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The Best Backcountry Snowboarding Gear: Go Off-Track with Confidence.
Are you a serious backcountry snowboarder looking to take your runs off-track? Snowboarding in backcountry requires specialized gear to get the most out of your experience and stay safe. Whether you are a newbie to the slopes or an experienced pro, investing in the right backcountry snowboarding gear is essential for a enjoyable and safe off-track experience.
So, how do you choose the best backcountry snowboarding gear? Here is a breakdown of the key items of gear you will need and our top picks for the best backcountry snowboard gear on the market.
Snowboarding Outerwear
Your outerwear plays a huge role in your performance and safety. When choosing your snowboarding outerwear, opt for protective, insulated, and waterproof garments that feature breathability and wick away moisture to keep you dry, warm, and comfortable.
Here are the essential pieces of outerwear you will need:
Snowboarding Jacket
The snowboarding jacket should be your go-to item of outerwear on the slopes and in the backcountry. Look for a jacket that is insulated and waterproof and created specifically for snowboarding. This way, you get the maximum protection and comfort in cold, wet weather.
Snowboarding Pants
Opt for snowboarding pants with plenty of technical features and waterproof shell, lined with a moisture-wicking inner fabric. For extra comfort and protection, look for ones with an inner zip boot gator, leg vents and snow cuffs.
Base Layers
In cold weather and in highly active situations such as backcountry snowboarding, base layers are important for moisture management and breathability. Look for ones made from lightweight, synthetic materials that wick away moisture and provide a layer of warmth.
Mid Layers
On top of your base layers, you’ll need mid layers for additional warmth. Opt for items featuring synthetic insulation, fleece, and down fill.
Head & Face Protection
When you’re snowboarding in the backcountry, you need to protect every part of your body. Head and face protection should be your first priority.
Helmet
Helmets should be high on the list of backcountry snowboarding essentials. Look for a natural fitting, lightweight, and well-ventilated helmet with audio native compatibility, adjustable retaining system, and Goggle Retention System.
Goggles/Sunglasses
Goggles or sunglasses are necessary. Look for a pair with anti-fog technology and adjustable lenses that are suitable for all weather conditions.
Gloves
Gloves are a critical piece of backcountry snowboard gear. Look for insulated and waterproof gloves made with a combination of synthetic and natural materials, designed for snowboarding.
Snowboarding Boots
Snowboarding boots are hugely important for your comfort and performance. Look for boots with an integrated ankle lacing system and a mid-stiff flex and good padding.
Snowboarding Bindings
Snowboarding bindings connect your snowboard to your feet, which means your bindings are an essential component of your setup, so choose wisely. Look for a pair of bindings with buckles, soft straps, and adjustable heel straps.
Snowboard
No set of backcountry snowboarding gear is complete without a snowboard. Look for a board that is suitable for the terrain you plan to ride. If you are mostly riding in the woods, look for a board with a directional twin, rocker shape, slightly stiffer flex and good edge grip.
Snowboard Bag
And finally, don’t forget a snowboard bag or snowboard backpack. It’s a great way to transport your snowboard, bindings, boots, and other items you may need.
The Best Backcountry Snowboarding Gear
Now you know which items of gear you will need, let’s look at the best backcountry snowboarding gear on the market:
Arc’teryx Zeus Jacket: The Arc’teryx Zeus Jacket is a fully waterproof snowboarding jacket crafted with Gore-Tex® Pro fabric. It features a lightweight construction, mobility-enhancing features, full pit zips and ample insulation for high-output days.
Arc’teryx Stingray Pants: The Arc’teryx Stingray Pants are designed for backcountry snowboarding and feature waterproof/breathable N80p-X GORE-TEX® fabric, two thigh pockets with waterproof zippers, and a fit and articulation that reduces bulk and improves mobility.
Patagonia R1 Pullover: The Patagonia R1 Pullover is lightweight, thermal pullover with a Polartec® Power Grid fleece lining that eliminates moisture and allows improved ventilation and breathability.
Salomon Radiant Insulated Jacket: The Salomon Radiant Insulated Jacket is a lightweight women-specific jacket with Primaloft® insulation and a DWR finish for extra waterproofing and wind protection.
SmartWool Merino 250 Baselayer Long Sleeve: The SmartWool Merino 250 Baselayer Long Sleeve is a classic lightweight mid-layer with a tailored fit and comfortable flat-locked seams. It is made from merino wool that naturally regulates your temperature, keeps you dry and warm, and minimizes odor.
Arc’teryx Rho AR Zip: The Arc’teryx Rho AR Zip Top is a synthetic mid-layer with Coreloft™ insulation and a soft inner face fabric that wicks away moisture and keeps you comfortable.
Head & Face Protection
Smith Lowdown XL Goggles: The Smith Lowdown XL Goggles are designed for backcountry snowboarding featuring an adjustable strap, tough injected-molded polycarbonate frame, and cylindrical Carbonic-X Lens with Fog-X anti-fog technology.
Smith Variant Brim Helmet: The Smith Variant Brim Helmet is a low profile snowboard helmet designed for all-mountain performance, featuring 21 vents, Koroyd® liner and adjustable BOA® retention system.
Gordini Free Range II Gloves: The Gordini Free Range II Gloves are lightweight insulated gloves with a waterproof microfiber construction and Mega Loft insulation.
Snowboarding Boots
Burton Hail Snowboard Boots: The Burton Hail Snowboard Boots are designed for backcountry and park riders and feature a low-profile Vibram® outsole and GripLite backstay for enhanced board control. The Speed Zone Lacing System offers precision fit and warmth.
Snowboard Bindings
Burton Cartel EST Snowboard Bindings: The Burton Cartel EST Snowboard Bindings feature a full-length baseplate and Elimag™ with Heel Hammock design that ensures foot stability and control. The Heel Hammock also eliminates heel slippage and provides unmatched heel feel.
Snowboard
Lib Tech T.Rice Pro C2BTX Snowboard: The Lib Tech T.Rice Pro C2BTX Snowboard is the perfect board for backcountry snowboarding, designed for float and stability in powder, with a wrapped and tapered back/sidecut for added edge control.
Snowboard Bag
K2 Deluxe Snowboard Bag: The K2 Deluxe Snowboard Bag is a great way to transport your gear, with a padded removable bolster bag, an interior organization compartment, and adjustable straps.
Choose the Best Backcountry Snowboarding Gear
Whether you are a beginner or a pro, choosing the best backcountry snowboarding gear is essential for boosting your performance, staying safe and having the best experience possible. We hope our breakdown of the essential gear and our top picks for the best backcountry snowboarding will help you make the right choice.
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