The Best Snowboarding Gear for Backcountry: Using the Right Gear for the Job.
For those passionate about snowboarding, nothing beats the thrill of snowboarding in the backcountry. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out, or an experienced rider looking to explore the wilds of nature, having the best snowboarding gear for backcountry can make all the difference.
Backcountry snowboarding requires specialized gear, and selecting the right gear requires a careful analysis of the type of terrain you’ll be tackling. With a variety of snowboarding gear available, it can be difficult to determine which pieces of equipment should occupy prime real estate in your riding pack. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best snowboarding gear for backcountry riders.
Snowboarding Jacket
When it comes to keeping warm in backcountry snowboarding, there’s nothing more important than having a good quality snowboarding jacket. It’s the key piece of equipment in your backcountry setup. Look for a jacket that’s lightweight and breathable, but still able to provide insulation and protection from the elements. Wearing a waterproof and windproof jacket can be a game changer for those cold, windy days in the backcountry.
For added protection, look for jackets with a hood, and pay attention to the breathability of the fabrics used in the jacket. High breathability ratings allow excess body heat to escape, so you don’t overheat while climbing to the top of the peak. Make sure it isn’t so tight that it’s uncomfortable when you bob and weave while snowboarding. Look for a jacket that fits comfortably all the way up your neck until the hood.
Snowboarding Pants
Complement your snowboarding jacket with a pair of snowboarding pants designed for backcountry riding. As with a snowboarding jacket, look for pants that are lightweight, breathable, and waterproof, providing warmth and essential protection for your legs and body.
When it comes to the fit, look for pants that are tight in the leg area, but are roomier in the thigh and bottom. This will give you extra flexibility and comfort, without sacrificing insulation and wind protection. Look for pants with full-length side zippers to make putting on and removing your pants easier when you need to go to the bathroom or remove layers.
Gloves
When you’re snowboarding in backcountry, your hands take a pounding. You’ll need gloves capable of keeping your hands warm and dry, while still providing enough flexibility and grip to hold onto the edges of your snowboard.
Look for gloves that are waterproof and windproof, while still providing breathability and flexibility. Look for gloves that are insulated with synthetic fill, as these may be slightly more breathable than down-filled gloves. Synthetic-filled gloves also tend to be machine-washable, making them easy to clean after a long day of riding. If you handle your snowboard with your bare hands, look for gloves with longer cuffs and wrist straps to keep snow from getting inside.
Helmet
When you’re snowboarding in the backcountry, safety should always be your number one priority. A good quality snowboarding helmet is the best way to protect yourself from potential injuries. Look for a helmet that’s designed for snowboarding, not skateboarding or mountain biking.
When choosing a snowboarding helmet, make sure it’s fully certified and fits properly. Look for helmets with adjustable straps and adjustable liners that fit snugly to your head. The helmet should also feature vents to allow heat to escape and to keep your head cool while riding.
Goggles
To ensure that your vision is clear while snowboarding in the backcountry, a good pair of snowboard goggles is essential. Goggles not only protect your eyes from cold wind and sun, they also add an additional layer of protection between your eyes and branches, stones, and other debris on the slopes.
When choosing snowboard goggles, look for models that offer 100% UV protection, as this will protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Also, look for goggles with lenses designed for varying light conditions, as this will ensure you can see in spite of poor visibility. Snowboard goggles should be comfortable and fit snugly to your face, keeping out snow and wind without hindering your vision.
Snowboard Boots
Snowboard boots are probably the most important part of your backcountry setup. Snowboard boots provide support and structure for your feet, allowing you to make precise turns and keep your board steady in deep powder.
When choosing snowboard boots, make sure they fit snugly and are comfortable. Look for boots with a stiffer flex if you like carving or hard charging down steep runs. For riders who focus on freestyle riding, look for a softer flex, as this will provide better shock absorption and improve your range of motion while performing tricks.
To ensure a good fit, take the time to try on several different boots before making a purchase. Boots should fit snugly when you tighten the laces, but there should still be some space in the toes.
Snowboard Bindings
Snowboard bindings are the link between your boots and your snowboard. The right bindings will give you control and support, enabling you to make more precise turns and more accurately control your speed.
When choosing bindings, pay attention to the overall stiffness of the binding. Stiffer bindings allow for more precise turns, while softer bindings provide more cushioning and shock absorption. An adjustable binding is best for most riders, allowing you to customize the level of stiffness for your individual riding style.
Also, consider the overall size of the bindings. The ideal size should match the size of your boots, ensuring that your bindings are in line with your feet, without putting too much pressure on your heel or toes.
Backpack
A good quality backpack is essential for carrying your snowboarding gear while backcountry riding. A good quality backpack should have enough space to hold all of your gear, while still being lightweight and comfortable to wear.
Look for backpacks with plenty of pockets, adjustable straps, and padded panels to keep the pack from rubbing against your back as you ride. Adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit of the backpack, so it sits snugly against your body and doesn’t move around while you’re riding.
When considering the size of a backpack, look for one with enough room to carry your snowboard and all of your snowboarding gear. The ideal size should be around 25-30 liters, but if you’re carrying more gear, look for a larger size.
Shovel & Probe
A snow shovel and probe are must-have items when riding in the backcountry. A snow shovel and probe are used for avalanche rescue in the event of an emergency. The shovel is used to dig into the snow, while the probe is used to locate deep areas of snow where a buried skier or rider might have become trapped.
When choosing a shovel and probe, select models that are lightweight and easy to carry in your backpack. Most snow shovels are collapsible, so they won’t take up much room in your pack. Make sure the probe you choose is strong and durable, with a deep enough length for avalanches.
Clothing Layers
Snowboarding in the backcountry requires layers. Layered clothing is essential for trapping in your body heat, while keeping you dry and comfortable. Multiple layers allow you to add or remove garments to keep you at the perfect temperature, no matter how the temperature on the mountain changes.
The three main layers of clothing for backcountry snowboarding are the base layer, mid layer, and outer layer. The base layer is the layer closest to your skin and should be made of a breathable and moisture-wicking material, such as synthetic or wool. The mid layer is designed to provide insulation and should consist of a lightweight, insulating material such as down or synthetic fill. The outer layer is what ties everything together and should provide waterproof and windproof protection while still being breathable.
Conclusion
Backcountry snowboarding is an adventure of a lifetime, and having the right equipment can make all the difference. With the right backcountry setup, you’ll be ready to tackle the toughest terrain with confidence. From jackets and pants to helmets and boots, make sure you choose the best snowboarding gear for backcountry and you’ll be ready to explore the world’s wildest places.
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