Exploring the Best Snowboarding Gear for Backcountry .
Are you a snowboarding enthusiast planning for a thrilling adventure in the backcountry? It’s important to be prepared for snowboarding in the backcountry, since the needs can be quite different to what you may be used to on regular slopes. You should have the right gear on hand before you embark on your journey, as it’s essential to stay safe and maximize your time and experience.
If you are ready to venture off-piste to the backcountry, then this guide to the best snowboarding gear for backcountry is just what you need. Read on to find out more about the essential equipment you should have when heading out off-piste snowboarding.
Snowboard
Let’s start with the snowboard as your first choice of gear. Picking the right board for backcountry snowboarding is essential if you want to ride powder. As the terrain and snow conditions can change rapidly in the backcountry, it’s important to choose the perfectly-suited board for the challenge.
A great all-around board for difficult terrain is a splitboard. A splitboard is a snowboard that has been engineered to split down the middle to create two distinct planks. The two halves can be split and maneuvered like normal skis for going up the mountains.
A splitboard will also provide you with the stability and agility of a snowboard for your downhill trips. If your primary reason for snowboarding is to explore the backcountry terrains, then it’s definitely worth investing in a splitboard.
Bindings
Next up are the bindings, the essential part of your snowboard setup. As a rule of thumb, always try your bindings with the boots you are planning to use, particularly in the backcountry.
For backcountry use, you should also consider buying a tech binding, which affords extra flexibility and maneuverability. Tech bindings, also known as “pin” bindings, come with a plate that has pins that fit into slots in the binding plate on your boards. This setup allows you to enjoy the stability and control of skiing with the agility of snowboarding.
If you like to go fast in the backcountry, then stiffer and highback bindings are a good fit for your style, as they will work better for carving and popping off jumps. You should also bear in mind that taller highback binding cups offer more leverage when turning and additional flexibility.
Boots
For optimum control, always opt for boots that are a good fit and that are flexible enough to maneuver your boards. Since comfy boots are essential for a productive and safe day in the backcountry, it is essential to opt for the right fit and quality.
For backcountry riders, more technical and insulated boots are a better fit. Cushioned, technical inner liner with features such as articulated cuffs, zip closure, and dual layer construction provide the ultimate control and comfort.
They will also keep your feet warm for the entire day and help to keep the snow out, which is particularly important in a colder and wetter backcountry.
Safety Equipment
The main safety rule in the backcountry is to always prepare for the worst. Safety should be your top priority here, so be sure to pack all the necessary safety equipment.
A transceiver and probe are essential tools in the backcountry, as they help you to find a missing person when an avalanche occurs. For this reason, always carry these two items with you.
A first aid kit should also be part of your gear, as it could be useful in an emergency. Also, don’t forget to pack some energy bars and water, to keep your energy levels high throughout the day.
For extra caution, you can also pack an avalanche airbag and an avalanche shovel. The airbag is designed to inflate and help you float on top of an avalanche and the shovel can provide you with a way out in case you are trapped beneath a debris pile.
Conclusion
Heading off-piste for a snowboarding adventure in the backcountry is an incredibly exciting experience. But it’s essential to be prepared for the different terrain and conditions that you may come across, by investing in the right gear before you set out.
In this guide, you’ve discovered the top snowboarding gear for backcountry adventures. Now that you know what to look for, you can easily select the best gear for your needs and preferences. Finally, always remember the importance of safety in the backcountry, so don’t forget to pack your safety gear.
Happy snowboarding!
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