Essential Gear for Adventure: Your Ultimate Kit Splitboard Checklist

Splitboard

Choosing the right splitboard is a lot like choosing the right snowboard. We need to consider our weight, ability, riding style, and the terrain we want to conquer. A splitboard is designed to split into two halves, allowing us to hike up the mountain and then reassemble it for the ride down.

Types of Splitboards

  1. Freestyle Splitboards: Perfect for those who love big air maneuvers. These boards are smaller and cambered, providing better responsiveness and stability. Examples include the Prior BC Splitboard and the Burton Family Tree Hometown Hero Splitboard.
  2. Powder Splitboards: Ideal for those who crave a surf-like experience in deep snow. These boards are larger with a directional and rockered profile. Examples are the Jones Mind Expander Splitboard and the Arbor Coda Split Rocker Splitboard.
  3. All-Mountain Splitboards: Best for those who want a versatile board that can handle various terrains. These boards are stiffer and directional, with a set-back camber profile for maximum pop and control. Examples include the Kindred Cumberland Gap Splitboard and the Salomon Speedway Splitboard.
When finding the perfect location for your splitboard adventures, timing, travel logistics, and gear are crucial. Proper preparation and communication devices are essential for a safe experience.

Splitboard Length

The right length for our splitboard generally falls between our chin and nose. A longer board offers more stability at high speeds and wide turns, while a shorter board is more maneuverable and easier to handle in tight spots.

Splitboard Bindings

Bindings are crucial for connecting us to our splitboard. Leading systems include Karakoram and Spark R&D. Important criteria are low weight, ease of use, and quick transition between ascent and descent modes. Some bindings even come with integrated climbing aids for extra support.

Splitboard Boots

Choosing the right boots is essential. Splitboard-specific boots are stiffer and offer better crampon compatibility, side hill rigidity, and stride ability. However, they might compromise comfort on the ride down. Regular snowboard boots can provide a more natural and surfy descent.

Climbing Skins

Climbing skins are vital for the ascent. They attach to the nose and tail of the splitboard, providing the necessary grip on the snow. Pre-cut skins are available, but cut-to-size skins can be adapted to fit any board.

Crampons

Crampons are essential for icy conditions. They provide extra grip when the snow surface is solid ice, ensuring we don't slip during the ascent.

Climbing Skins

Climbing skins are a must-have for any splitboard setup. These strips of fabric attach to the bottom of your splitboard, giving you the grip needed to climb up snowy slopes. Once you reach the top, simply peel them off, fold them, and stash them away.

Choosing the Right Skins

When picking skins, consider the material, length, and width. Skins come in different materials like nylon, mohair, or a blend. Nylon is durable but has less glide, mohair glides well but isn't as tough, and blended skins offer a mix of both.

Sizing Your Skins

Make sure your skins match the length of your board. Width is also crucial; aim to cover as much of the base as possible for better traction.

Properly sized skins are key to mastering the mountains with the solution splitboard. They ensure you have the grip needed for a safe and enjoyable ascent.

Pre-Cut or DIY?

Some splitboards come with pre-cut skins, while others require you to cut them yourself. If you're cutting your own, ensure they cover the board completely, especially around the bindings, but leave the edges free for better grip.

Splitboard Bindings

When it comes to splitboard bindings, we need to make sure we have the right setup for our adventures. The bindings are crucial for both the ascent and descent, and they need to be reliable and easy to use.

Choosing the Right Bindings

There are several options available, including Freestyle Snowboard Bindings and more specialized ones like DC Snowboard Bindings and Rebel Snowboard Bindings. It's important to consider the compatibility with your splitboard and the type of riding you plan to do.

Key Features to Look For

  • Weight: Lighter bindings make the climb easier.
  • Ease of Use: Quick transitions between ascent and descent modes are essential.
  • Durability: They need to withstand harsh conditions.
  • Support: Look for bindings with integrated climbing aids if you need extra support on the ascent.

Popular Binding Systems

Two of the most popular systems are from Spark R&D and Karakoram. Each has its own pros and cons, so it often comes down to personal preference. Spark R&D uses a two-pin system for easy transitions, while Karakoram offers a step-in feature that can be tricky in icy conditions.

The interface connects the binding to the splitboard. Without it, your splitboard is useless. Make sure to check if the interface or pucks are included or need to be purchased separately.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're using Snowboard Bindings or specialized Splitboard Bindings, the right choice can make or break your adventure. Always consider the Binding On Snowboard and ensure everything is compatible for a smooth ride.

Splitboard Boots

Choosing the right splitboard boots is crucial for a successful adventure. Splitboard-specific boots offer unique benefits, but regular snowboard boots can also work well depending on your needs.

Key Features to Consider

  • Stiffness: Splitboard boots are often stiffer, providing better support for climbing and traversing.
  • Crampon Compatibility: Many splitboard boots are designed to be compatible with crampons, which is essential for icy conditions.
  • Weight: Lighter boots make long ascents easier.
  • Adjustability: Look for boots with adjustable tightness for both the upper and lower sections.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Better support, crampon compatibility, and lighter weight.
  • Cons: Stiffer boots can be less comfortable for the descent.
For those who prefer a more natural and surfy descent, a softer, more sensitive regular snowboard boot might be the best option.

Popular Models

  • 32 Jones MTB Boot: Known for its stiffness and crampon compatibility.
  • K2 Aspect Snow Boot: Offers great support and adjustability.
  • Vans Viaje Boot: A popular choice among women splitboarders.

When choosing your boots, always refer to a Snowboard Fitting Chart and Snowboard Size Chart to ensure the best fit. Whether you're looking at Snowboard Shoes or checking out Snowboards For Sale, the right boots can make or break your adventure.

Telescopic Poles

Telescopic poles are a must-have for any splitboarding adventure. They help us maintain balance and provide extra support during ascents and descents. Adjustable poles are especially useful as they can be shortened or extended based on the terrain.

Key Features to Look For

  • Adjustability: Look for poles that can be easily adjusted to different lengths.
  • Weight: Lightweight poles are easier to carry and use for extended periods.
  • Durability: Strong materials like aluminum or carbon fiber ensure the poles can withstand tough conditions.
  • Grip: Comfortable grips are essential for long days on the mountain.

Why We Need Them

Telescopic poles are not just for balance; they also help us conserve energy and improve our efficiency on the mountain. They are an essential part of our splitboarding gear, making our backcountry experience safer and more enjoyable.

When mastering the art of the ski split, having the right gear, including telescopic poles, is crucial. They are as important as splitboard bindings, climbing skins, and avalanche safety equipment.

Avalanche Transceiver

An avalanche transceiver, also known as a beacon, is a must-have tool for anyone venturing into the backcountry. It helps us locate buried victims or be found if we get caught in an avalanche. This device can be a lifesaver when every second counts.

  • Practice Regularly: It's crucial to practice using your transceiver often. The more familiar we are with it, the better our chances of a successful rescue.
  • Choose Wisely: There are many reliable transceivers on the market. Some of our favorites include the BCA Tracker3 and Mammut Barryvox S.
In the backcountry, it's up to us to manage the risk. Having the right gear and knowing how to use it can make all the difference.

Remember, a transceiver is just one part of the essential avalanche safety gear. Always pair it with a probe and shovel for a complete safety setup.

Avalanche Shovel

An avalanche shovel is a must-have for any backcountry adventure. It's not just for digging out avalanche victims but also for creating snow-study pits to analyze the snowpack. On multi-day trips, it becomes invaluable for building snow kitchens, tent sites, and more.

Key Features to Look For

  • Durability: Your shovel needs to be tough enough to chop through rock-hard snow.
  • Lightweight and Collapsible: It should fit easily into your ski backpack.
  • Grip Type: Choose a grip that feels comfortable in your hands.
  • Extendable Handles: These can make digging easier and more efficient.
  • Additional Features: Some shovels come with built-in snow saws.
Remember, the right shovel can make a huge difference in an emergency. Practice using it regularly to ensure you're prepared when it counts.

Avalanche Probe

An avalanche probe is a must-have in our backcountry kit. It's essential for pinpointing the exact location and depth of a buried person after an avalanche.

Choosing the Right Probe

Probes come in different lengths and weights. The right one for you depends on the average snow depth where you usually ride. For shallower snow, like in the Colorado Rockies, we prefer the BCA Stealth 240. For deeper snowpacks, such as in British Columbia, the Black Diamond QuickDraw Pro Probe 320 is a solid choice.

Practice Makes Perfect

It's crucial to practice deploying your probe. Some designs are more intuitive than others, so get familiar with how yours works. This can make a big difference in an emergency.

In the backcountry, it's up to us to manage the risk. Having the right gear and knowing how to use it can save lives.

Additional Uses

Besides avalanche rescue, a probe is handy for measuring snow depth and checking snowpack stability. It's a versatile tool that adds value to our safety gear.

Snow Saw

A snow saw is a must-have for any backcountry adventure. It's essential for cutting through snow and ice to create snow pits, shelters, or even to clear out a campsite. We need a reliable tool that can handle tough conditions.

  • Durability: Look for a saw that can withstand extreme cold and heavy use.
  • Portability: It should be lightweight and easy to pack.
  • Versatility: Some models come with additional features like rulers for measuring snow layers.
Having a snow saw in our kit ensures we're prepared for any situation, from building a snow kitchen to performing snow stability tests.

Snow Study Kit

When we're out in the backcountry, having a snow study kit is crucial for safety and decision-making. This kit helps us understand the snowpack and assess avalanche risks.

Essential Items

  • Snow saw: For cutting snow columns and performing stability tests.
  • Slope meter: Measures the angle of the slope to evaluate avalanche danger.
  • Thermometer: Checks the temperature gradient within the snowpack.
  • Magnifying glass: Examines snow crystals to understand their structure.
  • Field book and pencil: Records observations and test results.
A well-equipped snow study kit can be the difference between a safe trip and a dangerous one. Always make sure your kit is complete before heading out.

Understanding the snowpack is a key part of backcountry safety. Let's make sure we have all the tools we need to make informed decisions.

Get ready for your next snow adventure with our Snow Study Kit! It's packed with everything you need to understand snow conditions and make the most of your time on the slopes. Don't miss out on this essential gear. Visit our website now to learn more and get yours today!

Back to blog