How To Stay Safe When Back Country Snowboarding
The fresh powder and the serene quietness of the back country is what makes it so beautiful, majestic, alluring, but also so dangerous! Which is why it is important to be prepared, whether you are thinking about trying backcountry snowboarding for the first time, or if you’re an avid tourer! We have pulled together some top tips and packing essentials including snow clothing and avalanche protection equipment for your next back country adventure below.
Snow Jackets
WOMEN’S PICTURE SEEN JACKET
Designed with a 20K/20K membrane for unmatched waterproof/breathability and reinforced with a PFC-free durable water repellent treatment, this jacket is a force to be reckoned with against the elements. Not only does this jacket have enhanced protection, fit and functionality, this design is also crafted using sustainable bio-sourced polyester.
MEN’S PICTURE WELCOME 3 LAYER JACKET
As well as a 20K/20K waterproof membrane and a water repellent treatment to the outer, this jacket includes extra design features such as pit zips for easy temperature control, waterproof zips and adjustable cuffs. Take on the slopes in practical style with a jacket that is sure to be with you for many snow seasons to come.
Extra Layers
MEN’S PICTURE TAKASHIMA JACKET
The Picture Takashima Jacket is a hybrid synthetic down jacket that offers body-mapping construction that provides the perfect combination of technical performance and unbeatable freedom of movement. Constructed with performance-driven features such as a durable water repellent treatment and a YKK® reversed centre-front zip to lock in warmth and keep moisture out.
Gloves or Mitts
MEN’S PICTURE MADSON GLOVES
The Men’s Picture Madson Gloves are designed to keep your hands warm all winter long! Featuring a insulated-fleece lining, rubber palms and Picture transfer logo, treat your hands to a premium product that boasts practical style.
Water and Snacks
PICTURE CAMPOI VACUUM BOTTLE
This double-wall insulated thermos will keep your drink warm for 8 hours or fresh for 24 hours. The vacuum insulation means your bottle will stay condensation free. The stainless-steel lid prevents accidental spills and keeps your bag dry, whilst the cup lets you share a warm drink when standing on the summit!
Equipment
ORTOVOX PROBE ALU 240
This Probe offers an efficient answer to emergency avalanche situations! In order to determine burial depth and select an optimized shovelling strategy, all Ortovox probes have highly legible depth markers and a clear one-meter marker. Thanks to the optimized PFA system the ALU 240 PFA is now more compact for easier handling, combined with the quick-assembly strap that allows immediate opening and assembling in an impressive one motion. Equipped with a new and improved rubberized grip also ensures safe, ice-free handling in all conditions.
ORTOVOX BADGER SHOVEL
Boasting a robust design, this shovel features non-slip grooves on the top edge of the blade to provide adequate traction when wearing boots, a pronounced centre ridge and high side walls for full rigidity and a cantering aid in the shaft socket for rapid assembly.
THE ORTOVOX DIRACT TRANSCEIVER
From beginners to experienced users, the Diract Transceiver will reliably and quickly guide you to your buried companion in an emergency. Built with three-antenna, this transceiver comes with Smart-Antenna Technology, which analyses the device’s location in the avalanche and automatically switches to the best transmitting antenna. Running on a rechargeable low-temperature battery that is especially long-lasting and environmentally friendly, feel prepared for an emergency situation.
ORTOVOX DIRACT VOICE LIGHT RESCUE SET
If you would prefer to get everything you need in one set, this is for you. This set includes a Diract Voice, the world’s first avalanche transceiver with an integrated voice navigation that will reliably and quickly guide you to your buried companion in an emergency. A Ortovox Probe that provides an efficient answer to emergency avalanche situations. Also, a Pro Light Shovel, that is impeccably crafted using innovative materials, modern manufacturing processes and clever notches in the blade. Prepare for an emergency situation with this superior set.
A First Aid Kit
Hopefully this packing essential never has to be used but if a problem should arise you’ll be more than glad you packed it!
A Multi-Tool
A multi-tool is a super handy accessory to carry with you when out in the back country. We advise one that has a screwdriver for any boot/binding issues, pliers, scissors and a bottle opener wouldn’t go a miss!
TOP TIPS
Always make sure you know how to correctly use/deploy any equipment you are taking out with you. This will also check if anything is not working as it should or is broken.
When using a transceiver, place it on top of most of your layers and under your top layer. Be sure to check the battery at the start of the day and keep it on all day. Situate your transceiver 30cm from your other electronics so they do not interfere with how it works.