An apparatus for attaching a climbing skin to a ski or snowboard is provided as are kits and climbing skins joined to such apparatus. Included is an apparatus for attaching a climbing skin to a front portion of a ski or snowboard, the front portion including ski sides which converge toward a front end of the ski or snowboard, the apparatus including: (i) opposing first and second holders, each holder being configured to receive one of the converging ski sides; and (ii) a connector between the first and second holders which includes at least one hinge. Also included is a kit including the apparatus and a climbing skin. Also included is a climbing skin having a fastener, the fastener including a portion which is retained between layers of the skin and one or more portions which extend from the skin for attachment of the skin to a ski or snowboard.