This 55th episode of The White Out ski Podcast, hosted by Dom from In The Snow Magazine and Rob from Snow.Guide, centres on exploring Alberta, Canada as a world-class ski destination. Sponsored by Ski Independence, the podcast also covers early winter snow conditions, the latest ski industry news, new-season gear highlights, and destination recommendations:
Skiing in Alberta
The main feature focuses on Alberta’s exceptional ski scene, with guests Karen and Ross from Ski Independence offering expert insight. They discuss how easy it is to reach Alberta — flying directly to Calgary and driving under two hours to Banff — and the unique charm of its key resorts: Banff, Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, and Jasper (Marmot Basin). Alberta’s appeal lies in its long ski seasons, striking national park landscapes, and abundant wildlife. The area offers something for everyone — quiet slopes, luxury lodges like the Fairmonts, and authentic town life. Families will find flexible lift passes, excellent ski schools, and off-slope fun from ice skating to sleigh rides. A dedicated Alberta special episode is coming next week.
Ski Industry News Highlights
Latest updates from around the ski world. Verbier (Switzerland) kicked off the season early thanks to solid early snowfalls, while Baqueira Beret (Spain) expanded its network to 170 km of pistes. Legendary skier Dan Egan’s new adventure film Return to the Silk Road is premiering on YouTube, tracing ski routes through Central Asia. The Freeride Republic initiative launched to promote mountain safety and avalanche awareness. Tennis star Jannik Sinner partnered with Gucci on a new luxury ski collection, and ski icon Candide Thovex collaborated with La Clusaz on a signature black run. Dom and Rob also paid tribute to the late journalist Minty Clinch, celebrated for her adventurous spirit and decades of ski writing.
Gear Spotlight (in partnership with Ellis Brigham)
The gear segment, in collaboration with Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports, showcases standout winter products. The Salomon Shift Alpha Boa 130 boots combine freeride power with touring flexibility using the innovative Boa closure system. The Picture Sign Jacket impresses with eco-friendly materials, full waterproofing, and stylish performance for women. The POC Fornix MIPS JJ helmet, developed with freeride legend Jeremy Jones, offers premium safety and ventilation. Finally, the Oakley Flight Deck M goggles feature panoramic views and advanced Prizm lenses for sharp contrast in all light conditions. Together, these products reflect this season’s focus on sustainability, comfort, and technical excellence.
Destination Guide – Austria for Families
Spotlight on Austria’s best family-friendly ski areas, emphasizing the country’s charm, accessibility, and excellent infrastructure. St. Johann in Tyrol stands out for its welcoming atmosphere, traditional alpine feel, and great ski schools. Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis offers a vibrant, sun-soaked plateau perfect for families, with world-class children’s facilities and a friendly vibe. SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser–Brixental provides massive interconnected terrain (275 km of pistes) while maintaining authentic Tyrolean character and leading sustainability efforts through renewable energy use. Finally, St. Johann im Pongau (Salzburg) combines convenience — just an hour from Salzburg city — with scenic beauty, strong family programs, and plans to go climate neutral by 2025–26. Together, these resorts represent Austria’s blend of tradition, comfort, and innovation.
