and Perfect Conditions

Austria has been basking in frequent snowfall over the past week, with temperatures dipping as low as -12°C, perfect for topping up base cover. Although there were some sleet and rain spells, the majority of the country’s ski centres are in prime condition, with most slopes open and snow depths climbing. The iconic Skiwelt, Saalbach Hinterglemm, and the Arlberg (including Lech and St Anton) all have more than 240km of open terrain, and it’s expected to get colder and sunnier in the coming days.

Must-Visit: Skiwelt, Saalbach Hinterglemm, Arlberg (Lech, St Anton)

France: Snowfall and Sunshine Return

After a week of heavy snow (up to 60cm in 48 hours), the French Alps have seen snow depths bounce back to near-peak levels. While rising temperatures caused some rain and sleet up to 2500m, conditions are improving again as colder air moves in. The huge ski areas like Portes du Soleil and 3 Valleys have a massive 550km of terrain open, offering everything from powder runs to groomed pistes.

Must-Visit: Portes du Soleil, 3 Valleys

Italy: Cold Weather and Snow in the Dolomites

Italy’s snow conditions have been a bit more unsettled, but the northern and western areas are seeing some fresh snowfall. Madonna di Campiglio is one of the big winners, while Livigno, which had been struggling with little snow, received a 35cm boost in just 24 hours. Most Italian resorts are now 90% open, with the Milky Way region on the French border offering more than 300km of slopes.

Must-Visit: Madonna di Campiglio, Livigno, Milky Way

ROB

yes dom and in Switzerland: Solid Snow and Strong Winds

Switzerland has had a week of heavy snowfalls, especially at higher altitudes. Resorts like Verbier and Zermatt are reporting over 300km of open terrain, though high winds and rain at lower altitudes have made for challenging conditions at times. Verbier’s 4 Valleys and the Portes du Soleil are among the best places to visit, offering plenty of options for both skiers and snowboarders.

Must-Visit: Verbier’s 4 Valleys, Zermatt-Cervinia

Pyrenees: Fresh Snow and Mixed Conditions

The Pyrenees have been hit with fresh snow after some warmer weather reduced the snowpack between Christmas and New Year. While Andorra is now reporting about 70% of its slopes open, St Lary has reached 90% open. Baqueira Beret is also in good form, with snow conditions improving across the region.

Must-Visit: St Lary, Baqueira Beret

Scandinavia: Powder and Cold Temperatures

Scandinavia has seen very low temperatures this week, with some areas dipping into the -20s. Snowfall has been heaviest in Norway, and resorts like Hemsedal, Trysil, and Salen are now up to 50-70% open, with more snow expected. The best powder can be found in western Norway, where some resorts have gained up to 50cm of snow in the last seven days.

Must-Visit: Hemsedal, Trysil, Geilo

DOM

heading to Eastern Europe: Snowmaking in Full Force

Eastern Europe has been seeing plenty of fresh snow, especially in Poland, Czechia, and Slovakia, although some lifts have had to close due to strong winds. Bansko in Bulgaria is one of the top spots, with 90% of its slopes open and excellent snow depth thanks to earlier accumulations. Špindlerův Mlýn in Czechia has also reported fresh snowfall, making it a great choice for powder lovers.

Must-Visit: Bansko, Špindlerův Mlýn

Scotland: Snowmaking Keeps Resorts Open

Despite some warm weather up to New Year, Scotland has seen base depths start to build again thanks to persistent cold temperatures and snowmaking. Four of the five resorts have at least some terrain open, with Cairngorm, Glencoe, Glenshee, and The Lecht offering skiing conditions. However, warmer weather next week might make things uncertain for natural snow cover.

Must-Visit: Cairngorm, Glencoe, Glenshee

ROB 

and in Canada: Western Resorts Thriving

In Canada, it’s been a tale of two climates: the Eastern resorts have been struggling with a lack of snow, but in the Western regions, the snow has been piling up. Resorts in Alberta and British Columbia are now 90-100% open, with snow depths reaching 1-2 meters. Lake Louise and Whistler Blackcomb are top choices for powder seekers, with over 20 new runs opening at Lake Louise recently.

Must-Visit: Lake Louise, Whistler Blackcomb

USA: Pacific Northwest Leads the Way

The USA has seen snowstorms hitting regions from coast to coast, but the Pacific Northwest is where the best conditions are. Resorts like Crystal Mountain and Stevens Pass are reporting over 5 meters of snow this season, offering some of the deepest powder in the country. The Rockies also saw significant snow, and the Eastern US is now under Arctic conditions, with plenty of fresh snow to enjoy.

Must-Visit: Crystal Mountain, Keystone, Sunday River

DOM

so In Summary

wherever youre heading right now, you are probably in for a good time, id say thats fair isnt it…!?

DOM

"Next up Rob is  The Gear Guide! an appropriate new jingle there rob ahhh the lights gone im gonna change these lenses people - we might have to change that when people get that new head goggle we saw last week 🙂

rob - yep indeed well worth checking inthesnowmag youtube channel for some of the fab gear we picked up last week…anyway,  lets admit it dom, we love this part best dont we, where we delve into the latest and greatest ski gear thats caught our eye —from skis and boots to helmets and goggles. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, we’ve got gear to keep you safe and stylish, so what have we got this week"

DOM - BEFORE WE LAUNCH INTO THIS ROB ITS COMPETITION TIME

to Win a GoPro HERO Speciality Accessory Bundle!

Enter now for a chance to win This bundle includes everything you need to start filming high-quality footage on the slopes, your bike, or whatever action you’re up to.

The package includes:

• GoPro HERO camera
• Bite Mount and Floating Handler
• Sticky mounts for easy attachment
• 64GB MicroSD card
• Protective camera case

so stunning 4K video and 12MP photos with HyperSmooth stabilization

How to Enter: all you have to do is leave a podcast review, whatever way you listen to this podcast, just leave a review and we will shout out your name in a couple of weeks time if you're a winner!!

rob - thats a cool competition dom…

dom - well i thought it would be great to cover some of the best all mountain skis for this season as these were extremely popular video reviews that we did for this season,  we will take a full listen but for now  as a summary :

For Men we picked

 The Black Crows Camox a versatile all-mountain ski that excels as a one-ski quiver, playful yet responsive at speed at just under 100mm in the waist, it's wide enough for off-piste adventures while still nimble on groomed runs. 

 The Salomon QST 92 designed for the modern freerider. With a 92mm waist, it’s lightweight and responsive, perfect for side-country exploration or carving through bumps. 

And the Rossignol Arcade 88 designed for expert and advanced skiers. The 88mm waist offers a great balance of stability and responsiveness, while the Line Control Technology (LCT) and Vibration Absorption System (VAS) enhance control across various terrains. 

ROB:  yep and for women Elsa chose:

 The Line Pandora 85 as a lightweight, stable ski built for hardpack conditions and fast snow. It's the perfect choice for mainly piste skiers who occasionally venture off-piste. 

and the Volkl Blaze 86 (86mm underfoot) fast and responsive all-mountain ski designed for sporty skiers who like to go off-piste. 

Both skis deliver a perfect balance of playfulness, stability, and all-terrain versatility, making them excellent choices for skiers looking to explore everything from groomed runs to off-piste challenges.

DOM

so Lets take a listen to the full  reviews now, listeners this is 10 mins long so if you want to skip you can, you can go watch this on youtube on the inthesnowmag youtube channel at another time or sit back and enjoy 10 mins of ski reviews now :)  also any gear that you would like to hear about please do drop us a line

WE DONT HAVE THIS HE SAID NOT ENOUGH TO SAY THIS WEEK

"Time to hit the race corner with Ski Racing Worldwide! In this segment, we’re joined by British Alpine ski racer Ed Drake to bring you all the action from the slopes—covering the latest results, standout performances, and insider insights from the world of ski racing. Let’s get into it!"

next up rob is our Destination of the Week! 

and in today's episode, we're taking you to an incredible location that's perfect for adventure, relaxation, and everything in between. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or just looking to escape to somewhere beautiful, this week's destination has it all. So grab your headphones and get ready to explore with us!

the DESTINATION is La Plagne with Mountain Heaven 

Rob: yes and the  reason we are talking la plagne is because  it’s Mountain Heaven’s 21st Anniversary and we know them so well we thought we’d talk about this…

Dom: Yep, that’s right Rob, Mountain Heaven is celebrating an impressive milestone—21 years of providing fantastic ski holidays in the French Alps. Over the years, they’ve built a solid reputation for their catered chalets and self-catered apartments, and now they’re focusing exclusively on La Plagne. It’s a fitting tribute to the place where it all began for them and a testament to their deep connection with this resort that happens to be one of the most popular ski destinations for the British market. 

Rob: That’s right, Dom. La Plagne is a key skiing destination in the French Alps that is actually spread across 11 villages, each with its own unique flavour, La Plagne genuinely offers something for everyone—from families and beginners to seasoned experts. It’s part of the Paradiski area, which connects La Plagne with Les Arcs, giving skiers access to over 425 kilometers of pistes. Mountain Heaven has chosen to focus their efforts here because they know the place so well. 

Dom: We know that what makes Mountain Heaven stand out is their attention to detail and commitment to their customers. They’re the only accommodation provider in La Plagne 1800 and La Plagne Montalbert that protects their customers’ money. 

Rob: That is good to know… Mountain Heaven’s catered chalets are great for those who want to enjoy the luxury of having everything taken care of—delicious meals, cozy accommodation, and excellent service. For those who prefer flexibility, their self-catered apartments are an ideal choice, offering all the comforts of home while being right in the heart of the mountains.

Dom: Looking at the skiing in La Plagne there really are slopes that cater to all levels, from gentle nursery runs to challenging black pistes, as well as huge areas of off piste too. Off the slopes, there’s plenty to do as well—from husky sledding and bobsleigh rides to relaxing at a spa or enjoying some of the fantastic mountain restaurants.

Rob: And with Mountain Heaven, you’re not just getting a place to stay; you’re benefiting from their 21 years of expertise. They’ve taken all that experience and poured it into creating the perfect holiday experience. Their local knowledge is invaluable, whether it’s recommending the best spots to ski or sharing tips on where to find the best tartiflette in town.

Dom: And let’s not forget the convenience of La Plagne itself. With its excellent lift system, you can be on the slopes in no time. The resort’s altitude also means reliable snow conditions, making it a great choice throughout the season. Plus, the views across the Alps are absolutely breathtaking.

Rob: Mountain Heaven’s commitment to La Plagne is a reflection of their passion for skiing and mountain holidays. After 21 years, they’ve truly mastered the art of creating unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a family looking for a hassle-free holiday, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a group of friends ready to hit the slopes, they have something for everyone.

Dom: If you’re planning a trip to the Alps, you can find out more about Mountain Heaven and their properties at www.mountainheaven.co.uk. It’s definitely worth checking out if La Plagne is on your radar this season.

"so That’s a wrap for this episode of The Whiteout Podcast! Thank you so much for tuning in—we hope you enjoyed the show. If you did, please take a moment to leave us a review; it really helps us reach more ski enthusiasts like you.

We’ll be back in two weeks with more ski news, gear insights, and destination highlights. Until then, stay safe on the slopes and have an amazing time out there. See you next time!"

Podcast Summary: The Whiteout – Friday, January 13, 2025

Hosts: Dom & Rob Stewart

• Intro & Hosts Introduction:
  
  
  
  • Dom: Founder of InTheSnow magazine, with 18 years in the industry, and host of the InTheSnow YouTube channel.
  • Rob Stewart: Ski gear enthusiast, former ski instructor, PR expert with a focus on Crans Montana, Les Gets, and Jungfrau, and host of gear reviews on InTheSnow YouTube.
• Sponsorships & Travel:
  
  
  
  • The Whiteout is partnered with Ski Weekends, which offers great-value short ski breaks (3, 4, or 7 nights), including stays in catered chalets and flexible hotel options in major ski areas.
  • Dom: Heading to Les Gets to ski with Eddie "The Eagle" Edwards this weekend.
  • Rob: Heading to Istanbul and then to Erycles, Turkey, for a ski trip with notable figures from the ski industry.
• Skiing World News:
  
  
  
  • Rob: Talks about the resurgence of snow, with excellent skiing conditions across Europe and the UK, including Ski Allenheads in Northumberland, and Snowdonia.
  • Dom: Shares updates on local ski clubs and the growing interest in UK ski resorts, like the Lake District Ski Club.
• Ski Racing & TV Shows:
  
  
  
  • Dom & Rob discuss Ski Sunday, the popular British ski racing show. Despite criticism from hardcore fans, they agree that it’s an excellent platform for introducing new viewers to the world of ski racing.
  • Rob: Acknowledges that while true enthusiasts might not need Ski Sunday, it’s key to engage the broader audience.
• Ski Gear & Resorts:
  
  
  
  • Discussion on the launch of ski gear for the 2025-26 season, with a focus on the upcoming InTheSnow ski test in La Clusaz.
  • Rob: Offers advice for those skiing in Les Gets, particularly the Mont Chery side of the mountain for quieter runs and stunning views.
• Ski Resort Developments:
  
  
  
  • Dom: Updates on major investments in resorts like Les Deux Alpes (€145 million into new developments), including a new gondola, funicular renovations, and improved beginner areas.
• Hot Chocolate Rankings:
  
  
  
  • Villars in Switzerland is crowned the best ski resort for hot chocolate by Lindt UK, based on quality, price, and availability. Other top spots include Crans Montana, Madonna di Campiglio, and Cortina D’Ampezzo.
  • Rob & Dom joke about doing a chocolate tour themselves.
• Big Air World Cup & Mia Brookes:
  
  
  
  • Mia Brookes, the British snowboarder, claims third place at the Big Air World Cup in Kreischberg, marking her fourth World Cup podium of the season.
  • Brookes is tied for first in the women’s Big Air standings and is defending her Big Air Crystal Globe title.
• Park City Strike Update:
  
  
  
  • The strike by ski patrollers at Park City ends after a tentative agreement is reached between Vail Resorts and the Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association (PCPSPA).
  • Rob: Notes that the strike, which started in December 2024, has caused disruptions but is now resolved with wage increases and improved benefits.
• Where’s Best to Ski Now?:
  
  
  
  • Fresh snow has improved conditions across major ski regions:
    • Austria: Frequent snowfall has improved conditions in Skiwelt, Saalbach Hinterglemm, and the Arlberg (Lech, St Anton).
    • France: Snowfall has rebounded in the French Alps, with great conditions in the Portes du Soleil and 3 Valleys regions.
    • UK: Ski areas in Northumberland, Snowdonia, and the Lake District are seeing great conditions for rural skiing, despite some logistical challenges like icy roads and snow blockages.

Podcast Summary Notes – The Whiteout Podcast

Episode Date: Friday, January 13, 2025

Hosts:

• Dom: Founder of InTheSnow magazine and YouTube channel
• Rob: Ski PR expert, ski gear enthusiast, and veteran of the ski industry

Episode Highlights:

Introduction:

• Dom and Rob introduce the podcast, sharing their extensive experience in the ski industry and their ongoing partnership with Ski Weekends, the show's sponsor.
• Dom is headed to Les Gets this weekend for a ski trip with Ski Weekends. He shares details about their affordable, flexible ski break packages.
• Rob talks about his upcoming trip to Istanbul, followed by skiing in Turkey, adding a fun twist to their travel plans.

Ski News & Updates:

Hot Topics:

• Ski Sunday: Rob shares thoughts on the ski racing show. While it’s beloved by hardcore fans, they discuss how it could appeal to wider audiences and promote skiing in general.

Resort Developments & Snow Conditions:

• Ski Resorts in the UK & Northern England: Ski centers like Ski-Allenheads in Northumberland and Yad Moss in Cumbria are seeing great snow conditions, while Snowdonia has received deep powder.
• L2A (Les 2 Alpes): €145 million being invested into improvements, including a new gondola and updates to the glacier and beginner areas. A drone show is planned for the new Jandri 3S gondola inauguration on January 17.

Top Destinations for Snow & Skiing:

• Austria: Fresh snow and perfect conditions in Skiwelt, Saalbach Hinterglemm, and Arlberg (Lech, St. Anton).
• France: After heavy snowfall, resorts like Portes du Soleil and 3 Valleys have recovered, offering great skiing and sunshine.
• Italy: Fresh snow at Madonna di Campiglio and Livigno, with most resorts now 90% open.
• Switzerland: Verbier and Zermatt boast solid snow, but high winds and rain at lower altitudes challenge conditions at times.
• Pyrenees: Fresh snow improves conditions in Andorra, St Lary, and Baqueira Beret.
• Scandinavia: Cold temperatures and heavy snowfall in Norway, with top resorts like Hemsedal and Trysil offering great powder.
• Eastern Europe: Bansko (Bulgaria) and Špindlerův Mlýn (Czechia) are seeing good snow conditions and well-maintained slopes.
• Scotland: Snowmaking efforts are keeping resorts like Cairngorm and Glencoe open despite mild weather earlier in the season.
• Canada: Western resorts like Lake Louise and Whistler Blackcomb are thriving with excellent snow coverage.
• USA: The Pacific Northwest (e.g., Crystal Mountain, Stevens Pass) is experiencing deep powder, while the Rockies and Eastern US are seeing fresh snow.

Ski Gear Guide:

Competition Alert:

• Win a GoPro HERO Speciality Accessory Bundle (includes GoPro HERO camera, mounts, SD card, and case). To enter, leave a podcast review!
• Rob and Dom discuss all-mountain ski gear, focusing on the latest picks for both men and women.

Men’s All-Mountain Skis:

• Black Crows Camox: Versatile, playful, and responsive at speed, perfect for both groomed runs and off-piste adventures.
• Salomon QST 92: Lightweight, responsive freeride ski, ideal for side-country exploration and carving.
• Rossignol Arcade 88: Expert-level ski offering a balance of stability and responsiveness, with Line Control Technology for smooth control.

Women’s All-Mountain Skis:

• Line Pandora 85: Lightweight, stable, and great for hardpack conditions, perfect for piste skiers who occasionally venture off-piste.
• Volkl Blaze 86: Fast and responsive, designed for sporty skiers who enjoy off-piste skiing.

Destination of the Week: La Plagne with Mountain Heaven

• La Plagne celebrates Mountain Heaven's 21st Anniversary, highlighting their exclusive focus on La Plagne for catered chalets and self-catered apartments.
• Located in the Paradiski area, La Plagne is a favorite for families and seasoned skiers, offering a vast network of slopes across 11 villages.
• Mountain Heaven stands out for its personalized service and commitment to offering a hassle-free, unforgettable experience in the French Alps.

Key Takeaways:

• Best Ski Resorts for Current Conditions:
  • Top snow destinations: Switzerland (Verbier), Austria (Skiwelt), France (Portes du Soleil), and Scandinavia (Hemsedal).
  • Eastern Europe: Bansko and Špindlerův Mlýn are excellent choices for fresh snow.
• Gear Recommendations: The Black Crows Camox and Salomon QST 92 are standout picks for all-mountain skiers.
• Destination of the Week: La Plagne, ideal for all levels of skiers and adventurers, with Mountain Heaven offering top-notch accommodations.

Tune in for more ski news, gear reviews, and travel tips in the next episode of The Whiteout Podcast!