Is There Snowboard Outerwear that Can Survive Avalanches?
When you’re out on the slopes, you want to stay warm and dry. But if you’re in an area prone to avalanches, you need more than just basic snowboard outerwear. You need gear that can withstand the power of a massive avalanche and keep you safe. In this article, we’ll explore the options for snowboard outerwear that can survive avalanches.
Avalanches are a significant danger to snowboarders and other winter sports enthusiasts. These natural disasters can occur suddenly and without warning, burying people alive under tons of snow. It’s vital to have the right gear to protect yourself in case of an avalanche.
One of the most important pieces of equipment for avalanche safety is the avalanche airbag backpack. These backpacks have a trigger mechanism that deploys airbags around the backpack wearer’s shoulders and head. The bags help displace the snow and keep the backpacker afloat, increasing their chances of survival.
There are several snowboard outerwear options designed specifically to work with avalanche airbag backpacks. These jackets and pants have features like a removable back panel to allow for the backpack and breathing apparatus, reinforced fabric on the shoulders and elbows to withstand wear and tear while carrying a backpack, and pockets for the trigger mechanism and other gear.
One such option is the Black Diamond Helio Active Shell, a snowboarding jacket designed to withstand the rigors of backcountry skiing and snowboarding. The jacket is made of GORE-TEX fabric, which is both waterproof and breathable, and has a fully sealed design to ensure you stay dry.
In addition, the Helio Active Shell has reinforced fabric on the shoulders and sleeves to minimize wear and tear when carrying an avalanche airbag backpack, making it more likely to survive an avalanche. The jacket has an adjustable hood and cuffs to keep out the cold, and the zippers are waterproof to prevent water from seeping in.
Another quality avalanche snowboarding jacket is the Ortovox Guardian Shell. The jacket is made of a 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro fabric, which is durable, waterproof, and breathable. The reinforced fabric on the shoulders and back make it an excellent choice for avalanche airbag backpack users, and the design includes pockets for carrying all your necessary gear.
The Ortovox Guardian Shell’s design uses a two-color concept that contrasts different materials in high-stress areas like the shoulders and elbows. The design helps increase durability and limit wear and tear. The jacket has zippers under the arms for ventilation and a removable snow skirt, which can come in handy when riding in deep snow.
If you’re looking for avalanche-specific snowboarding pants, the Mammut Nordwand Pro HS is an excellent option. The Mammut Nordwand is made of GORE-TEX Pro fabric, which is waterproof, breathable, and durable. The pants feature an integrated bib to increase warmth and protect from deep powder snow. It also has pockets for a beacon, a shovel, and probe, helping to keep all essentials in one place.
The Mammut Nordwand Pro HS features reinforced fabric on the lower legs, knees, and ankles to prevent wear and tear while wearing avalanche airbag backpacks. The pants have two-way side zippers for ventilation and a waistband with adjustable suspenders, allowing the pants to fit snuggly and stay in place.
When you’re looking for gear to survive an avalanche, always remember to look for options that work seamlessly with an avalanche airbag backpack. Proper snowboard outerwear can make all the difference in an emergency situation, helping to keep you safe and warm, and dry.
In conclusion, there is snowboard outerwear designed to withstand avalanches, and it’s imperative to invest in these types of materials if you’re an avid backcountry winter sports enthusiast. Brands like Black Diamond, Ortovox, and Mammut all provide excellent options for avalanche-specific jackets and pants. The crucial aspects to look for in these types of garments are reinforced fabric on the shoulders and knees, waterproof zippers, and pockets for gear like a beacon, probe, and shovel. Wearing gear that’s designed for avalanche airbag backpacks will increase your chances of survival in the event of an avalanche. Stay safe out there!
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