Gear up before hitting the backcountry

Black Crows Crox Freebird are 95 mm underfoot and good for mixed conditions. (Black Crows)

Seasoned resort skiers looking to get into the backcountry for the first time realize it requires more thought and preparation than simply steering your skis into the woods. Unlike skiing within the boundaries, which are designed with safety measures and easy access to amenities, the backcountry is an entirely different beast.

Self-reliance is critical, which is made more challenging by the significant aerobic efforts required during ascents and the variable conditions confronting skiers on the way back down. Equipment needs to be both light and rugged, and — unlike in the resort — your backpack needs to be filled with essentials that ultimately could save your life if things suddenly go sideways.

Equipping yourself with the best gear is only part of the equation. Backcountry skiing requires knowledge and skills to stay safe. Invest time in avalanche safety courses, practice using your equipment, and research your routes thoroughly. Always check the avalanche forecast and weather conditions before heading out, and never travel alone.

While some of your trusty resort gear might cross over on certain off-piste adventures, backcountry excursions require equipment with significantly more flexibility. Below is a gear checklist to help make your first backcountry skiing adventure comfortable, efficient and safe.

Base layers

Start with moisture-wicking base layers made of Merino wool or synthetic materials. These will regulate your temperature and keep sweat away from your skin. Avoid cotton at all costs as it traps moisture and ultimately will deplete your core temp. Products to consider include Smartwool Merino 250 base layers or Patagonia Capilene midweight crew and bottoms.

Midlayers

Midlayers provide insulation during cold ascents and while resting. Lightweight fleeces and insulated jackets are ideal. The Arc’teryx Atom LT hoody, for instance, is a lightweight, compressible jacket with synthetic insulation to provide warmth. It can be worn alone or beneath a weather-proof shell. The Patagonia R1 Air full-zip hoody is another good option. The quick-drying technical fleece is designed for high-exertion activities in cold conditions with fabric made of 100 percent recycled polyester.

Shell layers

Waterproof and windproof shell jackets and pants are essential for protecting against snow, wind and rain. Look for gear with waterproof and breathable materials like Gore-Tex with venting to release moisture during high-output activities. Products like the Outdoor Research Hemispheres jacket and bib pants, or the Black Diamond Recon stretch shell make excellent choices for backcountry skiing. The Hemispheres set features Gore-Tex fabric with stretch technology, fully seam-taped construction, and hem-to-pit venting. The Recon combines durable four-way stretch fabric with BD.dry tech, a waterproof and breathable weave. Mesh internal drop pockets will hold skins or extra layers, and helmet-compatible hood provides added protection on storm days.

Skis, boots and bindings

Your ski setup is perhaps the most critical component of your backcountry gear, as it directly impacts how comfortable you are (and how much energy you expend) on climbs, as well as what level of performance you’ll get on descents.

Skis

Backcountry skis typically are lighter than resort skis to make uphill travel easier. Consider the type of terrain you’ll explore. Narrower skis are better for long tours, while wider skis excel in deep powder. The Black Crows Camox Freebird (95 mm underfoot) are popular because they are versatile and lightweight, ideal for mixed conditions. Another popular choice is the DPS Pagoda Tour 106 C2. This ski’s C2 shape provides float, stability and maneuverability in powder. The Pagoda “pre-preg” carbon construction eliminates any extra weight without sacrificing downhill performance.

Boots

Walk modes, tech binding compatibility and performance liners with customizable fits are essential features that differentiate backcountry boots from resort-oriented models. The Scarpa Maestrale RS alpine touring boot remains a classic choice that balances uphill mobility and downhill power. The walk mode provides 60degrees of cuff rotation for efficient skinning, and the 125 flex Grilamid shell offers alpine boot-inspired descending characteristics. Tecnica’s Zero G Tour Pro Boot is a lightweight four-buckle boot designed for efficient ascents without sacrificing downhill performance. Grilamid construction offers weight savings and lateral stability, while the 130 flex delivers stiff downhill performance for powerful skiers.

Bindings

Tech bindings (pin bindings) are the backcountry standard due to their lightweight design and uphill efficiency. The Dynafit ST Rotation 10 (both reliable and user-friendly) and the Marker Alpinist 12 (lightweight and great for touring) are popular options, but generally not recommended for full-time resort use. Skiers looking to combine a resort set-up with their backcountry excursions might consider a hybrid binding like the Salomon S/Lab Shift2 MNC, which is beefier (and heavier) than a tech binding but features toe and heel pieces that provide improved security and power transfer.

Skins

Climbing skins attach to the base of your skis to provide grip during uphill travel. Look for durable, easy-to-use synthetic options like Black Diamond’s Glidelite Mix STS skins. Some skins are customized to fit specific skis, but they are easily cut to match the sidecuts of virtually any ski on the market. Custom-cutting skins and/or installing tip loops are a service most ski shops will provide for nominal cost.

Accessories

Socks: Choose medium-weight, moisture-wicking ski socks, such as Darn Tough OTC socks.

Gloves: Carry a pair of lightweight gloves for the ascent and insulated gloves for the descent (e.g., Hestra Heli Ski gloves).

Hat: A breathable beanie or lightweight cap for uphill efforts, plus a balaclava for colder conditions.

Goggles: Opt for goggles with interchangeable lenses for varying light conditions, such as Smith I/O Mag goggles.

Helmet: A lightweight, backcountry-specific helmet like the Salomon MTN Lab offers protection and ventilation.

Essential gear

While the New England backcountry poses a lower avalanche risk than Western destinations — with a few notable exceptions like Tuckerman Ravine at Mount Washington — carrying equipment to locate a buried skier and dig them out is paramount. These items are non-negotiable and must be carried on every outing.

Backpack: A backcountry-specific backpack is essential for carrying your gear. Look for a pack with enough volume and compartments for your avalanche tools, hydration compatibility and ski carry straps. Osprey Soelden Pro 32 (lightweight and avalanche airbag compatible) and Black Diamond Cirque 35 (streamlined and versatile) are two options.

Beacon: The BCA Tracker 3 is an excellent choice for its ease of use and reliability.

Shovel: A lightweight, durable shovel like the Black Diamond Transfer LT is essential for digging out in an emergency.

Probe: The Mammut Carbon 240 is compact, lightweight and effective. Ensure you’re trained in using this gear and practice regularly before heading out.

GPS device: Garmin inReach Mini for navigation and emergency communication.

Hydration system: A 2-liter hydration bladder with insulated tubing to prevent freezing, like the CamelBak Crux.

Snacks: High-calorie, easy-to-eat snacks such as energy bars, nuts and dried fruit.

Emergency kit: Include items like a small first-aid kit, multi-tool repair kit for bindings and skins, headlamp with extra batteries, and an emergency bivy sack.

Friends: Without question, the most important safety “item” is adventuring with friends. Most backcountry experts recommend touring in groups of at least three, which allows for one to stay with an injured party while another goes for help.