The freerando event not to be missed!

The BANZAG returns for its ninth edition and promises an unforgettable day for freerando enthusiasts! See you on March 29, 2025 at Luz Ardiden for a unique competition that combines performance and fun in the mountains.

The story

It's the early 2010s, and we're beginning to hear talk of a new way of off-piste skiing that would bring together all those who explore the mountains off the beaten track. 

Until then, we had the freeriders with their big fats on their feet, their airbags and their helmets tearing up faces with big curves, and the hikers with their matches, their bananas and their little goggles trying to squeeze as many turns as possible into a descent.

However, while they may not have the same aspirations, they are driven by the same passion: the mountains.

It was at this point that manufacturers began to imagine wide, light skis, so that marathoners on the peaks could at last have a little fun on the way down, and big skiers could exceed 200m of vertical drop per hour when looking for new slopes to ride.

This is the advent of freerando, and it's not just a marketing concept designed to dust off ski touring, which has become so outdated, but a real trend that will take experienced skiers further and further away from marked ski areas.

All brands of skis, boots, bindings and accessories are in the race to lighten the load, but there is still a clear divide between those who focus on effort on the way up and those who focus on pleasure on the way down.

That's when ZAG decided to break down these barriers and bring everyone together around an event called the Banzag, the first edition of which took place in Chamonix in 2013. The concept is simple: a timed DVA search to find out if your buddy can count on you in case of trouble, a Rando ascent with a compulsory passage for carrying skis on the pack, also timed, and finally a descent to be tackled by each skier at his or her own level, during which the line chosen, style and control will be assessed.

The event was an immediate success, with skier-mountaineers, seasoned free riders and even Sunday hikers all enjoying a good time in the mountains.

Editions followed one another in Chamonix for six years, then in the Pyrenees since 2020, and this year the event will take place in Luz Ardiden on March 29!

The concept: freerando and conviviality

The BANZAG is a competition timed on the way up and marked on the way down. To win, you need to be a complete skier: fast on the ascent and fluid on the descent. But beyond the challenge, the main idea is to share a good time with other enthusiasts.

Open to all, the event brings together freeriders, hikers and skiers from all horizons. The aim? To see randonneurs freeride with skis under 80mm and freeriders drooling on the way up! Who will combine style and speed to win the BANZAG 2025?

A fast-paced program

The day promises to be intense and festive:

BANZAG 2025 program - Luz Ardiden

8:30: Welcome of participants at the resort

8:45: Riders Meeting - Welcome Pack + breakfast

9:15: First start on the uphill sector (600m D+)

10:30 : Departure of the last competitors

1:30: Convivial lunch at altitude

3:30 : End of equipment testing

4:00: Prize-giving ceremony

6:00 : Secret evening in a mysterious spot...

An accessible and secure event

BANZAG registration costs 39 euros, including :

Ski pass

Breakfast and lunch in a high-altitude restaurant

Access to the partners' village

Free testing of ZAG 2025 skis and partner brand equipment

In terms of safety, the event takes place under the supervision of professionals. Luz Ardiden takes this opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of off-piste safety.

Ready to take up the challenge?

Whether you're a freerando expert or a thrill-seeking amateur, the BANZAG is for you. Places are limited to 100 participants + a few special guests!

Book your place and join us for a day of riding, sharing and fun!

March 29, 2025 - Luz Ardiden: get ready to combine style and speed on the slopes of the BANZAG!

Link to website: https://www.banzag.com/