The Best Snowboarding Gear for Ski Touring: Everything You Need to Ride.
Are you looking to explore the backcountry on a ski touring trip? Whether you are a seasoned pro or just starting out, the right snowboarding gear is essential. Ski touring brings with it its own unique challenges and requires specialized equipment to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. In this blog post, we will be examining some of the best snowboarding equipment for ski touring, to help you make the most of your next backcountry adventure.
Ski touring is often viewed as one of the harder winter sports, and for good reason. Ski touring demands a high level of physical skill and endurance, meaning that it is important to choose the right equipment to make your adventure safe and enjoyable.
When choosing snowboarding gear for ski touring, you need to take into account several different factors. Firstly, you will want to consider the weight of the item. You will be carrying your equipment with you for the duration of the tour, so it is important to make sure that it is lightweight and easy to transport. Secondly, you need to think about the materials used.
Your snowboarding clothing and equipment should be waterproof and windproof, since these conditions can often be encountered in the backcountry. Breathability is also an important factor, as it will help you to stay dry and comfortable as you explore the trails. Lastly, it is important to make sure that your equipment fits correctly and is comfortable to wear.
We have compiled a list of some of the best snowboarding gear for ski touring. Whether you are a freerider, a freestyle rider or an alpine tourer, we have got the perfect equipment to make sure you make the most of your backcountry experience.
Snowboarding Jacket
The first item of snowboarding gear you will need for ski touring is a snowboarding jacket. A good snowboarding jacket should be lightweight and waterproof, whilst providing warmth and protection from the elements. Look for a jacket that is packable and has pit zips, so you can keep cool as you climb.
Snowboarding Trousers
Your snowboarding trousers need to be just as hard-working as your snowboarding jacket. Look for a pair of waterproof, breathable and windproof trousers, with reinforced knee and seat sections. This will help to keep you warm and dry, whilst also providing extra abrasion protection if you fall.
Snowboard Boots
It is essential to choose the right pair of boots for ski touring. Look for boots that provide a good level of ankle support, whilst also being stiff enough for long traverses. Make sure to find boots that offer a good fit and make sure that you take the time to break them in before you make your backcountry descent.
Snowboard Bindings
Snowboard bindings need to be lightweight and able to withstand the rigors of backcountry snowboarding. Look for bindings that are supportive and have good cushioning, as this will help to protect your feet against bumps and vibrations. It is also important to ensure that your bindings are compatible with your boots.
Snowboard
When selecting a snowboard for ski touring, you need to make sure that you choose a model that is suitable for the terrain. A directional board is a great choice for backcountry riding, as they provide good floatation in powder. Freestyle boards can also be a great choice, as they can offer amounts of pop and agility over varied terrain.
Ski Poles
You need to make sure that you choose the right ski poles for your ride. Look for poles that are designed for touring, as these can often be lightweight and adjustable, with ergonomic grips. Make sure to get poles that are of the correct height for your body, as this can help to save you energy during your ascent.
Avalanche Safety Gear
Finally, before you set out on your backcountry adventure, you need to make sure that you are well kitted out with some avalanche safety gear. Investing in a set of avalanche safety equipment is essential for ski touring, and can be the difference between life and death. Make sure to include an avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe in your bag, as these will help you to locate and dig out any buried victims in the event of an avalanche.
As you can see, there are many considerations when choosing the best snowboarding gear for ski touring. Remember, the right equipment can mean the difference between not only fun and comfort on the mountain, but in some cases, life and death. Spend the time to make sure you have the right gear before your next backcountry adventure and you’ll be sure to have an amazing experience.
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