Understanding the ever-changing state of the snow while traveling in the backcountry is key. This kit contains a field book to record all of your observations, a slope meter to gauge the pitch of your line, a folding 10 times magnifier for up-close views of snow crystals, two digital thermometers to gauge snow temperature, a snow crystal card and 100- and 200-centimeter folding rulers to take measurements. And that’s just a smidgen of what’s included.

Also in this photo:

Brooks-Range Mountaineering Igloo 35 Folding Snow Saw

No need to beat around the bush, this tool is for those who find themselves constantly performing snowpack compression tests in the backcountry. It features a lightweight, strong aluminum build with an anodized finish to combat rust and snow accumulation on the blade. The teeth are offset by six millimeters to prevent any dragging or freezing of the blade when cutting. Did we mention it folds in half for easy storage in your pack? FREESKIER certified: Sharp “AF.”