The Ultimate Guide to Snowboarding Backcountry Gear.
Winter weather brings about many outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice climbing, among many others. But for those looking to truly experience some stunning alpine terrain, nothing beats snowboarding the backcountry. Like any backcountry adventure, however, you should always come prepared with the proper safety and backcountry gear. From the basics such as an avalanche airbag pack to specialized backcountry snowboard equipment, having the right setup for a day out will make for an easier venture and more fun on the mountain.
With that in mind, this guide will provide a complete run down of the essential snowboarding backcountry gear. So, if you plan on spending some time outside the groomed slopes, keep reading to find out what you need to hit the backcountry with confidence and stay safe while doing so.
Avalanche Airbag Pack and Safety Gear
Whenever you venture off trail and into the backcountry, one of the most important pieces of gear you can have is an avalanche airbag pack. This is a type of backpack that, when triggered, inflates behind you with the hopes of altering your buoyancy in the event of an avalanche. Someone who is caught on the surface of a snow slide will have a much better chance of being rescued if they have a higher profile and can be seen by rescue crews. While no one likes to think about the possibility of an avalanche occurring, in some areas of the backcountry it can be quite common and having the appropriate safety equipment will only help if a situation arises.
In addition to an avalanche airbag, some other essential safety items you should never leave behind when heading out for the day include:
• A shovel with a built-in avy probe
• A multi-tool, like a roamer
• A powder shot
• A first aid kit
• An avalanche transceiver
• A GPS unit or map and compass
Snowboard and Bindings
The right choice of board and bindings is essential for backcountry snowboarding. The best board for this type of terrain is typically an all-mountain or freeride snowboard. These boards are typically a directional shape with reverse camber and are designed to perform great in powder, as well as hard pack snow. When it comes to bindings, you want to choose a set that is lightweight but still provides enough response to help you initiate turns.
Backcountry-Specific Clothing
When choosing clothing for the backcountry you want to keep a few things in mind. First, you will want the insulation to be lightweight and packable so that you have the option to add or remove layers quickly and without taking off your backpack. Second, be sure the clothing is waterproof and breathable. You don’t want to get too hot and sweaty on the climb up, but having a waterproof/breathable material will also help to keep you dry in the event of wet conditions.
Accessories for Snowboard Backcountry
Finally, you’ll want to make sure you have the right accessories to maximize your backcountry snowboarding experience. A few of the essentials include:
• Glacier glasses to protect against the sun’s bright glare.
• Merino wool base layer and other thermals to keep you warm and dry.
• Ski poles specifically designed for backcountry.
• Ski skins to help with traction on the uphill.
• Snowshoes for off-snow terrain.
• Avalanche safety gear to help ensure your safety
Conclusion
No matter your level of backcountry experience, having the right gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable journey into the unknown. From avalanche airbag packs to specialized snowboard and backcountry clothing, following the guidelines outlined in this guide will ensure you have the setup and equipment needed for a successful trip into the backcountry. Regardless of if you’re looking for a quick under the radar jaunt or if you plan to explore some serious terrain, with the right gear, you’ll be ready for anything the mountain can throw at you. Happy exploring!
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