Pack Smart

Backcountry skiing is the best way to sample endless untracked powder—but when things get hairy, you can’t look to a ski patroller for help. People get hurt, break equipment, or get hypothermia, and without the right gear, the situation can escalate quickly. Before every trip to the backcountry, spend a few minutes to check for these basic items. I can’t count how many times one of these things changed a potential disaster into just another day of perfect skiing.

  • Beacon
  • Shovel
  • Probe
  • Snow Saw
  • Water
  • Food
  • Down Layer
  • Hard Shell
  • Headlamp
  • Lighter
  • Sunglasses
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Skins
  • Helmet
  • Goggles
  • Gloves
  • Thin Gloves or Glove Liners
  • Extra Batteries
  • Duct Tape
  • Strap
  • Emergency Beer