The Best Backcountry Ski Gear

Backcountry Skiing:

Backcountry skiing, also known as off-piste skiing or backcountry touring, involves skiing in remote, undeveloped, or unmarked areas outside of designated ski resorts. Participants in backcountry skiing typically seek fresh powder snow and a more natural, wilderness experience compared to skiing in resort-controlled terrain. Backcountry skiing requires a higher level of skill and preparation compared to skiing within resort boundaries due to the inherent risks and challenges associated with navigating uncontrolled terrain and potential avalanche hazards. Many skiers undergo specialized training and gain experience before venturing into backcountry environments. Before you venture off and spend time exploring the backcountry be sure you are equipped with the best backcountry ski gear of 2024 - 2025:

Backcountry Skis:

Backcountry skis, also referred to as touring skis or backcountry touring skis, are specialized equipment designed for skiing in remote and unmarked areas outside of traditional ski resorts. Backcountry skis are typically lighter and more flexible than alpine skis. This lighter weight helps reduce fatigue during ascents and makes them easier to maneuver in varied terrain. They are generally wider than traditional alpine skis. This increased width provides better floatation in deep snow, which is essential when skiing in ungroomed and off-piste terrain.

Recommended backcountry skis:

• Atomic Alpine Skis

• K2 Alpine Skis

• Rossignol Alpine Skis

Backcountry Ski Boots:

Backcountry ski boots, also known as backcountry touring boots or AT (Alpine Touring) boots, are specialized footwear designed for skiing in remote and unmarked terrain outside of traditional ski resorts. Backcountry ski boots are typically lighter than traditional alpine ski boots. This reduced weight helps to minimize fatigue during ascents, where skiers often hike or skin uphill. They are designed to offer a greater range of ankle motion compared to alpine boots. This increased flexibility allows for more natural walking and climbing movements when in "walk mode," making uphill travel more efficient.

Recommended backcountry ski boots:

• Atomic Ski Boots

• Head Ski Boots

• K2 Ski Boots

• Lange Ski Boots

• Nordica Ski Boots

• Tecnica Ski Boots

• Salomon Ski Boots

Backcountry Ski Bindings:

AT bindings are designed to transition between "ski mode" and "touring mode." In ski mode, the bindings function similarly to traditional alpine bindings, securing the ski boot firmly for downhill skiing. In touring mode, the bindings allow the heel of the boot to lift, enabling the skier to walk and climb uphill with greater efficiency. Many AT bindings feature heel lifters or climbing aids that can be flipped up or adjusted to different heights. These lifters help to reduce calf strain and improve traction when ascending steep slopes. Choosing the right backcountry AT bindings involves considering factors such as compatibility with your ski boots, weight, release settings, ease of transition between modes, and durability.

Recommended backcountry ski bindings:

• Atomic AT Ski Bindings

• Black Diamond AT Ski Bindings

• Marker AT Ski Bindings

Backcountry Ski Poles:

Backcountry ski poles, like other gear designed for off-piste skiing, are specialized for navigating varied and challenging terrain outside of traditional ski resorts. Backcountry ski poles are often made from lightweight and durable materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber. Many backcountry ski poles are adjustable in length, allowing skiers to customize the pole height for different types of terrain and conditions. Adjustable poles are particularly useful for uphill climbs where shorter poles can provide better leverage, and for downhill skiing where longer poles offer stability. Backcountry ski poles come with larger baskets compared to alpine ski poles. These baskets are designed to provide better flotation in deep snow and prevent the poles from sinking too deeply. Some backcountry ski poles are designed to be collapsible or foldable for easy storage and transportation. This feature is particularly useful for backcountry skiers who need to attach their poles to a backpack during climbs or when navigating technical terrain. The right poles will complement your skiing style and help you navigate safely and efficiently through challenging backcountry terrain.

Recommended backcountry ski poles:

• Atomic Ski Poles

• K2 Ski Poles

• Rossignol Ski Poles

Backcountry Ski Accessories:

• Backcountry Shovel

• Backcountry Split board

• Backcountry Skins

• Backcountry Snowshoes

• Backcountry Avalanche Beacon

• Backcountry Avalanche Probes

• Avalanche Air Bag

• Backcountry Gear Box

• Backcountry Camping Tent

• Backcountry Sleeping Bag

• Backcountry Gear Box

• Backcountry Sled

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