The Best Snowboarding Gear for Backcountry: Get Equipped.
This winter season, backcountry snowboarding is more popular than ever. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced snowboarder, exploring the wild but beautiful terrain of the backcountry is a great experience. If you don’t take the time to properly equip yourself with the right snowboarding gear, however, you’re likely to experience a bit of a shock. To keep you safe, warm, and comfortable during your backcountry ride, it’s important to invest in some quality snowboarding gear.
In this guide, we’ll be discussing the best snowboarding gear for backcountry riding. We’ll look at all the must-have items so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing your equipment.
To start with, let’s look at boards. You’ll need a versatile board that can handle any snow conditions you may encounter in the backcountry. We suggest going with a hybrid ‘splitboard’ that is designed specifically for backcountry conditions. Splitboards are made in two halves which can be attached together for skiing and split up for climbing, creating a lightweight board more suited for backcountry than most regular snowboards.
In terms of bindings, a stiffer binding is the best option for backcountry riding as it will provide better control in a range of conditions. We recommend opting for a binding that has an adjustable highback and forward lean which will enable you to quickly change your settings depending on the type of snow you encounter. Also, look out for “Step-in” bindings that offer an easy way to get in and out of your bindings.
Boots are arguably the most important piece of snowboarding gear, as they provide you with the power to control your board and the support you need when landing big jumps. Look for a boot with a good flex rating – this will give you precise control and response when turning. Make sure that whatever boot you choose fits snugly, as loose footwear can put you at a greater risk of injury.
Finally, you’ll also need to think about protection. Invest in a snowboard helmet that provides good visibility and offers plenty of coverage. Also, it’s a good idea to wear elbow and knee pads when tackling big jumps as they’ll help to absorb the impact in case you land badly. A good pair of snowboarding gloves is also essential, as they’ll keep your hands protected from the cold and from scrapes and falls.
In summary, investing in the best snowboarding gear for backcountry riding is essential for a safe, enjoyable time out in the wild terrain. Keep the snow conditions you’re likely to encounter in mind and choose a splitboard for maximum maneuverability, bindings with a good forward lean, a well-fitting boot, a strong helmet, and protective gear when tackling jumps. With the right gear and preparation, you’re sure to have an epic backcountry ride this winter!
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