The top 9 backcountry tools of 2017-2018

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.

[su_button url=”https://www.ortovox.com/us/shop/avalanche-emergency-equipment/avalanche-shovels/shovel-kodiak-safety-blue/” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#0e5589″ size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”5″]Shop Ortovox — $90[/su_button]

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.

[su_button url=”https://www.ortovox.com/us/shop/avalanche-emergency-equipment/avalanche-transceivers/ortovox-3–blue-ocean/” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#0e5589″ size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”5″]Shop Ortovox — $369[/su_button]

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.

[su_button url=”https://www.ortovox.com/us/shop/rucksaecke/avalanche-airbags/ascent-30-avabag/” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#0e5589″ size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”5″]Shop Ortovox — $720[/su_button]

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.

[su_button url=”https://www.ortovox.com/us/shop/avalanche-emergency-equipment/avalanche-probes/carbon-240-superlight-black/” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#0e5589″ size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”5″]Shop Ortovox — $90[/su_button]

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.

[su_button url=”https://backcountryaccess.com/product/bc-link-two-way-radio-camo/” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#0e5589″ size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”5″]Shop Backcountry Access — $150[/su_button]

Backcountry Access T3 Avalanche Rescue Package

[su_button url=”https://backcountryaccess.com/product/t3-avalanche-rescue-package/” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#0e5589″ size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”5″]Shop Backcountry Access — $420[/su_button]

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.

[su_button url=”https://www.komperdell.com/en/poles/alpin/produkt.php?id=175_2319_10″ target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#0e5589″ size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”5″]Shop Komperdell — $200[/su_button]

Leki Alpinestick S

[su_button url=”https://www.leki.com/us/” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#0e5589″ size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”5″]Shop Leki — $200[/su_button]

G3 Scala LT Climbing Skins

[su_button url=”https://us-store.genuineguidegear.com/products/scalalt-skins” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#0e5589″ size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”5″]Shop G3 — $224[/su_button]