When skiing in the backcountry, it’s important to have both the proper knowledge and gear to succeed. We’re here to help you via the top eight backcountry tools of 2017, below. They were carefully selected and tested among the many options on the market, and you can ski confidently knowing they’ll help to keep you as safe as possible out there.
Ortovox Kodiak
Ortovox redesigned its shovels for 2017-18 with the goal of saving space in one’s backcountry pack while still increasing functionality. Regarding the Kodiak, in particular, its D-shaped grip is now much more compact than before, allowing for easy stowage. Additionally, the blade’s bottom is flat for a better fit in your pack’s tool pocket. As with previous Kodiak models, there is a “hoe-mode” for efficient snow removal and a rubber grip to prevent slipping.
Ortovox 3+ Beacon
The 3+ is an intuitive avalanche transceiver that can be relied upon by backcountry beginners and experts alike. A standout feature of this product is its ability to understand its particular orientation (horizontal, vertical, etc.) and subsequently broadcast from the optimal antenna plane to provide the best possible signal. Furthermore, the 3+ features a giant central screen that can display up to three targets during a multiple burial situation and shows “4+” if this unfortunate circumstance arises. A flagging button helps to mark found signals, expediting the search for additional transmissions.
Ortovox Ascent 30 Avabag
The Ascent 30 Avabag is a minimalist, lightweight (2,170 grams with carbon cartridge) airbag pack that doesn’t skimp on the essentials (storage, ski/ice axe carry, tool pocket, etc.). The airbag is welded not sewn, for a stronger, more compact build; the venturi unit is slimmed to almost half the weight of the former ABS M.A.S.S. system; and the number
of components in the system is down to 20 from 70. Aside from weight, Ortovox’s mechanical, rather than percussive, release mechanism allows the user to pull the trigger without consuming the cartridge in order to practice and build muscle memory to prepare for an actual slide scenario.
Ortovox Carbon 240 Spotlight Probe
Weighing just 185 grams, this probe from Ortovox is crazy-lightweight. The probe also boasts brighter and more legible depth markers than previous iterations, allowing users to easily identify snow depths, and—in unfortunate cases—burial depths as fast as possible. The full-orange bottom segment also ensures quick visual notification of the approximate depth of a buried party. When a life is on the line, every advantage counts.
Backcountry Access BC Link Radio
Clear communication is one of, if not the most important aspect of successful days in the backcountry and the BC Link Radio is a very effective tool in aiding group conversation. Your pack houses the base unit while the microphone clips onto your shoulder strap. The base unit utilizes a rechargeable lithium ion battery, is waterproof and compatible with all standard FRS/GMRS radios. The mic unit is glove-friendly and includes a push-to-talk button, power switch, volume control and channel selector. Communicating with your entire team, even from the next ridge over, has never been easier.
Backcountry Access T3 Avalanche Rescue Package
Thanks to this awesome bundle, BCA has made it exceptionally easy for novice backcountry skiers to get their hands on the essential gear for venturing out-of-bounds. The T3 Avalanche Rescue Package comes with the Tracker3 avalanche transceiver, Stealth 270 probe and B-1 EXT shovel. The three-antennae beacon utilizes an instantaneous real-time display as well as a “big picture” mode and signal suppression components for multiple burial scenarios; the Stealth 270 enables a fast, easy assembly and features highly-visible depth markers for intuitive searching; and the extendable B-1 EXT shovel has an amazing strength-to-weight ratio and packs down nice and small. All told, there’s a lot to love, here.
Komperdell Fatso Team Vario
There’s something undeniably satisfying about clutching a big, girthy pole—are we right? The Fatso, by Komperdell, is exactly that. And don’t be fooled by its size; it’s mind-bogglingly lightweight. Its polyurethane grip is also mega-soft, über-grippy and extends 43 centimeters down the pole, allowing backcountry tourers to choke up when traversing across the mountain. The locking adjustment system, which is built with high-density aluminum for better retention, provides for easy lengthening and shortening, too.
Leki Alpinestick S
The Alpinestick S has everything you need in a touring pole: An adjustment range of 110 to 130 centimeters; a dedicated grip for use when traversing steep slopes; a lightweight, carbon upper and a burlier aluminum lower that can hold up to rocks, trees and ice. On top of all that, it folds up to a length of 38 centimeters, great for traveling and stowing in your pack when needed.
G3 Scala LT Climbing Skins
Building upon the success of the SCALA climbing skin, G3’s LT version delivers the same tried and true performance in a lighter, “faster” form. The skin still utilizes thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) scales in the tip for increased glide and deep snow trail-breaking abilities, but in a skinnier build. The thinner tip shape exposes the base of the ski somewhat, yet extensive testing has shown that it remains highly adept at preventing snow from building up between the TPU and ski. The skin also wraps around itself for top-notch pack-ability.
