New School Backcountry Skiing is Going Off
Add to Del.icio.usTerrain Parks Hurt-- Backcountry Kickers Rule
by Bryan RhodesBackcountry.com Leads the New School Revolution
We’re going to let you in on a little secret, something we’ve learned after years of research. Don’t tell anyone, but learning new tricks in an icy terrain park really hurts. There is a much better way to practice switch 720’s – go into the backcountry and build a kicker. Landing into a field of powder will save your knees, back and head. Just make sure you have the right tools and knowledge to play safely in the backcountry. We’ve used the following gear on our New School Backcountry adventures.
Salomon Pocket Rocket
With dimensions of 122-90-115, the Salomon Pocket Rocket delivers powder performance in a true twin-tip. With a wide platform under foot you’ll stick landings like never before. The Pocket Rocket is lighter at the tip and tail for quick spins. Stop coming up 90 degrees short on your Misty 540’s. Mount with Salomon S912 Ti Bindings with wide brakes for a lightweight set-up
Backcountry Access Alpine Trekker
Leave your boot packing friends behind with the Backcountry Access Alpine Trekker. They lock into your alpine bindings and allow you to climb backcountry slopes with the ease of a tree hugging telemarker. When you reach the top, remove your Trekkers and proceed to rip.
DaKine Blade Pack
http://www.backcountry.com/store/group/46/b23/Winter-Packs.html
The DaKine Blade Pack holds all of your backcountry tools, lunch and a camera and provides easy access through the top or back panel. The best thing about the Blade is the cross carry system for skis, which is quick to set up, and prevents skis from banging the back of your legs on the climb up.
Giro Nine.9 MX Helmet
No matter how much powder you land in a helmet should be standard equipment when catching big air. The Giro Nine.9 MX Helmet is a great helmet for backcountry use beacuse of its removable earpads and visor. 12 mammoth vents grab cool, fresh air when you’re riding or hiking for glory, and the waterproof Weatherstrip vent pugs stop snow and wind chill.
The Barryvox Tranceiver was introduced in the US a few years ago and has been a huge hit with backcountry enthusiasts of all abilities. It is a giant leap forward in transceiver technology offering both analog and digital search modes and the ability to switch back and forth between the two. A must have for any back country traveler: this item could save your life!
Life-Link IIID Shovel
The Life-Link IIID Shovel is one of the lightest shovels available, yet it will move enough snow to dig out your backcountry partners or build a huge kicker. The polycarbonate blade has a lifetime warranty. These shovels also prove handy in the back of your car for when you plant it in a snow bank!