Headphone Use While Skiing/Boarding

What's everyone's opinion on using headphones while skinning, climbing, skiing in the backcountry? I personally feel, the sound of nature and the potential encounters with other backcountry travelers should be adequate entertainment. I would want to be able to hear what's going around me, especially in high hazard areas. I say leave the headphones behind when it comes to doing anything in the mountains.

I say keep and open mind and don't be so worried about what other people are doing.
If somebody want to break up the monotony of a long skin up to Muir listening to music and then slash some turns to AC/DC on the way down.... good for them.
As long as the are not affecting me or putting me in danger..... so what.

If I was with a group and in difficult and dangerous terrain where communication was important ,I would insist that the headphone user switch it off and pay attention ... but in safe terrain... rock on.

You think the sound of nature and interaction with other backcountry users is adequate.... others will feel different and their opinion no less valid.

If your going to bring music at least bring a boombox to share your music!

audio books are another option.

its my preference when touring with partners headphones be left home. I can tolerate headphone use though as long as safety and communication are not compromised, but that person is often left out of any decision making that is on the fly.

I sometimes do it on the lifts - but I also like to chat people up, especially if I happen to be with a patrol or some other cool-looking guys. And I'm always chatting with family, if we're together.

In the bc - if I were on something totally low angle, boring and safe - I can certainly enjoy some music or a nice audio book...

But in general (while I mostly try to go to 'safe' places) I listen to music or books only when I snuggle in the liftie shacks for some rest. During the rest of the time - I try to be aware of what's going on around me

Cheers
Ivo

I have tried listening and riding and it usually seemed like the beat of the music never coincided with where I wanted to make a turn. I have more fun focusing on the snow.

I had a long time ski buddy that often used headphones. He seemed to enjoy it but it was a major pain in the ass for me. Since it was impossible to communicate, it severely impacted our ability to ski together. If we were in area and he skied off without saying anything, I would just go my own way and see him another day. We eventually stopped skiing together, the headphones were only one of many reasons leading to a split.

I don't mind if someone uses headphones, I just don't want to tour with them while they do.