G3 Alpinist Climbing Skins

The Alpinist Skins have been part of G3’s lineup for decades (see our previous review here) and have received some nice improvements for this season. Both the revised Alpinist Ski and Splitboard versions retain the proven tip and tail connectors—featuring the articulating metal tip clips and the rubber tail strap with a camming tail connector. These connectors are intuitive, durable, and work seamlessly across a wide range of ski shapes and widths.

The major update is G3’s new Channel Bond Adhesive, which introduces a vertical glue-free channel down the center of the skin. This clever design allows skins to separate easily when stored glue-to-glue, reducing the need for skin savers—makes transitions quicker and less frustrating. G3’s updated adhesive formula feels tacky and tough yet easier to handle than past versions.

• Universal Skins - reliable versatility for everyday use.
• Grip Skins – with more nylon for superior traction.
• Glide Skins – a mohair–nylon blend that strikes a great balance between glide and durability.
• Speed Skins – lightweight mohair-dominant skins built for cold, dry touring conditions.

Here you can see the tail clip cams of the previously available Minimist Skins (on the right) versus the more robust Alpinist version on the left.

The tip clips on the Alpinist (on the right) remain unchanged compared to those found on the Minimist (on the left) —if it ain’t broke don’t fix it.

The tip and tail clips of the Alpinist Climbing Skins are a simple design that simply works.

The new Channel Bond Adhesive has no glue in the centre of the climbing skin which allows for easier removal from your ski or board.

Comparing the adhesive of the Minimist Skins (on the left) to that of the Alpinist (on the right), you can see that the glue is much more robust.

For ounce counters, G3 also continues to offer the Minimist Skins—a lighter, more streamlined option. Check out that review here. And, for splitboarders, the complete Alpinist line of climbing skins is now available for you as well.

• Self-aligning hands
• Non-toxic adhesive
• Water Repellency
• 16cm length adjustability
• -30°C/-22°F adhesive
• Trim tool included
• Designed in Canada
• Made in the USA

The mohair–nylon blend was the deciding factor in why I chose the Alpinist Glide Skins over the other options, as it suits the mixed conditions we see here in B.C.’s Interior Mountains. The nylon provides reliable grip, durability, and moisture management, while mohair improves glide efficiency—making them ideal for long approaches with variable terrain and snow conditions.

While G3’s older adhesives drew mixed reviews, I haven’t had any issues in past seasons, and the new Channel Bond Adhesive feels like a significant step forward. It’s just as tacky, more robust, and much easier to separate—for those who’ve ever had to wrestle skins apart when transitioning, this is a big improvement.

The tip connectors remain my favourite on the market: simple, sturdy, and compatible with pretty much any ski. The tail clip’s adjustment requires some finesse, but are super easy to use once set for your ski length.

Trimming the new Alpinist Skins takes a slightly modified approach, but G3’s Trimming Tool keeps the process foolproof and efficient. Before trimming a new pair of G3 skins, be sure to check out this quick how-to video.