Snowboarding Touring Gear: A Guide to Making the Best Selections.
If you’re looking to hit the slopes to ski and snowboard and want to try ski touring, then you’ll need the right gear for a successful and enjoyable adventure. Ski touring requires special snowboarding equipment and apparel tailored for more challenging terrain and conditions. From backcountry skiing to an extreme downhill ride, this guide will explain what snowboarding touring gear you should look for.
Snowboarding is an adrenaline-filled, challenging and thrilling activity, especially when it’s done in the backcountry. Ski touring requires extra safety precautions and specialized gear. Below are the essential categories of winter gear you need to choose when preparing for the slopes.
Snowboard
Choosing the right snowboard should be your top priority. There are several factors that come into play when selecting a board, such as your skill level, preferred terrain and body size, among others. Generally, boards intended for backcountry and free-ride skiing should have a medium to long length and a wide waist width – this will provide stability and flotation in powdery snow.
If you are an advanced snowboarder who loves to hit steep slopes and deep powder, a directional twin or directional board with a tapered shape would be best. For beginners, it’s recommended you choose a board with a twin shape, which is centered and symmetrical with separate nose and tail shapes. This type of board allows for easier turning and is mainly for entry-level riders.
Bindings
Your bindings should offer enough support and comfort for hours spent touring on snow. Highback bindings provide a lot of support for toe and heel side turns as well as landing jumps. There should be a sturdy construction made of stainless steel, aluminum or carbon fiber that is durable. Snowboarding bindings should also be adjustable and feature quick-release buckles to make it easier to pop out of the bindings when you encounter any difficulty.
Boots
Grip and stability while navigating on snow is essential. When choosing your ski touring boots, prioritize a precise fit and comfortable design. You need boots with a stiff flex that provide stability and maximum power transfer between your board and your feet. The right boots will also keep your feet warm during that extreme cold weather.
Helmet
Safety should always be the number one priority while snow-touring, and wearing a helmet is the most important safeguard you can take. It’s advisable to go for a helmet with a lightweight and flexible design, along with an adjustable lining for a customized fit. Check for vents for ventilation, a chin-guard for more protection and a visor to keep snow out of your eyes. It’s also helpful to look for a furry lining for extra insulation.
Gloves
Gloves are an important winter wardrobe piece to keep your hands from getting chapped and cold. Make sure to grab one with a waterproof, breathable and insulated design that also has an adjustable cinch closure for easy-on and off. Some gloves are also designed with touch-screen functionality so you can take photos and keep connected without having to take off your gloves.
Goggles
Crystal-clear vision is extremely important while navigating snow-touring trails. To protect your eyes from the icy wind, sun and accidentally kicked powder, invest in a good pair of goggles. You should prioritize the optics while choosing your goggle; anti-fog coating, anti-scratch resistant, a wide field of vision, an “over the helmet” fit and a double lens are some of the important features to look for.
Avalanche Gear
If you’re planning to go ski touring in the backcountry, you must be equipped with an avalanche kit to stay safe in the event of an avalanche. Your kit should include an avalanche probe, shovel, beacon and a float airbag. The shovel should have a long handle with a compact blade and should be strong enough to dig and move snow. An avalanche beacon allows you to locate your partner in case he/she is trapped beneath the snow during an avalanche. The avalanche airbag offers additional protection to you and should feature collision protection, neat storage and ergonomic straps.
Clothing
Choosing the right clothing for snow-touring is crucial to keep your body warm in those freezing temperatures and make sure you have the right level of insulation for the activity. Snowboard trousers with waterproof and windproof combinations are great for skiing and snowboarding. Preferred fabrics for layering include fleece, wool and synthetic blends. For your top layer, grab a good snow jacket with a water-resistant and breathable design, some pockets for storing essentials and zippered vents for extra ventilation.
Conclusion
Ski touring requires specialized gear for a successful and safe hiking experience. From the board you choose to the clothing and avalanche gear, this guide should help you make the best selections for a great snowboarding experience. Keep safety at the top of your agenda by equipping yourself with appropriate apparel and safety gear and you’ll be ready to hit the backcountry powder in no time!
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