This is a gear list I use for an average day
of backcountry skiing. Some of it is individual,
some of it group. Light is great, depending
on how much risk you are willing to take.
Sub in snowshoes if needed (and then add
gaitors).
Ski stuff
- Skis
- Boots
- Poles
- Skins
- Helmet
- Goggles
- Repair kit w/screwdriver, knife, tape,
pole sleeve or splint, couple screws, spare
cable, skin wax, something to bend with (pliers
or tiny cresent wrench)- this depends on
how far you are going, how far you're willing
to ski one-legged, etc.
Avy stuff
- Shovel
- Probe
- Saw marked w/inches
- Avy beacon
- Inclinometer (some compasses have this
feature)
- Magnifying glass
- Thermometer
- Notebook w/pencil
Other basic gear
- Pack
- Camp chair/foam pad (optional if you are
willing to sit on your pack)
- One or two water bottles (w/lukewarm liquid,
in an insulated sleeve, and/or carried upside-down
so the threads don't freeze)
- Thermos of your favorite hot libations
- First aid kit, including handwarmer heat
packs AND MATCHES
Clothes
- Pants, some sort of stretch-woven (and/or
goretex shell with side zips for venting)
- Wool uns, or longies if it's really cold
- Light zip t-neck top, either wool or Capilene
- Medium pile jacket
- Vest if it's really cold
- Socks (whatever fits in the boots, but
knee-high to prevent seam rub)
- Jacket- stretch-woven and/or goretex shell
- Puffy insulating jacket
- Hat and neck gaitor (unless your jackets
have hoods)
- Gloves/mittens- I like shells with multiple
liner sets
Misc.
- Map and compass
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen and lip stuff
- Camera
- Bivy bag or space blanket
- Baby headlamp
- Radios?
