Ryan Stuart, explore's gear editor
Ryan Stuart's tell all blog spot on his gear addiction and life and times as explore magazine's gear editor
Backcountry bound
I keep hearing how skiing is making a comeback. For a long time snowboarding's cooler image was stealing would be skiers, but slowly over the last 10 years skiing has won back a share of snow riders, at least according to statistics. I was skeptical, but just the other day I received some personal proof. A friend switched to the good side (I'm a life long skier, just in case you weren't sure). As a long time boarder it came as a surprise to me, but she's living in Alaska with a boyfriend who skis.
For most boarders trying to get into the backcountry I suggest getting a split board. They're a little finicky, but with practice they work really well and keep up with skiers well. Prior splitboards consistently get good reviews from everyone who uses them. I'm exited to get some feedback on Atomic's new splitboard - their first foray into the niche. It has rounded ends on the "skis" so they track better skinning up.
But my friend wasn't interested in taking on the mechanics of splitboarding, so she was switching back to skiing. She wanted to know what I would suggest for backcountry gear - skins, beacon, probe and shovel. I've been backcountry skiing for 15 years and teaching avalanche courses for eight years. She didn't want to spend a fortune, but she values her life. Here's what I suggested she do:
Buying used is fine for most gear, except skins. Beacons have a life; don't buy anything older than about eight years.
Beacon: get digital. They're fast and easy, which makes all the difference. I use the Tracker from Backcountry Access. It's one of the least expensive and easy to operate. Just be sure to practice lots, so you know how to use it.
Probe: anything works as long as its 200 cms or longer. Just make sure the closure system (the part that keeps the probe in one piece once you've assembled it) is easy to use. One that screws down is best. I like G3's system.
Shovel: anything as long as it's metal and has an extendable handle. Brooks Range has a deadly, literally, looking new shovel with some rescue and searching tips burnt right into the blade.
Skins: make sure they fit your skis well - so buy new and cut them down. G3 and Black Diamond are both good quality.
Avalanche Packs: If you're going from occasional weekend warrior to anything more, consider buying an avalanche air bag pack like ABS or Snowpulse, which I featured in the winter issue of explore and you can see videos here
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