Essential Gear for Backcountry Adventures This Spring

With spring here and the snow resorts winding down their operations you may think that the 2017 alpine season is coming to an end. Not so! The Australian Backcountry has only just gotten started. Discover the snow beyond the ski lifts and experience a richer, more rewarding alpine experience.

Here we have compiled a list of the essential gear required for backcountry adventures be it snow shoeing, cross country skiing, ice climbing or alpine touring.

IMPORTANT
Alpine environments are prone to rapid & extreme changes in weather conditions, having the right equipment is critical for the safety of you and your group.

Use this list to check that you possess all the gear required for adventures into an alpine environment. For any gear that you are unsure of contact Mont Adventure Equipment, experts in alpine clothing & equipment.

ESSENTIAL CLOTHING

• Thermal Long Pants, Polartec/synthetic, NOT COTTON. Men’s // Women’s
• Thermal Top, Polartec/synthetic, NOT COTTON. Men’s // Women’s
• 1 or 2 Mid layer fleece for active use, Polartec 100 weight or Power Stretch Pro fleece, NOT
• COTTON. Men’s // Women’s
• Hooded shell jacket: Waterproof, windproof, breathable. Men’s // Women’s
• Shell pants: Waterproof, windproof, breathable. Men’s // Women’s
• Insulated jacket: down or synthetic. Men’s// Women’s
• Warm Socks 2 pairs, NOT COTTON // Men’s // Women’s
• Beanie
• Ski gloves
• Spare socks, NOT COTTON
• Spare gloves

ESSENTIAL GEAR

• Sleeping bag rated to at least -12ºC
• Insulated sleeping mattress suitable for snow camping
• 4 Season Tent. Save weight by sharing
• Touring Skis, Touring Ski Boots and Climbing Skins
• OR
• Snow Shoes
• Ski Poles
• Climbing Harness (if climbing)
• Ice Axe suitable for assisted walking and self arrest
• Bowl, mug, cutlery
• Wag bag or similar waste solution
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses and/or ski goggles both with category 4 lenses
• Leak proof water bottle and/or hydration bladder at least 750ml
• Pack large enough for all gear, food and water. Minimum 60L

OPTIONAL GEAR

• Sunhat
• Helmet
• Crampons