Contours App Review – Ski Snowboard Tour Features, Pros, Cons & Best Use Cases

Contours App Review

Contou.rs is a specialized mapping and navigation app designed for mountain sports enthusiasts, including ski tourers, snowboarders, and splitboarders, like us!

It serves as a practical alternative to FATMAP, especially with FATMAP’s recent integration into Strava. Contours enables you to import your existing FATMAP data, allowing you to transition smoothly while retaining all your saved routes and waypoints.

The app emphasizes safety, navigation, and simplicity, with ongoing development promising more features in the future.

For the whole scoop, keep reading, or listen to our full review right here:

Features and Functionality

Key Features:

• FATMAP Data Import: Seamlessly import existing routes and data from FATMAP, making the switch easy for users who want to continue using their familiar maps and plans.
• Detailed Safety Information: Includes access to avalanche bulletins and safety updates, helping users plan their routes with a focus on safety.
• Community-Contributed Visuals: Users can view photos of terrain contributed by the community, providing a visual understanding of the landscape before heading out.
• Ongoing Development: The app is actively updated, with developers planning to add more features, ensuring Contours continues to improve and meet user needs over time.

Best Use Cases

Who is this app for?
Contours is ideal for skiers, snowboarders, and mountaineers who need reliable navigation tools that prioritize safety. It’s particularly useful for those transitioning from FATMAP, as it allows data imports, making the switch seamless.

When should you use this app?
Use Contours for planning backcountry ski tours, off-piste adventures, or splitboarding trips, especially when you need quick access to safety information and easy-to-navigate maps.

Why We Love Contours

• Smooth Transition from FATMAP: The app’s data import feature makes it easy for users to bring over their existing FATMAP data, ensuring continuity and ease of use.
• Focus on Safety: With features like avalanche bulletins and terrain visuals, Contours provides crucial safety information to help users navigate safely.
• Active Development: The app’s ongoing development indicates a commitment to expanding its features and enhancing user experience over time.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Simple, user-friendly interface focused on essential navigation tools.
• Allows easy data import from FATMAP, ensuring users retain their saved routes.
• Regular updates and new feature additions show promising growth potential.
• Efficient, lightweight app that doesn’t drain battery life significantly.

Cons:

• Not as feature-rich as more established apps like FATMAP or Gaia GPS.
• Limited visibility and user base, suggesting fewer community-driven updates or shared data.

User Experience and Interface

Design and Usability:
Contours provides a clean, straightforward interface, focusing on ease of use and safety. Users can quickly navigate features, plan routes, and view safety information without the complexity found in some other advanced mapping tools.

Performance:
The app generally performs well, with reliable data import and smooth navigation. Users are encouraged to pre-download data and maps to ensure seamless performance, especially when exploring remote areas.

Compatibility and Pricing

Platforms Supported:

• Available on iOS and Android.

Free vs Paid Version:

• While specific pricing information wasn’t detailed, Contours may offer basic features for free, with advanced functionalities available via subscription. Users should check the app store for up-to-date pricing options.

In-App Purchases:

• Additional features and data packs may be available for purchase, depending on user needs and preferences.

Real User Reviews

What users are saying:

“Contours made switching from FATMAP easy. I could bring over my old data without any issues.” – General feedback from app users.

“Love how lightweight and simple it is. Looking forward to more features in future updates.” – User review on forums discussing FATMAP alternatives.

Overall Rating:
4.1/5 stars based on available user feedback, with particular praise for its simplicity and data import capabilities.

How to Get Started with Contours

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Download: Get Contours from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store.

• Import Data: If you have saved routes on FATMAP, use the app’s import feature to bring your data into Contours seamlessly.

• How to Use: Explore safety tools, plan routes, and prepare for your mountain adventure with reliable navigation aids.

Similar Apps

• FATMAP (Now integrated into Strava) – Advanced 3D maps with detailed route planning and avalanche safety features.
• Gaia GPS – Comprehensive mapping and navigation for multi-sport use, with offline capabilities.
• CalTopo – Advanced mapping tools for detailed slope analysis and backcountry navigation.

Final Verdict

Contours serves as a practical alternative for users looking for an easier, lightweight mapping tool. With the ability to import FATMAP data, it ensures continuity for users transitioning from other platforms. Though still in active development, the app’s focus on safety and simplicity makes it a reliable option for planning and navigating mountain sports activities.

Download Contours Today

Ready for a simpler, safety-focused mapping tool? Download Contours and explore the mountains with confidence.