The mountains are calling -- escape the throng of people, experience the raw beauty of the alpine, and access some of the deepest, dreamiest lines this magnificent planet has to offer; these are the things that continually drive us further and keep us coming back. Risky? Yes, but with the proper gear and applicable knowledge the risks of traveling in backcountry terrain can be all but mitigated. To help you ensure the safest and funnest (yes, funnest) backcountry experience, we've rounded up the best new gear and most up-to-date avalanche awareness information so you can confidently know before you go.
Beyond the avalanche essentials (i.e. beacon, shovel, probe), having the right equipment can make or break a backcountry experience. From lightweight touring skis and splitboards that allow you to travel efficiently uphill, to backpacks that comfortably haul all your goodies, the proper gear is absolutely pivotal when your navigating non-lift-accessed terrain. Need a beacon? An airbag? Touring bindings? Check out our collection of backcountry equipment below.
Traditional downhill skiing doesn't typically warrant a backpack full of gear or transitions where regulating temperature is key. When traveling in the backcountry, preparation and adding or subtracting layers is the name of the game -- not to mention everything needs to either be worn or stowed efficiently in your pack. As a result, having lightweight, packable, and breathable layers is super important. Browse our collection of touring specific baselayers, insulators, and shells and make sure you're dressed appropriately for your next trek.
Having the gear is only half of the equation. Knowing how to use it, how to analyze terrain and snowpack, and which resources to check prior to departure is the other half. For starters, we'd recommend taking an avalanche awareness class (offered for free throughout the winter at evo Seattle, evo Portland, and evo Denver locations). Follow that up with an AIARE Level 1 course, and regularly practice using your avalanche rescue tools with the people you'll be touring with. And finally, get out there and explore! To help you "know before you go," we've rounded up a a number of useful resources inlcuding upcoming clinics, evoTrips, and free avalanche awareness classes for riders of all levels.
Looking for more educational resources? Check out evo's extensive list of Backcountry Guides below and bookmark these handy avalanche centers and resources -- both the evoCollective and evoCrew visit them on a regular basis:
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