Backcountry skiing gives athletes and adventurers the opportunity to explore lesser known trails, unique terrain, and avoid crowds. But steering clear of crowds also means that taking safety into consideration is even more important.
Here’s are 4 tips for backcountry skiing safety from our team:
1. Take an Avalanche Safety Course
If you’re going to be skiing in an area where an avalanche can occur, it’s recommended to get trained in avalanche safety and backcountry navigation. These courses, which are usually three days long, teach you how to read terrain, understand snowpack stability, and perform rescue procedures effectively. They’ll also give you the rundown on gear essentials for staying safe, and how to use them.
2. Carry Essential Gear
Once you take an avalanche safety course, make sure you pack all essential avalanche safety tools for your ski trip, including: a beacon, probe, and shovel. If folks in your group haven’t taken an avalanche safety course, it’s helpful to give them a quick rundown of how to use each piece of equipment.
3. Bring a Buddy
It’s never recommended to ski in deep backcountry alone in case of an emergency. Before heading out on a backcountry ski trip, make sure to communicate with your group to make sure everyone is on the same page regarding the day's route and safety protocols.
4. Be Prepared for Changing Conditions
Conditions can change rapidly in the backcountry– especially in areas at elevation. Make sure to bring gear for extreme conditions, and know how to navigate in low visibility. This includes packing extra layers, food, water, and a first aid kit.
While we can’t prepare you for the changing conditions on the mountain, we can help make sure you have the gear you need. Our belts for ski pants are constructed with high-quality elastic materials that ensure durability and functionality for all-day comfort. With a low-profile, contoured buckle constructed from high density molded plastic, these snow pants belts give you the support you need– without the bulk of traditional materials.
Because our goal at Arcade is to change the way you think about belts, we prioritize fit over all else. That’s why we built our elastic ski belts with a micro-adjustable buckle that dials into your exact fit– no matter how many layers you’re wearing.
And when the day is complete, simply throw your snowboard belt in the wash with the rest of your outfit for an easy clean.