For all intents and purposes, it’s still high noon as far as summer is concerned. While the AQI here in Bend currently reads 94, let’s call that pretty solid in the “I’d go outside” part of the indices. It’s been hottish to hot, near totally dry, and, sadly, nearby we’ve spawned plumes of eastward-moving smoke. Apologies to those east of here—which is a lot of you. But at this point, calling the weather and daily atmospheric conditions the “new normal” feels dated, since it’s been the norm for more than a minute now.
As this is a reboot piece, let’s set the ball rolling for the new touring season and reminisce a bit. As I wrote the editor’s note for Issue 4 of The High Route journal (coming end of October), I mused a bit on the West’s historic snowpack lows. While the snowpack may have been low, I’d assert, the skiing/riding was not poor. Beyond a side trip to the Tetons and Canada, I was not obsessed with chasing quality snow. I mostly, and happily, toured in the home range and found a few new ways to maintain my stoke. Which also meant that I mostly skied a 170cm length 97mm underfoot ski. I rarely needed float. Yet, a long effective edge was in high demand. Locally, there was little need for beaucoup tip or tail rocker, or a general sense of looseness that is highly desirable for those seeking more free-spirited skis or boards on deeper days. It turns out that during a year when the spigot is somewhat clenched tight, it’s remarkable what we can make do with. (A “no snow is bad snow” and a “tools not jewels” mindset helps.
