The Ultimate Guide to Snowboarding Gear for Backcountry.
Snowboarding is becoming a more popular adventure sport every year, but venturing into the backcountry requires a bit of preparation. Having the right snowboarding gear is essential to make sure you stay safe and have the best experience possible. Those who are new to the sport need to purchase the basics while more experienced riders may want to consider additional gear to start exploring more varied terrain. Here is the ultimate guide to snowboarding gear for backcountry.
First, let’s start with the basics – a snowboard and boots. Make sure to find the right board for your experience level and style of riding. Freestyle snowboards are good for those who love to spin, jump and ride the terrain park. All-mountain riders usually look for a board that offers a balance between freestyle and freeriding. Freeriding and powder snowboards are designed specifically with extra stability to handle the most challenging conditions. Depending on the type of board you choose, you might need to use a different type of boot. As an example, stiff boots for freeriding and flexible boots for freestyle and all-mountain riding.
Other than the board and boots, you’ll need bindings. The bindings should fit the board and boots, but should also fit your riding style. A stiffer and more responsive binding is ideal for those who want to ride in high speeds. Softer bindings are best suited for park and all-mountain snowboarders. Make sure to test the bindings with your boots on before you make a purchase decision.
One of the most important pieces of gear is the outer layer, or the mountain shell. Mountain shells are designed to protect the rider from the cold and wind, while allowing them to remain active. Jackets should be waterproof and breathable, while pants should fit snug while still allowing freedom of movement. Different styles of shells are available depending on your preferences, but most feature a full hood and insulated lining. Look for jackets and pants with plenty of pockets for storing your small items.
Snowboarding requires some accessories. The first accessory is a helmet. Every snowboarder should wear a helmet to protect their head and neck in case of an accident. Make sure the helmet fits snugly, but also allows you to move your head and neck freely. Eye protection is also a must – goggles are the best option, since they’ll protect your eyes from wind, snow and UV rays. You’ll also want to wear gloves or mittens, which should be made from waterproof material.
Once you have all the basic gear, you can start thinking about accessories for more challenging backcountry terrain. Avalanche transceivers are must-have for anyone exploring the backcountry, since these devices help search and rescue teams in case of an avalanche. A shovel and snow probe are also recommended, because these tools can be used to search for a buried rider or dig out a stuck vehicle. An avalanche airbag is an additional piece of gear that provides extra protection in case of an avalanche.
Finally, you’ll need a way to pack all your gear when you’re on the go. Snowboard backpacks are designed to distribute the weight of the gear evenly, while being waterproof and breathable. Look for a backpack that offers plenty of storage and is constructed with durable materials. Depending on your needs, you may want to store a snowboard repair kit, first aid kit, snacks, additional clothing and more.
With the right gear, snowboarding in the backcountry can be an exhilarating and enjoyable experience. Make sure to take the time to research and choose the right snowboarding gear to ensure you stay safe and have an amazing time.
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