How To Start Backcountry Skiing

Backcountry skiing, along with being an exhilarating sport, is a way to appreciate untouched, snowy landscapes that may usually remain out of reach for outdoor explorers.

Backcountry skiing isn't for the fainthearted – it requires elements of both mountaineering and skiing – but the scenes can be well worth it.

If you are ready to adventure beyond the well-travelled slopes and take your adventuring to the next level, Mont Adventure Equipment is here with a guide to help you get started with the right backcountry skiing equipment. 

What Is Backcountry Skiing?

Backcountry skiing involves skiing in more remote areas outside of traditional slopes and ski resorts. It requires specialised equipment and skills to navigate tricky terrain and weather conditions safely. Backcountry skiing requires advanced level skiing skills and isn't for beginners in the sport.  

How To Prepare for Backcountry Skiing 

1. Take an Avalanche Safety Course. Before you step foot into the backcountry, taking an avalanche safety course in your area is essential. Avalanches are an important consideration when setting off into out-of-bounds skiing areas. In an avalanche safety course, you will learn the necessary skills to safely navigate avalanche-prone areas and the rescue techniques that could prove lifesaving.
2. Start with a Guide or Experienced Group. There is a bit of an ongoing debate on the topic of going backcountry skiing alone. While sometimes it can be your only choice when you don’t have a group to venture out with, solo touring is inherently riskier than travelling with others. This is especially true if you’re just starting out.
3. Learn How to Understand Weather and Terrain. Knowing how to read weather reports and understand how the different weather conditions can affect avalanche risk is an important skill to have before you attempt any backcountry skiing. There are different challenges that come with different terrain and conditions. It is important to learn the appropriate safety routes for different terrain.
4. Build Your Fitness. Backcountry skiing requires a high level of physical fitness and specific muscle strength. To help train the right muscles, taking part in other activities like hiking, trail runningand cycling are great ways to build your overall stamina and strength.  

 

 

How To Train for Backcountry Skiing: Building Fitness

There are certain other activities that you can practice in a safer environment that will help prepare your body and muscles for the physical demand of backcountry skiing.

• Skiing: The obvious choice here would be to train your skills with skis on foot. While the action of downhill skiing and backcountry skiing differ pretty severely, feeling comfortable and strong in skis is the first step to taking your adventure off grid.
• Hiking: Strong hiking skills are transferable to backcountry skiing. The endurance, navigation and ability to handle varied terrain are all directly applicable.
• Skating: Ice skating can improve your balance and lower body strength, both crucial skills for skiing. Skating also requires a similar rhythm to skiing.
• Climbing: Skills from rock climbing, such as route finding and rope handling are beneficial, especially in more technical backcountry terrain. 

How To Choose the Right Backcountry Ski Gear

Choosing the right backcountry skiing gear for your backcountry skiing adventure is an important aspect for both performance and safety. 

Start with the Boots

Your ski boots are the foundation. A good pair of backcountry boots should offer support on the downhill, flex for the uphill, and a fit that won’t have you unbuckling halfway through the tour. Comfort counts, and so does tech compatibility if you're planning on using pin bindings.

Match Them with the Right Bindings

Speaking of bindings—they're your link between boot and ski. Tech bindings are lightweight and ideal for long climbs, while hybrid options provide a little more bite on the descent. Just make sure they suit your boot and style of skiing.

Choose Skis That Can Handle the Climb and the Ride

Backcountry skis should be light enough for the skin track, but still give you confidence on the way down. Look for a balance of width and weight, with enough camber and rocker to float in pow but still carve when it’s firm. Versatility is key.

Skins: Non-Negotiable for the Uphill

To get uphill, you’ll need skins. Mohair is fast, synthetic grips hard, and blends give you the best of both worlds. Make sure they’re cut to match your skis—and pack a backup tail strap just in case.

Accessories That Make All the Difference

Don’t forget the extras. Ski crampons are a must when things get icy. Ice axes are essential if you’re bootpacking steep terrain. And adjustable poles? Total game-changer for skinning comfort and packability.

To be prepared for anything, part of your backcountry ski gear should include avalanche safety gear including a beacon, probe, shovel, ski crampons, ice axe & whippets. Lastly, a sturdy ski backpack with enough compartments to carry the items you needs is essential. 

 

 

How To Dress for Backcountry Skiing

Layering is the key to staying comfortable when backcountry skiing. Start with thermals and base layers to keep sweat off your skin. Add insulating mid layers for warmth and top with waterproof, breathable outer layers to protect against wind and snow. Don't forget a good hat, snow gloves and ski goggles to shield you from the backcountry elements. 

Mont Adventure Equipment are Your Backcountry Skiing Equipment Experts

Backcountry skiing, although rewarding, is a challenge that needs to be sufficiently prepared for. At Mont, we provide the gear and equipment to get your backcountry skiing journey started but the rest is up to you! 

If you are unsure about what ski gear is right for you, feel free to speak to one of our experts and contact us today. Mont also offer backcountry skiing equipment for hire, from skis to boots, skins, poles and much more! Embrace the adventure, respect the mountains and enjoy the scenes of backcountry skiing!