Snowboarding Gear for Ski Touring: The Best Equipment for an Unforgettable Adventure.
For lifelong memories and breathtaking views, ski touring provides the perfect adventure in the great outdoors. To truly make the most of the experience, however, it is essential to select the right snowboarding gear.
From metal skis and boots to base layers, helmets and bindings, snowboard equipment for ski touring can be overwhelming and difficult to decipher, especially for newcomers in the sport. To make sure you show up to the slopes with all the necessary accessories, this guide outlines all the snowboarding gear necessary for a successful ski tour.
Essential Snowboarding Gear For Ski Touring
Metal Skis
When choosing metal skis for a ski tour, it is vital to consider two components: weight and rigidity. You want a ski that is light enough to carry comfortably on the uphill section, yet can also handle changes in terrain and powdery conditions during the downhill ride.
While aluminum and carbon fiber skis are lightweight, they are not always the best options for ski touring as they lack rigidity and often break if they come in contact with hard surfaces. On the other hand, wooden skis can be heavy and can also break if not maintained correctly.
The ideal skis for ski touring are those made from metal with a core of either titanium, steel or aluminum. These are lightweight and rigid, providing the perfect balance between downhill performance and uphill comfort.
Ski Boots
Ski boots are an essential piece of safety gear for any ski tour, as they provide the support and protection needed for the slopes. Ski boots should be comfortable and allow freedom of movement in the ankle and calf area. It is best to select a ski boot with a flexible sole, as this is more suitable for a variety of ski touring routes.
Base Layers
Base layers are the foundation of your ski touring outfit and need to be lightweight and breathable, whilst providing enough warmth to withstand the harshest conditions. Choose a base layer made of either wool or synthetic materials to keep warm throughout the tour. Avoid cotton, as this will not keep you warm and may be uncomfortable when wet.
Pants and Jacket
Ski touring pants and jackets must also be able to withstand all temperatures and weather conditions, from extreme heat to freezing temperatures and low light.
Hard Shell Pants and Jacket
The outermost layer of your snowboarding gear should be a hard shell pants and a jacket, both designed to protect against wind and snow while allowing air to flow freely. Make sure the jacket and pants fit snugly and do not restrict your movements.
Helmet
A ski helmet is a must for any tour, as it not only provides protection against hard surfaces but also against extreme temperatures and poor visibility. Look for helmets with adjustable size and ventilation.
Goggles
Goggles are also a crucial piece of equipment for a successful ski tour. Look for a pair of goggle designed with a wide field of view and anti-fog technology to make sure you can have a clear view of the terrain and obstacles in all types of weather.
Boots
Boots are the final piece of the puzzle when it comes to snowboarding gear for ski touring. Look for boots that provide good arch support and a waterproof upper section. Boots should also have lacing systems that can be easily tightened and loosened according to the terrain.
Complete Your Ski Tour Look with Snowboarding Accessories
After selecting all the necessary safety gear for a ski tour, it is time to add a few accessories to complete the look. Look for insulating long underwear, thick gloves, a hat and a neck warmer made of wool and synthetic materials. For the downhill ride, bring along ski poles and ahigh-visibility ski vest.
Conclusion
Whether you are a beginner or experienced ski tourer, selecting the right snowboarding gear is essential to ensure a safe and successful tour. Find metal skis, ski boots, base layers and an outer shell designed to withstand the worst weather conditions. Finally, add a few snowboarding accessories such as long underwear, a ski vest, gloves, and hat to complete the look. With the right gear, ski touring can be a truly unforgettable adventure.
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