Continuing from last time , I will write about the equipment I carry as starting equipment when I enjoy backcountry skiing (for day trips to Honshu Mountain High Seasons from January to February).
Just like last time, I'll add that, just to be sure, this list is just a realistic lineup I carry in the backcountry at the moment, and is different from the perfect ideal lineup. There is a good chance that it may change depending on your purpose, season, and the person's ability and style, and please understand that there may be better equipment and items that I don't know yet. We hope you will read this as a reference, including your thinking, to help people imagine how to actually bring these tools to backcountry.
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table of contents
- Selection criteria (reposted)
- List of regular equipment for the 2023 season and comments (skiing/snow mountain climbing gear)
- Skis: RMU Butterknife SR126 / ATOMIC BENT CHETLER 120 (used depending on the snow and humidity)
- Binding: G3 ION 12
- Ski boots: K2 DISPATCH PRO
- Ski pole: Black Diamond Carbon Whippet pole (2 pieces)
- Ski stickers (climbing skin): POMOCA FREE PRO 2.0/Climbing 2.0
- Backpack: Osprey Soledenpro 32/THE NORTH FACE Chugatchi Guide 45
- Avalanche Beacon: PIEPS Micro BT
- Snow Shovel & Probe: ARVA ACCESS TS/MAMMUT Probe 240
- Thermal bottle: SOTO Titanium Bottle 300
- Clampon & Harness: BLUE ICE Harfang Tour & BLUE ICE Caucas Light
- Auxiliary ropes & carabiners and slings: 6mm or 8mm x 20m ropes, carabiners and slings are suitable
- Other accessories
- We have created a list of all the equipment and items we have worn.
- summary
Selection criteria (reposted)
When choosing tools, I was particularly conscious of the following three points, in order of high:
- Even in snowy mountains, you will enter valleys and streams that are difficult to escape and are dangerous to avalanches, so it is only natural that you will be more careful than usual.
- Lighter than that... It's important not to waste unnecessary physical strength and be able to exert mobility in the unlikely event
- More powder... My skiing skills and experience are more important than climbing a crisp slope, powdered, steep slope support.
As expected, we enter dangerous areas during the most dangerous seasons of January and February, so preparing for avalanches and disasters is paramount. Do your best to solve the risks with money, and spend your spare time on the "easy" part.
List of regular equipment for the 2023 season and comments (skiing/snow mountain climbing gear)
Skis: RMU Butterknife SR126 / ATOMIC BENT CHETLER 120 (used depending on the snow and humidity)
Basically, I choose boards with a certain width of waist, based on the standard of sliding the powder from January to February comfortably. My preference is to skis that are light, soft and easy to handle (and put safety prioritizing speed), so the ATOMIC BENT CHETLER 120 is still in use. It has a wide waist and rocker shape that is suitable for powder, and is easy to handle, and has camber, making it easy to turn with 120. With this, you can generally enjoy backcountry anywhere (although on Onpiste, the boards are so fluttering that you won't be able to enjoy them).
However, this season, we particularly wanted to enjoy the maneuvering turns of the powder forest course in Hokkaido, and in order to challenge the limits of thickness, we introduced RMU Butterknife SR126 The asymmetrical shape of a surfing element packed into the skis, and the shape of a vertically cut surfboard is like a split board. The waist is a spectacular 126cm. The only choice is 176cm, a little shorter than my height, but fortunately it's the perfect size for me to use in the backcountry. It's light, soft, and easy to turn boards with a locker and camber that you like, and the radius on the inside edge is small at 17m, and even deep powder allows the crookle board to spin, making it a great success during the tour of Asahikawa and Niseko in February. The number of moss has also been drastically reduced even on difficult forest slopes in the Satoyama. I also didn't expect this, but I also enjoyed the fact that even though I was on skis, I was able to play quite a bit on the bowl-like terrain of the Sawasuji. It may not be suitable for people who want speed or want to make a high-speed turn on Big Mountain, but it's perfect for beginners like me to experience the floating feel and the joy of turning, which is the real joy of powder.
It should be noted that there is no climbing skin that fits perfectly with this board. Ski skins usually lack the width (140mm is not enough), and splitboard skins usually lack the length (it's at most 160cm). . . This was a bit of a pain. I searched the internet but no one wrote the answer, and according to the information, it seems that they usually use the splitboard skins for a long time. . So I consulted with the store clerk and tried out various things and found that the one that fits best the POMOCA Crime 2.0 splitboard. Be careful when choosing this board.
For reference, other lineups are used depending on the snow and humidity and mountains.
- K2 COOMBA (West 104, Length 177)...For spring tour skiing. Ultra-lightweight, perfect for spring skiing due to its perfect waist width and good balance.
- Black Crows Skis BLACKCROWS CAMOX (West 97, Length 180)...For slopes and slope powders. It is the most stable slide when leveling.
- 4FRNT Hoji (West 112, Length 187)...All-round powder (I wanted to ride a full rocker, so it's fun to slide, but it's difficult to hike up steeply)
Binding: G3 ION 12
As for the so-called tech pin bindings for backcountry, we first started with the basic Dynafit ST ROTATION moved on to MARKER KINGPIN M-WERKS and SALOMON S/LAB SHIFT MNC from the perspective of emphasizing gliding we tried out all the popular models from major manufacturers, such as the FRITSCHI TECTON and G3 ION All of them were basically satisfied, and I've seen each of them with their excellent advantages, but overall, I've now come to the G3 ION .
Of course, models with excellent sliding performance (KINGPIN and SIFT) are excellent in stability and safety. However, the weight is bulky, and the benefits of a light board cannot be taken advantage of. And while this stable gliding is more effective in hard edging at high-speed turns, it is not yet necessary for a safe sliding like my own. I'm more pleased with the lighter weight, overall ease of use, including hiking, and a good balance.
In this respect, this G3 ION was the most balanced binding that met all of the above needs. It's not that light, but it stands out from the other models in terms of ease of use, with a durable, resistant to breaking even when handled roughly, a toe area that makes it easy to set up and down with ski boots, a two-stage, easy-to-operate heel lifter, a ski clamp that allows you to quickly put on and take off without taking off your skis, and ski brakes come standard with a standard ski brake. Of course, the hold when skiing is inferior to the above mentioned KINGPIN, SIFT, and TECTON, but if it was my own level of sliding, I didn't feel that unstable on the surface that was particularly bothering me.
Ski boots: K2 DISPATCH PRO
I've also experienced changes in my preferences for backcountry ski boots over the past three or four years. First, I bought the ultra-light tour boots, the SCARPA F1 EVO , which I couldn't enjoy skiing on Hakuba, and then I quickly moved on to the TECNICA COCHISE 120 (model 17/18) Now that you can finally enjoy skiing, and last year's SALOMON SHIFT PRO 130 AT was introduced as a further step forward. The fit, the hold and the comfort of the cushions were literally the highest level in the sliding area.
However, for some reason, it doesn't go well with hiking up, and after walking for two hours, the skin under the inner ankle always peels off. I tried all the heat molding, socks, insoles and pads, but I couldn't get any fundamental improvements.
So, in order to explore a new route this season, I tried it out and was very satisfied with the K2 authentic tour boots DISPATCH PRO . The TourFit BOA liner installed on the inner boots not only provides an outstanding fit and completely eliminates blisters, but the 1500g light weight, the Vibram outsole and 60 degree range of motion allow for an incredibly comfortable hike. On the other hand, the sliding mode is also quite excellent. The 4 buckles can be secured firmly, and the flex is 130, making it firm, so force can be transmitted to the board firmly. So far, I don't see any shortcomings so quickly that I think there may not be any boots that surpass this.
Ski pole: Black Diamond Carbon Whippet pole (2 pieces)
Even in the backcountry, an ice axe is a must-have when climbing high mountains or steep slopes that exceed the forest limits, as well as walking on rocky areas, or when traveling on unknown routes that are not familiar to you. However, even so, it is rare to walk with a solid stone thrust like when climbing a mountain in the winter, and in many cases it is not necessary to use it as a size or weight to be used as a fulcrum. It is more convenient to use it as a hold on small steep slopes, or as an anti-slip when you wear skis and lose your balance.
Until now, I used to carry lightweight aluminum ice axes (Petzl Ride), but after seeing them being used by my mountain friends, I finally introduced the "Whippet Pole" this season. A whippet pole is a ski pole with the head part (pic) of an axe, and is a pole that looks like it's a good idea to find the convenience of stock and the safety of the axe.
This means that you don't have to hurry up and take out your axe after entering a dangerous area and then leave it when it's finished, which will dramatically increase your sense of security and mobility on the job site. Compared to axes, it is lighter and compact, so you can take it out without hesitation even in situations where you don't have enough axes to hold them, and in situations where you may be a little worried, it can be used as a convenient hold, which will ultimately improve safety. I don't think it's a problem to have one, but I always use it by holding two left and right sides, focusing on balance. However, while it's convenient to say something difficult, it's a bit heavy and tiring to the shoulders. . . However, since you can lend one side to someone who didn't have an axe, you can rest assured that you can have two bottles in your hands. Incidentally, the pick part is removable, so it can also be used as a regular pole if you don't need a slope or anything else.
Ski stickers (climbing skin): POMOCA FREE PRO 2.0/Climbing 2.0
Climbing skins come in a variety of options, but they are expensive and difficult to try, making them one of the tools that makes it difficult to come across as a model called "this." been on a long journey to find the best model for the past few years, starting with my first collltex Clariden As usual, each manufacturer has its pros and cons, and although all of these products provide a certain level of satisfaction, unfortunately there are no models that are satisfying in all of them.
POMOCA is still a manufacturer that is "almost certain." The basic climbing and sliding performance is good, and the adhesiveness of the stickers is strong and lasts a long time. I have never experienced any fatal deterioration even when wet or freezing. The front and rear attachments are both excellent in fixing power and versatility, so you can rest assured. Furthermore, it is lightweight, compact and easy to carry, and has few drawbacks. The FREE PRO 2.0 in particular is thin and easy to handle, and the climbing and sliding are well balanced, so it's my favorite. This is used for the ATOMIC board. Unfortunately, since the 145mm width of this model is not available no matter where you look, I have no choice but to use the 145mm size of Crime 2.0 for the RMU board, but I have little complaints except for the slightly bulky one.
By the way, when folding the sticker, the Caravan Easy Skin Saver is a very important item for me personally. With this, you can store (and re-paste) smoothly even on ridges, where quick transitions are required from climbing to skiing in strong winds. Be sure to check it out.
Backpack: Osprey Soledenpro 32/THE NORTH FACE Chugatchi Guide 45
I try to fit in with a backpack equipped with an avalanche airbag whenever possible with modern backcountry skis that involve sliding around powder on valleys. I've written a lot about this backpack , but I'm addicted to the comfort of my backpack, which overturns the conventional wisdom of avalanche airbags. It puts a load on your lower back, and the waist buckle is easy to tighten, and the back panel is also very firm and the shoulder harness cushioning is good. Storage is also a plus. The latest airbag system powered by super capacitors is also reliable and easy to use, making it a highly qualified student. Furthermore, the 2022-23 model has been updated to the latest airbag system, making it even lighter (and in return, the price has also increased dramatically...). The only thing that's a shame is that I would like another larger size (40L). Also, as I learned from using it thoroughly for a year, when I packed my luggage in a full load, the zipper that houses the airbags often started to burst (every time, I zip it up again and sweat). However, this is not just a common occurrence in this pack, but avalanche airbags, so the manufacturer is eager to improve them.
On the other hand, if you have a route with extremely low avalanche risk, a regular backcountry snowpack is much easier. In this case, many manufacturers offer many options, but I love a larger backpack because I have a lot of things to bring, so I especially like THE NORTH FACE Chugatchi Guide 45 With a minimum weight, it has a large capacity (a wide capacity adjustment range), is highly stolen, easy to put in and take out, and the back fits well. I also really like the very stable feel to carry.
Avalanche Beacon: PIEPS Micro BT
The 3-announced avalanche beacon is the smallest and lightest in the lineup of PIEPS , a long-established snow safety gear brand Many manufacturers currently have the option of choosing beacons, which are essential for searching for buried people during an avalanche, but it is almost impossible to compare them on the field, so it is currently difficult to tell which beacons are actually better for the high price (I would like to compare and review them on this site this year!). However, in fact, there are quite a few differences in antenna reception sensitivity, operability, and detailed usability, and it is not well known that there are models with stronger quirks than you might think. Among these, I personally recommend this PIEPS micro BT (by the way, the one I used up until recently was the MAMMUT Barryvox).
The main attraction is that it is lightweight, and although it is not the longest, it is also wide enough (long). Additionally, it is not to be overlooked that the search area is spherical and has a more likely chance of searching for buried people (in a shorter time) than other manufacturers. Furthermore, even in the world of avalanche gear, you can feel the same convenience as regular electronic devices, such as the Bluetooth-connected smartphone app checking the device's status, training modes for practical practice, and software updates to the main unit instantly.
Snow Shovel & Probe: ARVA ACCESS TS/MAMMUT Probe 240
It's not something you can do if you use it actively, but for gears that are usually rarely available to use other than pit checks (avalanche risk checks), I keep in mind that I will reduce the weight as much as possible as possible as possible (of course, it is extremely important in the unlikely event of an emergency, so minimum performance is required). This is the ARVA ACCESS TS . Now, like in this case, there is no dissatisfaction if you are carrying it with you in case you are set up in a snowy mountain, but if you are sure you will be able to dig or harden the snow for a long time, such as setting up a tent on a snowy mountain, you will need a more sturdy and highly workable model.
To be honest, I'm not that particular about the probe. I would normally prefer a 3m one, but I'm still using MAMMUT Probe 240
Thermal bottle: SOTO Titanium Bottle 300
I've been waiting for something like this! SOTO released last fall and although it is not the best in heat retention, it is an extremely lightweight and compact thermo bottle. Avalanche airbags have a small capacity and are heavy, so the lightweight and compact thermo bottle is useful, and this is exactly what makes them perfect. If you are staying in a mountain tent in a harsh winter during the winter, I'm not sure about this heat retention and capacity, but if you're on a day trip backcountry, this is enough.
Clampon & Harness: BLUE ICE Harfang Tour & BLUE ICE Caucas Light
In this case, there is no assumption that long walking or rappelling on the rocky ridge. For this reason, we use the same criteria as the shovel mentioned earlier, where climbing items that we carry at the level that we may use. Also, as I wrote earlier, I haven't been able to use Ice axe as it has now been replaced by a Whippet pole.
There, we talked about the remaining climbing equipment, the clampons and harnesses. BLUE ICE recently . This is a French climbing-specific brand that produces extremely minimal, light and functional products. the Harfang series from Clampon has an innovative and creative structure that is particularly easy to store and is easy to put on and take off compared to other lightweight Clampons. When it comes to lightweight clamps for BC, the PETZL leopard has been the most likely option, but to be honest, it is likely to replace them by a small margin in the future. Regarding harnesses, this Caucus series is perfect for me as its ultra-lightweight design, perfect for use in any case or temporary situation, from summer climbing to winter backcountry.
Auxiliary ropes & carabiners and slings: 6mm or 8mm x 20m ropes, carabiners and slings are suitable
The last thing you should have at a party is a rope about 20m. When skiing backcountry skiing, it is not uncommon to encounter cases where the stream is not filled up, especially when it comes to skiing down streams. In such cases, it is very possible that in some cases it is necessary to take off your skis and climb down or rappel down. In such cases, you can rest assured that you have an 8mm x 20m rope.
However, this actually weighs quite a lot, so to be honest, I think it's difficult to carry it with you on any mountain hike. At such times, a mountain friend tried to carry a light 6mm x 20m rope, which is not particularly strong, but is not very strong. I found this to be surprisingly convenient as a minimum rope to carry, and recently I've been trying it out. This is strong enough to be used as a clue so that you can hold your foot down even if you slip when you descend during a traverse or kick step, and is much better than not taking it with you in the unlikely event, or rather, it's a great help. It's a tool you don't really want to use, but I think it's a good idea to have it in case of an emergency. *Of course, this usage is not a legitimate method, so you should take the results of this at your own risk.
Other accessories
- Snow Saw or Wire Saw (for pit checks to measure avalanche risk. 1 for parties)
- Wax (ski wax, climbing skin wax)
- Repair tools (drivers, pliers, scissors, wire, duct tape, etc.)
- Brush (convenient for removing snow from climbing skins)
- Ski straps (You can secure your skis with an A-frame, or you can use it to secure anything in the unlikely event, so you must bring at least two of them with you)
- Wireless/Transceivers (even small digital simple radios)
- Replacement gloves
- towel
- Food and drinking water
- Headlamp and spare battery
- Knife/Multitool
- Compass whistle
- map
- First aid supplies
- Zelt or emergency sheet
- Smartphone
- Toilet supplies
- Duct tape
- Emergency communication device Cocoheli
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Identification, insurance card, mountain climbing notification
We have created a list of all the equipment and items we have worn.
I've written about the first and second parts, but I've created a Google Sheet with a list of all my belongings once again. It's ugly, with comments or links, but please use it if you like.
[Outdoor Gearzine] Day trip backcountry ski equipment list
summary
Over the past few years, BC's popularity seems to have been increasing, but at the same time, many sad accidents have started to notice. Every time, people who don't know anything often criticize them as reckless acts (and in the first place, there are so many people who criticize them without knowing the big picture), and I have to say that the current situation is so sad that they have to feel uncomfortable than they did at one point.
Of course, I'm sure most people have a solid sense of crisis and follow the rules to play, but it is also true that the tools they need to carry will also change as the tools they need to carry will evolve and change. In particular, avalanche safety gear is rapidly evolving through technology, and I think airbags and other gear will become essential for BC in the not-too-distant future. In that sense, even if you are accustomed to travel, it would be a good idea to always review your equipment, with the awareness that BC is a game where you enter particularly dangerous areas even in snowy mountains at dangerous times.
I hope that this list will serve as a reference for those who are currently enjoying backcountry, and at the same time, it will help people who are looking to try backcountry for the first time to imagine what tools they should have.
Snow season is finally coming back. It's now the season for spring's rough snow, and for a while, you'll be able to experience the deepest joys of backcountry. Well then, take care of each other and have a good season.
