Ski mountaineering experience and good physical health are essential and must be backed up by a health statement. Participants must be able to master techniques of alpine skiing in off-piste terrain (ascent and descent).

Ski mountaineering is a technical and often strenuous activity for experienced ski mountaineers who wish to climb higher peaks and achieve wider viewpoints. Ski mountaineers climb and ski (if necessary, in rope parties) in sometimes steep, deeply snow-covered, glaciated, and potentially dangerous alpine environment.