An absolutely beautiful, bodacious, info-filled book covering everything anyone would need to know about backcountry skiing has come to North America.

Recreation Outfitters Inc. (ROI), the Vancouver BC-based distributor of Swiss-made Movement Skis, has been awarded the exclusive North American distribution rights for the book, Free Skiing – How to Adapt to the Mountain.

Free Skiing is an essential for big mountain riders – intended to be a complete reference to skills and techniques necessary for safe and enjoyable ski mountaineering. Divided into topical sections, each including explanatory illustrations and photos, Swedish author and accomplished mountain guide Jimmy Odén shares his vast knowledge of big mountain riding in this comprehensive tome.

Each chapter, with headings such as weather, first aid and snow and avalanches, begins with an engaging personal tale relating to the topic. The advice is clearly explained and laid out and the simple diagrams are easy to understand.

There’s also a glossy section of incredible ski photography from some of Europe’s best lensmen, accompanied by interesting, if somewhat random, ski mountaineering facts.

“Very well written. The book is a must read for anyone who wants to explore the backcountry and spend more time in the alpine in winter,” said Jayson Faulkner of ROI. Go to www.roirecreation.com for more.