The White Out Podcast – season 4, Episode 1 

INTRO

Dom: Hello, listeners and Welcome to The Whiteout Podcast, season 4, episode 1. I’m Dom from InTheSnow magazine and of course I am here with my co-host, Rob Stewart from Ski Press.

ROB: yeah hi Dom, Season 4, wow, does time fly - it’s good to be back and we’ve got a lot to talk about. 

DOM: you better get on with it then.

ROB: well, sure but of course we really should have a little catch up first. Did you have a nice summer?

DOM: amazing! But let’s not dwell on the past - we need to look ahead to winter, the snow, the mountains and the skiing. It’s time to get excited again and I’m sure you’re busy right now Rob. and we are a finalist at the Travel Media Awards coming up in around a week’s time - yet another party…

ROB: yes lots of those media PR events where we get to mingle, drink champagne and schmooze in fancy London bars and restaurants, confusing the staff by talking about skiing in September.

DOM: umm yes think Absolutely Fabulous for skiing…

ROB: god i’d love to be Patsy - did i just say that?

DOM: actually you could be the Patsy of the ski PR business Rob

ROB: ha! Actually there’s one or two others that could definitely be the Patsy of the ski world, but not me. Do you remember the son? No probably not because he wasn't ever in the actual tv show - he was the one on adventures in antarctica. There was quite a lot of similarity in our family because my mum liked to party, my sister was geeky you know like Saffron the daughter, my dad was the sensible one and my parents were divorced so that worked too - then me, i was the one off exploring stuff. 

DOM: But was your mum in fashion PR? 

ROB: no but my dad was in the fashion business - but unfortunately we didn't have a large house in Kensington or get to drink expensive French Champagne every day. 

DOM: you just do that now instead.

ROB: ha ha yes in September and October i do for sure, actually come to think of it, most of the winter too. I mean who would want to be a skiing PR guy? Seriously. You get to take nice journalists out to ski resorts, ski all day, do lots of apres, eat in the best restaurants, drink the best wine. What a depressing job.

DOM: now you put it like that Rob, it’s no wonder more people don’t do it.

ROB: well good luck to them, off you go. It’s bloody hard really, i mean think of your liver and the calories.

DOM: on a serious note though, about the whole PR industry and travel, do you think people realise how it all works?

ROB: yes i’m sure they do i don’t think it’s a secret and i guess you mean resorts hosting journalists. It does work and it’s a great way for people to really experience a place and let’s face it we need that and good journalists can create a genuine story - they aren't paid by the resort to go there if they are writing for a magazine or a newspaper, so they aren't obligated to say anything specific - yes of course they need to mention who has hosted them but that is actually a requirement. I mean you run a magazine so you need to go and experience places, it’s impossible to get a feel for a place if you don’t.

DOM: that’s true, very true, well on that note, where are you heading off to this winter Rob?

ROB: quite a few places Dom - although we are going to look at some of those destinations later on in the show, i think between us we can conjure up quite a few destinations, although i must say i am still open to offers - just saying. 

DOM: I’ve heard that about you Rob.

ROB: Yes I’m sure. I don’t accept any offer though! well you know I would take the ski world over fashion - back that again - right now when you hear about all of that. 

DOM: we of course get the best of both worlds Rob - i mean there’s a lot of fashion in our world too isn't there?

ROB: True, i popped into the Shackleton store on Piccadilly last week, very impressive and right next door to the Arc’teryx store too.

DOM: just before we met for a beer in Albert’s Schloss round the corner…

ROB: love that place and yes then swanned off to the Soho Hotel to see Sam Anthamatten talk about helisking with Elemental Adventures, obviously before swinging back to see you at Sketch for a cocktail.

DOM: hang on, are you sure you’re not Patsy?

ROB: well if I’m Patsy you’re Adina and then we’re all in trouble.

DOM: indeed, well with that in mind we better start our absolutely fabulous season 4 of the white out podcast and get into the news section, what’s happening Rob..

ROB: a lot is happening Dom. before the main news section, let’s mention the new London Snow Show taking place over the weekend of October 18-19 at Olympia.

DOM: where of course we will be hosting a live edition of the white out podcast on the snow show radio at 1pm both days.

ROB: Yes come along and give us a heckle - the radio station is located inside the Jibworx bus and will run all day long with Simon Clark running the show but we’ll give him a lunch break and present the white out - very exciting. You looking forward to the show Dom…

DOM: talk about magazine etc

ROB: talk about show in general 

Okay now it’s onto the news section proper…

NEWS

ROB: let’s start with a very serious story - well i certainly i take this stuff seriously…

DOM: You can’t take the T out of British skiing.

Ski Beat says it’ll send almost 100,000 tea bags to its French chalets this winter so guests don’t go without a proper English cuppa.

The company sources wine, cheese and beer locally in the Alps, but draws the line at tea. They also stock HP Sauce and Marmite in all chalets throughout the season. The British chalet holiday model – booking by the room, with a host cooking and looking after guests – might be in the Alps, but it’s still built around home comforts and tea is obviously very important.

ROB: I tell you what Dom, i go without tea for quite a lot of the winter but whenever i stay in a British run chalet i really do appreciate a good cuppa - it’s impossible to get anywhere else.

*****

ROB: Ski Weekends is expanding for winter 25/26

Our good friends at the short break specialist has added four new ski-in/ski-out chalets in Val d’Isère and is putting a big focus on the Avoriaz opening weekend too, where Guests can try skis from all the major brands for free during the resort’s consumer test from 12 to 14 December. There’s four new chalets in Val d’Isère too, Solo & Ladies-Only Trips and new hotels across the alps. For more details, visit skiweekends.com. 

*****

ROB:?? The skiing world mourns Matteo Franzoso.

The Italian World Cup skier died last week in a training crash in La Parva, Chile.

The Kelly Brush Foundation has called for urgent safety improvements.

In a letter to the FIS, the US-based charity offered expertise and recommended immediate steps to prevent further tragedies, including establishing an international safety audit committee and extending safety measures to training venues, not just race courses.

The foundation has 20 years’ experience improving ski racing safety in the US.

It has trained hundreds of coaches and volunteers, funded over 100 miles of safety netting, and helped change the culture of safety across American ski clubs.

Tiger Shaw, KBF board member, said FIS can “lead these efforts in a meaningful way” and urged the global ski community to prioritize athlete safety as the season gets underway.

*****

DOM: Inghams Ski has launched its new campaign for winter 25/26: ‘Ski Better with Inghams’.

The campaign showcases the brand’s decades of experience on the slopes while speaking directly to what today’s skiers want — a more rewarding, hassle-free holiday.

The message is simple: with Inghams, you’re not just going skiing, you’re skiing better.

The campaign highlights three core pillars: heritage, service, and expertise, alongside a deep-rooted passion for the mountains. From first-timers to seasoned skiers, Inghams promises support and guidance at every stage of the holiday.

Marketing director Dean Harvey explains the approach. He says the campaign is about helping guests get the very best from their ski trip, from selecting the right resort to providing expert advice and personal service throughout. It’s the small details and genuine care, he adds, that set Inghams apart in a crowded market.

Inghams aims to show travellers that a ski holiday with them is more than just skiing — it’s a better, more memorable experience.

Comment: I like this idea and on the face of it, it does sound like a bit of marketing spiel but actually i do think we all need to step back sometimes and understand that a bit of coaching goes a long way and will make the skiing holiday a better one…

You can check the video out on YouTube https://youtu.be/3nnTA3fntWM?si=Ppp7jbXbTJaOKCdB

*****

ROB: We can’t really ignore the big event of the season in our first episode of this winter’s podcast…

It’s less than two months to go until the torch will be lit for Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games.

The IOC’s Coordination Commission has confirmed preparations have entered a decisive delivery phase ahead of the Games, which begin on 6 February.

The Olympic Torch Relay will cover 20 regions, 110 provinces, and several UNESCO sites. Over 10,000 torchbearers will participate in a 12,000km, 63-day journey with daily public celebrations. Almost 800,000 tickets have already been sold, with cultural and community events involving six million people so far.

Venue preparations are well underway. 85% of competition venues already exist, with only a few new builds like the Milan Olympic Village and Milano Santa Giulia Ice Hockey Arena. Test events, training exercises, and simulations are planned to ensure smooth operations.

Sustainability and legacy are key.

All venues will use renewable electricity, and 20,000 items from Paris 2024 will be re-used. Urban regeneration, mountain infrastructure upgrades, accessibility improvements, and community health programmes are already delivering long-term benefits.

18,000 volunteers are currently training, with over 50,000 more involved in community initiatives. Collaborations with 20 universities are creating career pathways, and €5 million has been spent supporting local social and micro enterprises.

The Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games run 6–22 February, with the Paralympic Winter Games 6–15 March. Tickets and hospitality packages are still available, with VISA as the official Way to Pay. visit tickets.milanocortina2026.org/en for more info and tickets 

*****

DOM: The Snow Centre launches a new chapter and becomes one brand

The Hemel Hempstead and Manchester sites are now unified under one name, with a fresh look and a redesigned website to make booking easier than ever.

Visitors can enjoy updated programmes designed to help skiers and snowboarders progress, while the centres themselves have a refreshed, energising atmosphere.

Guests can expect the same expert instructors, snow conditions, and warm welcome — just with new energy and a modern look.

The message is simple: same great experience, now under a refreshed brand and ready for the next chapter. Check out thesnowcentre.com/ for both Manchester and Hemel 

******

DOM: Italy enforces mandatory Helmet use

Italy has become the first European country to mandate ski helmets for all ages, effective from the 2025–26 winter season. This nationwide law, introduced under Sport-Decree 96/2025, requires all skiers, snowboarders, sledders, and tobogganers to wear CE-certified helmets in all ski resorts across the country. Violators face fines up to €200 and potential suspension of their ski pass for up to three days 

Previously, helmets were only mandatory for minors under 18. This expansion to include adults aims to enhance safety ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. While other European nations have varying regulations—such as Austria's state-specific rules and France's recommendations—Italy's comprehensive approach sets a new standard for slope safety 

As the new season approaches, skiers and snowboarders planning trips to Italy should ensure they comply with this regulation to avoid penalties and contribute to a safer winter sports environment.

ROB and DOM discuss!!

Freddy Carrick-Smith to compete in WC GS Solden 

SNOW AND WEATHER

DOM: We haven't officially got a snow and weather section just yet Rob for obviously reasons but what are your thoughts about this winter?

ROB: It’s going to be epic Dom

DOM: well obviously - i mean it has already got off to a good start right?

ROB: yes true, i mean we both know that doesnt mean too much but it’s nice to see fresh snow in the Alps and it means the early glacier skiing will be good. 

DOM: it is looking dry and sunny across the Alps for the next two weeks…

ROB: yes looks it’s way too early but last season was pretty solid and i think we have a pattern of weather that drives early season snowfall, followed by a lull in the weather, more snow in January - and we just need those temps to stay cold, followed by another lull and then late season dumps.

DOM: sounds about right, but of course that could be totally different this winter!

ROB: yes very true Dom, but all i’ll see is, i predict snow will fall in the Alps from November until April this season - is that okay?

DOM: good enough for me - right let’s move onto gear 

GEAR

Alright, let’s dive into some of the standout gear for this season — some really fun stuff in here.

For outerwear, check out the Montec Moss W Women’s Ski Jacket. This one’s cropped and styled with a modern cut, but it’s not just about looks. You’ve got 20K waterproofing, a helmet-compatible hood, snow skirt, vents, media pocket, lift pass pocket — the works. It comes in 18 colours, with insulated or shell options, and it’s made with recycled, bluesign-approved fabrics. £195 gets you a jacket that’s both sustainable and mountain-ready.

Glove-wise, the Reusch Alena R-Tex XT Ladies’ Glove hits a really nice balance of style and performance. You’ve got Primaloft Gold insulation for warmth, Reusch’s own breathable waterproof membrane, and even a teddy fleece lining inside for that cosy feel. The Touch-Tec means you can use your phone without pulling them off — and they look good too. All that for about £60.

Switching to sunglasses, the Dakine Sector Eyewear is a bit of a crossover piece — £125, with polarised lenses to cut glare, a wrap-around frame that stays in place, and lightweight TR90 construction. Good for skiing, snowboarding, or just après beers in the sun.

For off-slope style, the Rossignol Kitsi Pom Hat at £55 is pure alpine chic. Navy knit, cosy fleece band inside, and a big faux-fur pom on top. Warm, comfy, and stylish enough for both resort and city life.

Back to skis — the K2 Blur XT, brand-new for 2025. £750, and it’s a frontside machine. Smooth turn initiation, quick edge-to-edge, but still damp and stable when things get chopped up. They’ve used some clever materials — flax, bio resin, recycled Titanal — alongside FSC-certified cores, so it’s a bit greener too. Unisex, in sizes from 149 up to 177.

For gloves with a bit of freeride flair, the Hestra Fall Line 3-Finger Glove in flame red is a classic. £140, cowhide leather, G-Loft insulation, removable liner — it’s warm and tough. Not fully waterproof, so think cold, dry snow days, and being a 3-finger “lobster” glove, you get warmth with a bit more dexterity than a mitten.

Lastly, bindings — the Head Attack Hybrid, £400–£450 depending on the model. This is basically the ultimate freeride binding for people who want to go anywhere. You can swap between an Alpine unit and a Touring unit, so one binding covers resort days and backcountry missions. No compromises, just all-mountain freedom.

DESTINATION GUIDE

Where are we heading this winter 

ROB:  Crans-Montana, Grindelwald, Les Gets and Les 3 Vallees

Champoluc in Italy for the ski test. Maybe Japan - but i say that every year

Dom:

Andorra

Winter Park  Steamboat Copper Mountain Arapahoe Basin

Park city deer valley sunpeaks whistler

Hakuba Cortina/Hakuba Norikura – 1 Day Tsugaike – 1 Day Iwatake – 0.5 – 1 Day Happo – 1 Day Hakuba47・Goryu – 1 Day Sanosaka・Kashimayari・Jigatake – 1 Day or 1.5 Days

Pretty awful winter now i look at it 🙂

END:

Reference awards again - Travel Media Awards Monday October 13 Pan Pacific Hotel, London 

Dom

Next episode rob 

we have our special feature top resorts you need to visit this winter…super exciting as that includes resorts from jackson hole to drei zinnen, sun peaks to jungfrau,  andorra to baqueria and more!  So thats super exciting 

Rob

and we will be nailing some super hotels for you to look up this winter, like the alex in zermatt, love that place super quirky, the brewster mountain lodge in banff, thats a lovely hotel right in the centre of town, the edgewood in tahoe, thats a cracker and villa licht in kitzbuhel to name a few,  plus plenty more of our top picks for this winter.