Buying Guides

Choosing the right climbing harness doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Knowing the different parts which make up the harness, and which is more suitable for the activity you’ll be doing, will help you to understand your needs and make the process much easier.

Ski pants are probably the most underrated part of your on-piste ensemble. Not just there to look great (although they do that, too), chosing the right ski pants will make sure you stay warm, dry and comfortable all day, every day on the mountain.

Your ski jacket is your best friend on the slopes. It keeps you warm in the sub-zero temperatures, protects you from snowfall and wipeouts, and of course, is fundamental to your look. Choosing the right one doesn't have to be a challenge - here are the main things you should be looking out for.

Winter mountaineering can mean anything from hillwalking to technical climbing, and the footwear and equipment requirements are different for every activity.

Scottish winter weather can vary in the space of a single day, so always be prepared for the worst.

If you’re an experienced skier committed to the eternal pursuit of the perfect powder then you definitely need a set of freeride skis in your arsenal. Here are 10 Great Freeride Skis that have everything you need to handle unchartered territory.

Whether you are a seasoned backcountry skier, hiking to ski an untouched face or you are simply just starting to explore the backcountry in order to find a new adventure in mountains, one thing is for sure, your outerwear needs to stand up to the challenging conditions found in the backcountry. To help you be more prepared we've put together a little list of brands we think you should look at when choosing your next jacket or pants.

If you love nothing more than skiing groomed runs and working your way around the piste map, then the right pair of piste skis will help you to make the most of every turn. Here are 10 Great Piste skis that are gracing the slopes this season. 

Interchangeable lenses are becoming a common feature on more and more goggles. Light levels can change very quickly on the mountain and the effect that has on visibility can be dramatic.

If you’re skiing or snowboarding this December, forget the stocking because it's all about what will fit into your boot bag, and we've got plenty of gift ideas to choose from whether you're looking for something for yourself or your loved ones.

Have complete peace of mind when you buy ski boots at Snow and Rock. Not only is it cheaper and safer than hiring, our equipment is the latest in ski technology, letting you relax with the knowledge that boots and skis are always correctly fitted. Our trained technicians care about you and your family’s skiing experience.

Insulation is essential to keeping warm in the outdoors, and is usually worn as a mid-layer, or as the outer layer in dry, cold climates. It works by trapping the warmth that our bodies create to maintain our body temperature, but this can be achieved in a variety of ways. 

The call of fresh untouched powder, pristine pillow lines, and majestic tree runs, is all the motivation you need to start exploring the backcountry but with the added risks and danger its important to have the right equipment, and know how to use it. This guide will take you through the backcountry basics, what it means, and what gear you need to get started. Our stores have a wide range of backcountry equipment, so if in doubt, visit us in store and get expert advice from our knowledgeable staff.

While there is no perfect formula or perfect height, the right ski poles can improve your performance, giving you a more responsive and enjoyable ski. Bear in mind that sizing will be personal to you, too long or heavy for your skiing style and they’ll likely get in the way, too short and you’re more likely to position yourself too far forward, throwing you off balance.