The Best Snowboarding Gear for Backcountry Exploration.
As an avid snowboarder and outdoor enthusiast, you know that the right gear can make all the difference when it comes to backcountry snowboarding. With the right equipment, you can conquer the toughest terrain, navigate challenging terrain, and take your snowboarding experiences to the next level.
Selecting the right snowboarding gear for your backcountry needs can be daunting with the variety of styles and brands available. To ensure that you’re outfitted with the best possible gear, we’ve assembled this guide to the best snowboarding gear for backcountry exploration.
Snowboard
When it comes to selecting a snowboard for your backcountry needs, you should ensure that the board is light and able to respond to your needs at a moment’s notice. Your board should have a good mix of flexibility and stiffness so it can handle the toughest terrain while still providing you with the control you need.
For backcountry exploration, you should look for a snowboard with a directional shape and a setback stance. This ensures that you get the most out of your experience as well as reduce the chances of getting stuck in deep or treacherous powder. Look for boards with a medium flex rating and ample amounts of edge area so you have better control and efficacy when navigating such terrain.
Bindings
The bindings you choose will depend heavily on your riding style and the terrain you’re exploring. Bindings should be lightweight, yet supportive and responsive. There are bindings with straps, which are quite popular due to their versatility, and step-in bindings, which are ideal for more aggressive riders.
When selecting bindings for your backcountry needs, opt for a model that fits your riding style. Freestyle bindings provide the wearer with improved flexibility, while all-mountain bindings offer greater control and stability due to their stiffer construction. If you’re new to backcountry snowboarding, look for a model that has a highback and boots compatible with the binding system to ensure that your descent is free of surprises.
Boots
If you’re tackling the backcountry, it’s essential that you outfit yourself with the right boots. While boots for resort riding generally feature soft soles and lightweight foam insulation, you’ll want to look for an insulated and ruggedly constructed pair for the backcountry.
Look for boots with a stiffer design that will offer the support you need for maneuverability and terrain variations. Boots with external lacing systems are ideal for backcountry riding as they offer improved fit, comfort, and response. It should also be noted that many insulated soft shell boots also have excellent cushioning and ventilation systems to keep your feet dry and comfortable while exploring the backcountry.
Goggles
No snowboarding kit is complete without a good set of goggles. Goggles are essential for any kind of snowboarding, especially when venturing off-piste. You’ll want a pair of goggles with a wide field of vision and an anti-fog coating to keep your visibility clear in all kinds of conditions.
Look for goggles with interchangeable lenses to accommodate a range of light conditions. For example, a yellow tint lens is optimal for low light conditions and flat lighting, while a copper tint is best for bright, sunny days. Goggles with UV protection and a mirrored finish will keep your eyes safe from any glares bounced off the snow.
Clothing
To ensure that you stay warm, comfortable, and stylin’ on your backcountry expeditions, you’ll need the right clothing in addition to your board and gear. Your outerwear should provide enough protection from the elements, yet still be flexible and lightweight so you’re not weighed down and saddled with bulky garments.
Look for moisture-wicking clothing made from fabrics like polypropylene or merino wool. You’ll also want to opt for insulating layers and mid-layers made with breathable fabrics that have a great warmth-to-weight ratio. Check out hooded jackets and pants with removable foam knee pads and visors to ensure that you stay warm and not have anything restricting your movement.
Accessories
No backcountry excursion is complete without the right accessories. These include a backpack, skinning tools, avy gear, and ski repair kit.
Backpacks designed for backcountry use are typically insulated, waterproof, and have anatomical designs for weight distribution, comfort, and convenience. Look for packs with straps for snowboards and skis, carrying sleeves for shovels and probes, and separate compartments for water and snacks.
Skinning tools such as skins, ski poles, and kick-turn systems are essential for your ascent as they’ll ensure that you can make it to the top with ease and efficiency. Avy gear such as beacons, shovels, and probes are crucial for your safety, and you should always make sure to have them with you when exploring the backcountry. Finally, a ski repair kit might just come in handy after a long day in the backcountry, as it contains all the necessary tools and materials to repair any chipped or broken boards.
Conclusion
With the right snowboarding gear, your backcountry excursions will be both enjoyable and safe. When selecting snowboarding gear, you should choose a snowboard, bindings, boots, goggles, clothing, and accessories that fit your riding style and terrain needs. With the right equipment in your arsenal, you’ll be sure to conquer even the toughest of powder fields. Enjoy your time in the backcountry and happy snowboarding!
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