Buyer’s Guide: Backcountry Ski Gear Essentials For Human Powered Skiing

Venturing into the untouched wilderness, backcountry skiing offers a thrilling escape from the crowds. Our comprehensive guide details the essentials needed for any daring skier to conquer the untamed slopes and feel truly alive. From specialized gear to essential safety equipment, we’ve got you covered for your next adrenaline-fueled adventure. Updated for 2024!

Overview

Conquering the untamed wilderness on skis – whether you call it ski touring, AT skiing, or randonee – is a rapidly growing trend. The allure of venturing into the uncharted backcountry calls to thrill-seekers and nature-lovers alike.

The thought of breaking free from the city and immersing yourself in nature, surrounded by pristine snow, may be tantalizing. But where do you even begin? It all comes down to two key elements: education and gear. In this article, we’ll cover the crucial gear you need for your next backcountry adventure, while also pointing you towards resources to learn how to stay safe in the wild.

As you dream of your next ski adventure, consider the rugged terrain that will test your skills and push your limits. Will you be conquering steep backcountry slopes or shredding through powdery sidecountry trails? The type of skiing and location you choose will greatly impact the gear you’ll need. A lightweight ski-mo/randonee racing setup is perfect for fast ascents, but a resort-friendly sidecountry rig is better suited for quick downhill runs. Remember, the key to a memorable ski trip is finding the perfect balance between agility and enjoyment. Don’t let outside influences sway your decision, stay true to your own goals and embrace the thrill of the unknown.

Backcountry Skiing can be the stuff of legends. For the effort, a good backcountry adventure will deliver untracked lines, deep powder, and ample memories. With a wide variety of ski videos out there, from Warren Miller to TGR, showing off untracked glory deep in the mountains, nothing quite stokes the winter fire like backcountry skiing. While growing in popularity and widely embraced as a test piece for committed skiing adventurers, backcountry skiing comes with a fair number of serious challenges. Two of the most dangerous challenges include the potential for serious injury far from help and avalanches. So, what is backcountry skiing? Why are we obsessed with it? And what kind of gear does the average skier need, at a minimum, to feel prepared enough to give it a shot?

Prepare for your thrilling ski tour with these essential gear items. But remember, nothing can replace proper training and experience – sign up for an avalanche safety course and regularly practice using your beacon before venturing into the exciting backcountry ski terrain.

Warning: This is part of a series on backcountry skiing and only encompasses a brief overview of the sport and breakdown of essential gear. For tips and best practices for planning a backcountry skiing adventure, please refer to our Guide to Planning a Backcountry Ski Adventure. For ANYONE traveling into avalanche territory, consider enrolling in an Avalanche training course by AIARE; it absolutely save lives.

Table of Contents:

Article Navigation: Click on any of the listed items in the table of contents below to jump to that section of the article. Similarly, clicking on any large, white section header will jump you back to the Table of Contents.

1. Overview
2. Backcountry Skiing: What it is and why we love it
3. Gear Breakdown
   • Skis 
   • Skins
   • Bindings
   • Boots
   • Poles
4. Avalanche Preparedness
   • Beacon (AKA Avalanche Transceiver)
   • Shovel
   • Probe
   • Combo Packages
   • Radios
   • Backcountry Ski Packs
   • Emergency Essentials
   • Advanced Mountaineering Gear
5. Essential Terms
6. Conclusion

Mountaineers ski touring in alpine landscape.

Backcountry Skiing: What it is and why we love it

Backcountry skiing is exponentially more dangerous than resort skiing, but there are many reasons people take the risk.

Before the invention of the ski lift, skiing involved human powered ascents. If you wanted to ski, you had to earn your turns. The modern backcountry skier takes that concept and uses it to access areas where ski resorts might never exist, such as remote and mountainous terrain either federally protected (like a national park or wilderness area), or in an area that doesn’t see enough human traffic to warrant infrastructure creation.

People don’t generally start with backcountry skiing; they tend to graduate into it after learning how to ski at a resort. This distinction doesn’t always hold true, but generally speaking, resort skiing occurs first, followed by a growing interest in terrain that lies outside the resort boundaries. Backcountry skiing unlocks access to millions of acres of mountainous terrain and does so while providing all the other benefits of wading into remote areas, like a sense of adventure, a stellar workout, and a deeper connection to the outdoors. For some, the effort needed to access these areas is enough to turn them off to the idea; for others, it’s one of the many reasons to get excited about it.

Two big reasons to get into backcountry skiing are potential and powder. Ski resorts, while expansive, only cover a fractional part of the larger mountain ranges where they are located. If a resort has a bad snow year, there isn’t a whole lot you can do in-bounds to rectify that. Backcountry skiing opens up all sorts of terrain where conditions may be much, much better.

Another reason to get into backcountry is the prohibitive cost of resort skiing, which seems to increase every year. At the height of the season, a single day ticket for large ski resorts routinely tops $200. During these times, you may be wondering why you spent thousands of dollars on rentals, accommodations, lift tickets and resort purchases only to have to wait impatiently in lift lines while thousands of other people clamor for a spot. Backcountry skiing tends to alleviate the rat race. Granted, the upfront investment necessary to attain quality backcountry gear is nothing to laugh about. However, when that investment is made, you’ll be set for years as long as you take care of your gear and find time to get out there.

To sum up, we love backcountry because of the untapped potential for winter nirvana, enhanced connection with nature, adventure, and the sense of pride involved in earning our turns. We also love the cost breakdown over time. One expensive year of gear purchases will last the average backcountry skier up to five years, while the cost of regular resort skiing can top that within one or two winters.

Guided Backcountry Ski & Snowboard Trip Packages

Whether you’re a beginner looking to get your AIARE 1 Avalanche certification, or an intermediate to advanced backcountry user looking for guided trips with famed traverses and epic big-mountain descents, we’ve got you covered.

Find Your Perfect Backcountry Ski & Snowboard Trip

Gear Breakdown

Let’s take a deep dive into some of the essential gear components needed before attempting a backcountry adventure.

Skis

With the right gear, any ski can tackle the backcountry slopes. But true adventurers know the value of lightweight alpine touring skis, designed specifically for conquering both uphill and downhill terrain. These specialized tools make trekking through the rugged backcountry a breeze, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the thrill of exploring untouched powder and steep descents.

Backcountry, alpine touring, and ski mountaineering skis (often used interchangeably) come in a variety of styles. Some are lightweight and designed for efficient uphill travel and speed, while others prioritize performance in deep powder with their wide dimensions and advanced rocker profiles. Many backcountry skis also have built-in features like notches in the tip and tail for attaching climbing skins. However, these skis tend to sacrifice some abilities on hard snow or durability against impact damage compared to inbounds powder skis. If you don’t plan on spending most of your time hiking for fresh lines, using a “resort” ski may be a better option.

REI Co-op has a helpful article on how to choose How to Choose Backcountry Skis

Black Diamond Helio Carbon 95

Designed for conquering off-piste terrain from the Cordillera Blanca to the Canadian Rockies, the Black Diamond Helio Carbon 95 is a versatile carbon ski. Its pre-preg carbon fiber construction and full-perimeter ABS sidewalls provide improved stability on variable snow, while the lightweight paulownia core makes it ideal for long tours. With a balanced flex and torsional stiffness, the Helio 95 offers reliable and responsive performance on the descent. The early rise in the tip and tail enhances flotation and makes breaking trails easier, and an integrated skin-clip tab on the ABS tail protector keeps your skins secure throughout your journey.

Black Diamond’s Helio Carbon collection features their lightest skis designed for alpine touring. The Helio Carbon 95 Ski is our top choice for tackling all types of snow conditions, whether soft or hard. With a waist width of 95mm, it falls in the middle range of the Helio Carbon collection. The Helio Carbon is designed for ultimate balance in different snow conditions, with a perfect combination of powder and firmer snow. It also features camber underfoot and an early rise rocker, making it easy to handle on slippery couloirs and float through deep powder. The ski itself is constructed using lightweight paulownia wood and pre-preg carbon, resulting in a stiffer but incredibly light ski.

Photo: Black Diamond

Shop Now! Price: $879.95 at Backcountry, REI Co-op, and Black Diamond

Salomon QST Echo 106 Ski

The Salomon QST Echo 106 skis are an evolutionary step forward for the popular QST line, perfect for touring. With a design that incorporates wood cores, basalt fibers, and cork damplifier, these skis are extremely lightweight and excel during ascents on the mountain.

When we are looking for the control, precision, and fun of a QST, but in the backcountry, we click into the Salomon QST Echo 106 Ski. This ski takes the versatile feel of a QST and packs it full of lightweight materials that help us thrive away from the resort. The Karuba core keeps our legs fresh on the skin track, while cork in the tip and tail absorb vibrations as we rip through refrozen zipper crust at the end of the day.

Photo: Salomon

Skins

Skins are either pre-cut or can be cut to fit your skis. They are made of plush material that adheres to the bottom of your skis and prevents you from sliding back down when traveling uphill. This is achieved through their unique ‘nap’ texture, which provides grip in one direction and smooth gliding in the other.

When it comes to skins, there are typically three materials used: mohair, synthetics, or a mixture of both. While synthetics are known for their toughness and strong grip, mohair is prized for its smooth gliding ability and efficiency. However, a blend of the two can provide a happy medium between durability and performance.

To keep a skin attached to your ski, clips at the tip and tail along with a sticky but temporary glue compound are used. While most skins come with universal clips that can attach to any ski, certain pre-cut skins are designed to fit into specific holes or notches on certain models of skis. For skis without a designated skin, it’s necessary to purchase a longer and wider skin than the ski’s widest point (typically the tip) and trim it accordingly. Fortunately, most skins come with a simple trimming tool and instructions for easy customization.

Backcountry has a nice article about choosing and using climbing skins

The ski skin has come a long way from its seal hide origins. They can come pre-cut but will usually require you to cut them to fit your skis. They need to adhere to the entire length of the bottom of your skis: tip to tail. When putting skins on, make sure you attach them slowly and deliberately so as to fix any air bubbles or orientation issues as they come up.

REI Co-op has another helpful article on how to choose, trim and attach ski climbing skins

Backcountry Skier sticking climbing skins on skis in the snow.

Skins will degrade over time, but proper maintenance can increase their lifespan. If your skins have a glue adhesive, NEVER attach the adhesive side to itself, if your skins have an adhesive side that is not made from glue, follow the instructions that come with it. In the spring, when snowpack begins retreating, there may be times when your skins collect dirt and rocks from exposed parts of the trail. A quick maintenance fix in the field is to run the skins along the sharp edges of your skis to scrape the debris off. Debris on your skins leads to less adhesive surface area, which will mean less grip over time.

Black Diamond 135mm Glidelite Mix FL Skins

Designed for long treks and extended ski trips where both gliding and performance are essential, the Black Diamond Glidelite Mohair Mix Skins have been perfected with a progressive plush design that maintains an ideal balance of grip and glide while also increasing flexibility and durability.

The latest version of Black Diamond’s STS Tail hardware reduces weight and size, adding an adjustable length option of 10cm to 20cm that can be easily replaced in the field. With trusted BD Gold Label Adhesive, these skins create a strong bond between skin and ski, allowing you to conquer lap after lap even in harsh conditions. The Glidelite Mix Climbing Skins offer top-notch performance and unmatched freedom on your backcountry adventures.

Photo: Black Diamond

Shop Now! Price: $219.95 at Backcountry, REI, and Black Diamond

Pomoca Free Pro 2.0 Ready2climb Climbing Skins

Equip yourself with the Free Pro 2.0 Ready2climb Climbing Skin from Pomoca. Its hybrid design provides excellent grip and glide, allowing for traction in different conditions without hindering forward movement. As an added benefit, the perfluorocarbon-free hydrophobic treatment prevents any buildup of snow or water on the skins, making your climb more efficient and environmentally conscious. This pair is sure to deliver professional-level performance while also keeping your conscience clear.

Photo: Pomoca

The Price: $229.95 – $239.95 at Backcountry

Pomoca Climb Pro S-Glide Climbing Skins

With dedication in mind, the Pomoca ClimbProS-Glide Ready2climb Climbing Skin is designed for passionate backcountry skiers who venture out in any conditions, whether it’s powdery, icy, or slushy. Its mohair blend provides excellent grip on steep slopes and effortless gliding on flat ridges. Professional-level quality makes this climbing skin a top choice for avid skiers.

Photo: Pomoca

The Price: 209.95 – $239.95 at Backcountry, REI Co-op, and evo

Bindings

Backcountry touring bindings have the ability to release the heel from the ski while skinning uphill, allowing for a more comfortable and natural stride. Once it’s time to ski down, the bindings secure the heel in place. There are various types of touring bindings available: low-profile and lightweight tech bindings that only work with AT boots featuring dimpled tech inserts, frame-style Alpine Touring (AT) bindings compatible with traditional alpine boots, and hybrid bindings that combine elements from both styles.

Tech Bindings: Created by Dynafit and now offered by multiple brands, tech bindings are designed to be lightweight and minimalist. They only work with ski touring boots that have compatible heel and toe fittings. This binding style prioritizes efficiency and weight reduction over adjustability or downhill performance. In the past, these bindings did not include traditional DIN adjustment, but newer options like the Dynafit Beast Binding show a trend towards big mountain skiers embracing tech bindings.

Tech Bindings are the more expensive choice, but offer numerous benefits. Unlike traditional ski bindings, the Tech Binding’s front piece is connected to an AT touring specific boot via two toe pins, allowing for ease of maneuverability uphill. Tech Bindings are also lighter than Frame-style bindings, but are less durable during sustained downhill.

Ski technician using a hand-held screwdriver tool to tweak, twist bindings for ski boots.

Frame AT Bindings: Frame AT bindings can accommodate boots with traditional alpine soles or lugged AT soles. Typically, they consist of a frame that surrounds the boot and can be unlocked for uphill travel, then secured for downhill skiing. While these bindings offer similar performance to standard alpine bindings, their weight is noticeably heavier, making it more challenging on the climb up.

Frame-style Bindings are generally cheaper and more versatile, but heavier. They can attach to regular skiing boots, which alleviates the necessity of buying an AT specific boot. The durability of most Frame-style Bindings means they feel better on the downhill. However, because the Frame-style Binding is larger, it is heavier, and while the open heel allows your boot to come up with each step, it takes more effort to do so.

Hybrid Bindings: Hybrid bindings allow for boots with tech-compatible toe fittings, while also featuring a traditional alpine heel piece. There are now innovative options on the market, such as the Salomon and Atomic Shift bindings, which offer the superior uphill performance of a tech toe piece but also have the ability to convert into a standard alpine toe cup for optimal downhill performance.

Additional features to consider when choosing touring bindings are heel risers or climbing wires, which provide extra support for your heels when climbing steep inclines. Some ultralight tech bindings may not come with brakes, but these can be bought separately. Similarly, add-on crampons can also be purchased for navigating difficult terrain during tours.

Read more about how to choose alpine touring bindings

Note: The categories below were compiled using a variety of sources: Ski Mag, Gear Junkie, Switchback Travel, and evo. I particularly liked the comprehensive comparison charts and graphs presented in this article by OutdoorGearLab and use the ratings below to help frame a pro/con argument for each option.

Tech Bindings:

• Pros: Supreme uphill versatility, generally lighter than frame bindings.

• Cons: Expensive, some features (like brakes) are add-ons, less support for hard-charging descents, many require specific tech boots to synch with. The total cost may turn off any budget conscious shopper.

G3 ZED 12:

Everyone has to start somewhere. If you’re trying to get into backcountry and know you want to chase wild, out of bounds destinations, consider the G3 ZED 12.

Photo by G3.

• Outdoor GearLab Rating (Nicholson I., & Porter J. 2020): Ease of use rating (8/10), Downhill performance rating (7/10), Touring rating (8/10).

• Price: ~$531.00 at EVO and G3

• Weight: 1.97 lbs, total weight for both bindings

• Release range: 5-12

• Cons: Brakes not included, need to buy tech boots, “hidden” costs drive bottom line price up.

Marker Alpinist 12:

An excellent all-around touring binding with three heel riser levels and comfort on the downhill.

Photo by Marker Alpinist.

• Outdoor GearLab Rating (Nicholson & Porter, 2020): Ease of Use (7/10), Downhill Performance (7/10), Touring (7/10).

• Price: $450.00 EVO

• Weight: 1.18 lbs, total weight for both bindings

• Release Range: 6-12

• Cons: No brakes, unproven long-term durability because it is a new product. Should not be used at ski resorts.

Dynafit Speed Turn 2.0:

Not everyone’s made of money, and outdoor costs can skyrocket if you’re not careful. The Dynafit is made for people on a budget, but comes with a few caveats.

Photo by Dynafit.

• Outdoor GearLab Rating (Nicholson & Porter, 2020): Ease of Use (7/10), Downhill Performance (5/10), Touring (7/10).

• Price: $350.00 at REI

• Weight: 1.63 lbs, total weight for both bindings

• Release Range: 4-10

• Cons: Doesn’t come with, and not compatible with a brake option. European made, harder to find retailers stateside.

Frame-Style Bindings

• Pros: Ease of use, Compatibility with alpine boots, Downhill durability.

• Cons: Heavier, not for people who skip leg day, limited lateral movement in the toe piece, which makes zig-zagging up a steep slope difficult and annoying.

With continued advancement in the tech binding category, frame-style bindings may soon be on their way out culturally, but they still pack a powerful punch for the average backcountry skier. The examples below are still available at various outdoor retailers.

Marker Duke EPF:

Photo by Marker Alpine.

• Ratings according to Outdoor GearLab (Nicholson, 12/2018): Ease of Use (7/10), Downhill Performance (10/10), Touring (5/10).

• Price: ~$430 at REI

• Weight: 6 lbs 2 oz, total weight for both bindings

• Release Range: 8-18

Salomon MNC 13 Alpine Touring Binding:

• Rating: 7.6/10 (Evolution Basin, n.d.)

• Price: ~$399.95 at REI

• Weight: 3 lbs 3.5 oz, total weight for both bindings

• Release Range: 4-13

Tyrolia Ambition 12 (BackcountrySkiingCanada.com, n.d.):

Photo by Tyrolia.

• Overall user rating: Dependable and fun for short to medium backcountry tours.

• Price: $430.00 at REI

• Weight: 2 lbs 4.8 oz, total weight for both bindings

• Release Range: 4-12

Keep in mind, although individual options are presented above, it is imperative to understand the pros and cons that each binding option comes with. The selection of good backcountry bindings, based on a personalized profile of what you realistically do in the winter, will help set you up for long term success.

Boots

When you’re hiking or skinning, touring boots have a walk mode that allows the cuff to pivot freely for better range of motion. These boots also typically have heavily lugged rubber soles and a lightweight shell material, making them ideal for gaining altitude. Some features that help reduce weight include a carbon cuff or tongue, minimal buckle design, or honeycomb structure. The latest generation of AT boots are designed not only for climbing but also for optimal downhill performance, even if they may be slightly heavier. This allows for faster movement and less fatigue during longer tours.

When purchasing boots, make sure they are compatible with your bindings. A genuine alpine touring boot typically only works with pin-style tech bindings and certain frame AT bindings that have an adjustable toe height. However, some traditional alpine ski boots can be modified with detachable sole blocks (included with the boots or sold separately) to make them suitable for use with alpine, frame AT, and pin-style AT bindings.

Similar to traditional alpine boots, AT boots come in various flex ratings. While a stiffer boot may provide better performance during the descent, it can also be uncomfortable on the skin track. It’s important to consider whether you value comfort or performance more. Additionally, the range of motion on the walk/ride hinge will also affect the boot’s flexibility while walking or skinning up.

REI Co-op has a helpful article on How to Choose Backcountry Ski Boots.

Poles

The ski poles used in backcountry skiing are typically the same as regular ski poles, but it’s best if they have an adjustable or collapsible design to accommodate different types of terrain. In flat areas, you may want them to be longer (similar to cross-country poles) and when going up steeper slopes, shorter poles may be more suitable.

Once you have all of your equipment gathered, what other items should you pack? It will vary depending on the duration and distance of your journey, among other factors. However, there are a few Avalanche Prepardness Essentials that you cannot afford to leave behind.

Meet The Dogs, Trained To Save Lives In An Avalanche: The avalanche rescue dogs navigate treacherous terrain with heads held high, sniffing out the faintest trace of human scent in the thick snow. With every muscle tense and focused, they race against time to find survivors buried beneath the unforgiving weight of the avalanche.

Avalanche Preparedness

The thought of avalanches is enough to send shivers down anyone’s spine, especially for those who venture into the wilderness during the winter season. In the next section, we will explore the most effective gear for mitigating avalanche risks.

It’s crucial that all members of your group carry essential avalanche rescue gear and know how to use it.

Beacon (AKA Avalanche Transciever)

Beacons are an essential piece of avalanche mitigation. The user wears the beacon close to the body, and the transceiver sends out near-constant radio signals. In the case of an avalanche, party members can switch to “search” mode in order to locate the radio signals coming from a potential avalanche victim. Speed is everything when rescuing fellow backcountry skiers, and Beacons, when used properly, can make the difference between a rescue and a recovery. Check out this informative REI article (Irons, n.d.) for more information on Beacons and how to choose one.

Black Diamond Recon X Avalanche Beacon

The Recon X avalanche beacon includes Bluetooth for easy management from your phone and has a 60-meter range with three antennas for precise searching. Its streamlined design is ideal for backcountry travelers, and the lightweight harness-style pouch allows for quick access during practice or emergencies.

Photo: Black Diamond

Shop Now! Price: $349.95 at REI Co-op and Black Diamond

Black Diamond Guide BT Avalanche Beacon

The Black Diamond Guide BT beacon is the top-of-the-line avalanche beacon in the industry. With a wide 60-meter range, it can mark and scan for multiple burials with ease. Its auto antenna switch ensures the strongest signal is sent, while the Bluetooth capabilities allow for remote management of settings, updates, and battery optimization through a smartphone. The housing has soft-touch contact points for better handling and the beacon also features a self-check function to ensure accurate readings.

Digital Signal Processing technology accounts for any stray beacon signals, making this beacon both reliable and efficient. It comes with a harness-style carrying pouch for comfortable and quick access during practice or emergency situations.

Photo: Black Diamond

Mammut Barryvox S Avalanche Transceiver

The newest version of the Barryvox® device features a combination of digital and analog technology, along with three antennas. With its wide receiving bandwidth and search strip width of 70 meters, the Barryvox® S offers users a simple interface and easy-to-use operation. Its Smart Search function gives clear instructions through a user-friendly design for quick and accurate search results.

The device also has a Rescue SEND feature to protect non-searching rescuers in case of a secondary avalanche. In this situation, the device will automatically switch to sending signals in order to find buried individuals. Additionally, the Barryvox® S has an interactive Smart Search function that works alongside searching rescuers for more efficient rescue efforts.

Mammut’s legendary Barryvox® S combines formidable search power with unparalleled intuitive handling, for a device that helps you make smart decisions fast, even in the most demanding circumstances. Photo: Mammut

Shop Now! Price: $549.95 at Backcountry, evo and Mammut

Shovel

In the scary scenario that someone in your party has been swept up in an avalanche, everyone will be expected to help excavate. You can’t excavate without a shovel; they are mandatory. Check out this REI article (Irons, n.d.) on snow shovels, their types, and what to look for when purchasing.

Black Diamond Transfer Shovel

The Black Diamond Transfer Shovel has been redesigned to include a more robust and ergonomic extendable handle, as well as a high-volume blade profile. With its UIAA certification, this shovel is designed to efficiently remove large amounts of snow while taking up minimal space. The sturdy, sleek blade ensures clean walls in your snow pit, and the versatile design makes it suitable for all types of backcountry situations.

Photo: Black Diamond

Shop Now! Price: $64.95 Backcountry, REI Co-op, and Black Diamond

Mammut Alugator Ultra – Ultralightweight Avalanche Shovel

The Alugator Ultra, winner of the 2023 ISPO Award, is the lightest aluminum shovel available due to innovative design and materials. Made with aerospace grade 7075 aluminum, it has a welded construction and 1mm blade thickness for maximum performance without added weight. Its telescopic shaft and symmetrical T-grip make it easy to use in emergency situations, and its compact design allows it to fit into small backpacks. It meets high safety standards and is UIAA certified for efficient rescue and durability.

Photo: Mammut

Shop Now! Price: $119.95 Backcountry,  and Mammut

Probe

Within the avalanche mitigation world, probes are often overlooked but have been proven to shave full minutes off of rescue times if used appropriately. Check out this article by EVO (EVO, n.d.) detailing probes and how to choose one. The top three probes below are listed out with aluminum and carbon options where available. Carbon is the stronger material, but drives up the price.

Black Diamond Quickdraw Carbon Probe 240

The Black Diamond Quickdraw Carbon Probe 240 is their lightest probe yet, adding only eight ounces to your pack. It features CordLock technology for a faster and easier rescue system, with a wiregate locking mechanism and updated Kevlar cord. The slightly oversized tip reduces friction for more precise probing.

Photo: Black Diamond

Shop Now! Price: $99.95 at Black Diamond

Backcountry Access Stealth Probe

Photo by Backcountry Access.

• Good: Lightweight, fast release, compact

• Bad: Size options vary from retailer to retailer, not compatible with all backcountry packs

• Price: $90 for carbon based 240 cm EVO

Combo Packages

All this and more, for the price of one! It’s tempting to bulk-buy avy gear so we can spend less time researching but know that a combination package may come with two stellar items and one less than stellar item, so be on the lookout for individual product reviews before you buy a set. Having said that, the options below do a good job of kitting you up quickly.

Black Diamonds Recon BT Avy Safety Set:

Photo by Black Diamond.

• Description: Great, rounded set for recreational touring.

• Price: $419.00 at evo and Black Diamond

Black Diamonds Guide BT Avy Safety Set:

Photo by Black Diamond.

• Description: burly, with probe and shovel that may be too much for casual recreationists, must have for professionals

• Price: $549.00 at Black Diamond and REI

Radio

Radios are super helpful whether you’re in-bounds or out in the great wild yonder. Below are three reliable options for keeping your group connected and communicating. Check out this REI expert article (REI, n.d.) dedicated to helping you decide what kind of radio you may need. Another great resource is Outdoor Gear Labs Walkie-Talkie comparison (Grandy, 2020).

Backcounty BC Link 2.0

Photo by Backcountry Access.

• Range: Usable (6 miles line of sight), Max (40 miles line of sight)

• Battery Life: Avg (80 hrs.), Max (400 hrs.)

• Price: $189.95 REI

• Bottom Line: This radio rocks, it is expensive (the listed price is for one radio), heavy and the connection between the pieces can pop out if not secured correctly but it’s clear signal and great battery life trump all other concerns. Additionally, it performs very well when obstacles separate people like trees, ridges or other natural features.

Motorola T600

Photo by Motorola.

• Range: 35 miles straight line of sight, has trouble with topographical variance

• Battery Life: Avg. 9-11 hrs, Max. 23 hrs

• Price: $119.95 REI

• Bottom Line: A great second to the BC Link, the radio is intended for water use so wet, spring snow shouldn’t impact usability. However, users have reported occasional waterproof defaults in the design, and the battery life is not great.

Midland X-Talker T10

Photo by Midland.

• Range: Max. 20 miles

• Battery Life: 20 hrs. (needs three AAA batteries, not included)

• Price: ~30.00 REI and Midland

• Bottom Line: For someone on a budget, you can’t beat this radio. It’s compact, easy to understand and has a great battery life. The range, while up to 20 miles, tends to fail before that and can be a problem in backcountry situations. For the day spring skier and a small squad that sticks close together, this is a hard option to pass up.

Aleck Nunchucks wireless helmet audio

The Nunchucks are the perfect headphones for your mountain adventures. Slip them into your helmet to enjoy clear music and seamless communication with your group. With accessible controls, you can easily answer phone calls and stay connected without having to take out your phone, even when wearing gloves.

Aleck Nunchucks wireless helmet audio

Shop Now! Price: $129.95 at Backcountry, REI Co-op and Aleck

Backcountry Ski Pack

For all the gear mentioned above, you’ll need a sturdy pack to carry it all in. Is it possible to use a summer backpack? Sure, but the options below have been specifically designed to help the backcountry adventurist get out there without sacrificing functionality. The list is not all inclusive, but will give you a great head start on your search for the ideal backcountry pack.

The ideal backcountry skiing pack should be durable and able to carry your skis when necessary, have a medium-sized capacity, and include a designated section for easy access to your shovel, probe, and other avalanche rescue tools. Additional features like a sleeve for a hydration bladder (with an insulated tube) or extra attachment points for items like a helmet (which you may not want to wear while sweating during the climb) can also be desirable. Read more about picking the right ski touring pack

Your backpack should always have your shovel and probe easily accessible, but some packs can also save your life. The first avalanche packs with survival features were Black Diamond’s Avalung packs, which allow you to breathe under the snow and give your partners more time to dig you out. Since then, many companies have released backpacks with airbag systems. If you are caught in an avalanche, you can pull the emergency handle and an airbag will inflate, increasing your mass and helping you stay above the debris to minimize injury and burial. While these backpacks cannot guarantee your survival in an avalanche, they are certainly better than having nothing at all. Read more about how to choose an airbag backpack

Note: L. equals liters.

Day Touring:

Black Diamond Dawn Patrol

Photo by Black Diamond.

• The Good: Fits most everything for big single days in the backcountry

• The Bad: Expensive, less supportive under heavier loads, not for multi-day.

• The Price: 32 L. $169.95 EVO, Black Diamond 25 L. $149.95 Black Diamond

Dakine Heli Pro 20 L

Photo by Dakine.

• The Good: Multiple options for attaching skis, deep pockets, dedicated avalanche tools pocket.

• The Bad: Small, only recommended for day use.

• The Price: ~$100 at EVO,  Women’s REI

Deuter Freeride Pro 34 L

Photo by Deuter.

• The Good: Excellent snowboard holds, packs down to fit most day touring, price reasonable

• The Bad: Uncomfortable for taller people, not ideal for more committed days

• The Price: $130.00 for both Men’s REI, and Women’s REI

Multi-Day Touring:

Black Diamond Cirque 45L

Photo by Black Diamond.

• The Good: A true multi-day winter backpack with many features, will fit all avy gear and overnight gear.

• The Bad: Heavy and bulky, not for resort or single day backcountry use, more expensive than smaller packs

• The Price: $220.00 at Moosejaw, and Black Diamond

Emergency Essentials

Each person’s emergency kit will vary based on their personal preferences, but a good multi-tool with a knife, duct tape, a headlamp, a lighter, and one or two adjustable ski straps is a great place to start. However, everyone has their own list of essentials that they have developed through experience.

The 10 Emergency Essentials are a collection of first aid and emergency items needed in the event of minor injuries, sudden weather changes, or unexpected delays. Even on day hikes into the backcountry, it’s good to carry them since they could be essential for survival. We have a helpful article on the The Ten Essentials: How to Equip Yourself for the Backcountry.

Advanced Mountaineering Gear

Once you have your finger on the pulse of backcountry skiing, there are additional add-ons that will help you go steeper and farther. These include (but are not limited to) Ice Axe/Mountaineering Axe, Crampons (remember, they need to be compatible with ski or snowboard boots), Avalanche Airbags, Slope meters, 4-Season Tents (Nicholson, 11/2020), and other Backcountry accessories. Each item (like those listed above) comes with a ton of options and varieties. The name of the game with backcountry is patience; take your time and do the research. Spontaneity is usually frowned upon when in avalanche country; taking deliberate steps towards your goals helps guarantee you’ll be able to ski backcountry for years. Failure to do so could lead to abrupt and dramatic consequences.

Conclusion

Having the right equipment is important, but it’s not everything. The key to a successful backcountry adventure is knowing your surroundings before heading out. The most crucial items you can bring are knowledge and good judgment. Good judgment will keep you safe, but if it fails, knowledge may be the only thing that saves you. However, good judgment can only come from experience.

How can you overcome the challenges of learning? You can’t have experience in backcountry skiing right off the bat, but you can start with some knowledge by enrolling in an avalanche 101 course. Ideally, your first trip into the backcountry with your new gear should be accompanied by an avalanche instructor. If that’s not possible, make sure to venture into a safe and low-angle area with a knowledgeable friend who is willing to guide you. Then, prioritize taking a course as soon as you can. Above all, embrace the journey and enjoy all the exciting new adventures that await.

Backcountry skiing is a demanding and growing outdoor discipline. The risks are plentiful, but the rewards are well worth it. With the information presented above, you’ve taken the crucial first step in deciding how best to approach backcountry skiing. However, this article is only about gear and only gives three options per gear item. Please use the resources below to dive deeper into the myriad gear options available. Many additional steps exist after gear purchasing, and it’s incumbent upon the aspiring backcountry skier to make sure they have ALL the gear they need, along with suitable company and a well thought out plan. For further information, please visit our Guide to Planning a Backcountry Ski adventure.

Essential Terms

One of the most important things you can do before heading into the backcountry is to arm yourself with information about the weather and avalanche conditions.

Because this article deals exclusively with backcountry skiing and the gear associated, let’s list out some of the most important terms you’ll come across. Many of these definitions were found using Avalanche.org, a great site for aspiring winter backcountry enthusiasts in the US. They have detailed avalanche forecasts for numerous states, along with international avalanche forecast reports for Canada, New Zealand, and Europe. Their Avalanche Encyclopedia is full of useful terminology.

Keep in mind, the terms below are backcountry specific and do not replace the necessity for skis, goggles, appropriate winter clothing, helmets, ski poles, navigation tools, food, water, and a medical first aid kit.

Backcountry: Broadly defined, the backcountry is an umbrella term used to describe remote, underdeveloped areas. It isn’t solely related to skiing but encompasses designated areas like wildernesses and large, roadless tracks of land. In general, the theme with backcountry is that it’s wild.

Skins: Skis are waxy on the bottom to assist with speed when skiing downhill. Skins, by contrast, are attachments that aid in uphill climbing. Because backcountry skiing exists in a world without ski lifts, Skins are the attachments that allow a skier to climb up a desired slope. The name refers to seal skins, which were originally used to create them in the 1930s. Skins now consist of an adhesive side (usually glue) that bonds with the bottom of your skis and a nylon or mohair side which allows the ski to slide forward (uphill) but not backward.

Alpine Touring (AT) Bindings: If you’ve skied at a ski resort, you’ve noticed that your boots connect to your skis via bindings. With resort bindings, the toe and heel pieces are fastened to the ski. An AT setup consists of bindings which allow the user to pick up the heel component as they move. Without this setup, it would be needlessly difficult to climb up a backcountry slope.

Beacon: These essential pieces of equipment are simply devices that send and receive an electronic signal. They are very useful in determining the location of a skier that has been buried by an avalanche.

Probe: A collapsible metal rod that is used to probe through avalanche debris to assist in locating victims.

Radios: Radios are fairly common devices that allow users to communicate with each other across distances. These useful devices are a must when backcountry skiing as the distances skied are often larger than your ability to shout across.

Shovel: While shovels are a common household item, avalanche shovels are specifically designed to help unbury avalanche victims and consist of collapsible lightweight material.

Backcountry Ski Pack: Generally speaking, any solid backpack can work with ski touring, but many companies now make exclusive backcountry skiing packs to carry all of your gear.

Advanced:

An airbag pack: A backcountry ski pack with an inflatable component that can deploy to create breathable space when buried under snow.

4 Season tent for multi-day excursions: Burly tents that can handle winter camping.

Ice Axe: An essential piece of mountaineering hardware that adds a level of safety and support to steep and difficult climbs.

Crampons: A shoe frame with metal spikes, used to increase grip on steep slopes; there are ski boot specific crampons.

Slope meter: A useful tool to measure slope angle in the backcountry.

Mammut Aspects | Stories from avalanche terrain | Ep. 04: Along for the ride

We often measure risk by probability and consequence. But what happens when we don’t have the full scope on either? How do you manage risk and place trust in unfamiliar terrain?

In the latest episode of Mammut’s Aspects series, Canadian Katie Combaluzier shares her story about a tour during a ski trip to the French Alps that changed her life forever. After arriving in France, the former ski racer connected with some friends of friends for a tour at Chamechaude near Grenoble, which tragically ended with one death and left Combaluzier with a fractured spine.

Nearly five years later, Combaluzier reflects on the dynamics that impacted her decision-making that day and how her life continues to be shaped by her love of skiing. Read an extended interview with Katie Combaluzier on the Mammut Journal.

Sources (listed in order of appearance):

1. AIARE (American Institute of Avalanche Research and Education). (2020). Retrieved from https://avtraining.org/

2. Avalanche.Org. (n.d.). Avalanche Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://avalanche.org/avalanche-encyclopedia/#anchors

3. REI. (n.d.) How to Choose, Trim, and Attach Ski Climbing Skins. Retrieved from https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/ski-skins.html

4. Porter, J. (2020, November 9). Black Diamond Glidelite Mix STS Review. Retrieved from https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/reviews/snow-sports/climbing-skins/black-diamond-glidelite-mix-sts

5. Porter, J. (2017, January 30). G3 Alpinist Review. Retrieved from https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/reviews/snow-sports/climbing-skins/g3-alpinist

6. Porter, J. (2020, February 11). Pomoca Climb Pro S Glide Review. Retrieved from https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/reviews/snow-sports/climbing-skins/pomoca-climb-pro-s-glide

7. Ski Magazine Editors. (2020, November 10). The Best Backcountry Ski Bindings. Retrieved from https://www.skimag.com/gear/backcountry-bindings/

8. Bible, Aaron. (2020, December 8). The Best Backcountry Ski Bindings of 2021. Retrieved from https://gearjunkie.com/best-backcountry-ski-bindings

9. Switchback Travel Staff. (2020, December 21). Best Ski Bindings of 2021. Retrieved from https://www.switchbacktravel.com/best-ski-bindings

10. Nicholson, I., & Porter, J. (2020, October 23). Best Backcountry Ski Bindings of 2020. Retrieved from https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/snow-sports/best-at-bindings

11. EVO. (2020) The 6 Best Touring & AT Ski Bindings for the 2020-2021 Winter. Retrieved from https://www.evo.com/reviews/ski/best-touring-at-bindings

12. Nicholson, Ian. (2018, December 21) Marker Duke EPF Review. Retrieved from https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/reviews/snow-sports/at-bindings/marker-duke-epf

13. Evolution Basin. (n.d.) Solomon Guardian MNC 13 Alpine Touring Binding. Retrieved from https://evolutionbasin.com/42656/salomon-guardian-mnc-13-alpine-touring-binding

14. Backcountry Skiing Canada. (n.d.) Tyrolia Ambition 12 Alpine Touring Binding. Retrieved from https://www.backcountryskiingcanada.com/Tyrolia-Ambition-12-Binding-Review

15. Irons, Geoff. (n.d.) How to Choose and Use an Avalanche Transceiver. Retrieved from https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/avalanche-transceiver.html

16. Switchback Travel Staff. (2020, November 10). Best Avalanche Beacons of 2021. Retrieved from https://www.switchbacktravel.com/best-avalanche-beacons

17. Irons, Geoff. (n.d.) How to Choose Avalanche Shovels. Retrieved from https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/snow-shovel.html

18. EVO. (n.d.) How to Choose and Avalanche Probe. Retrieved from https://www.evo.com/guides/how-to-choose-avalanche-probe

19. REI.com (2021) How to Choose Two-Way Radios. Retrieved from https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/twoway-radios.html

20. Grandy, Gray. (2020, November 11). Best Walkie-Talkies of 2020. Retrieved from https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-walkie-talkies?specs=n&n=0&sort_field=#compare

21. Bouchard, Nancy. (2021, January 13). The Best Ski Backpacks of 2021. Retrieved from https://gearjunkie.com/best-ski-backpack

22. Switchback Travel Staff. (2021, January 6). Best Ski Backpacks of 2021. Retrieved from https://www.switchbacktravel.com/best-ski-backpacks

23. Nicholson, Ian. (2020, November 5). Best Four-Season Tent of 2020. Retrieved from https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-4-season-tent

Terms of Use: As with each guide published on SKYBLUEOVERLAND.com, should you choose to go backcountry skiing, do so at your own risk. Prior to setting out check current local weather, conditions, and land/road closures. While taking a trail, obey all public and private land use restrictions and rules, carry proper safety and navigational equipment, and of course, follow the #leavenotrace guidelines. The information found herein is simply a planning resource to be used as a point of inspiration in conjunction with your own due-diligence. In spite of the fact that this guide was prepared under diligent research by the specified contributor and/or contributors, the accuracy of such and judgement of the author is not guaranteed. SKYBLUE OVERLAND LLC, its partners, associates, and contributors are in no way liable for personal injury, damage to personal property, or any other such situation that might happen to individuals following this guide.