PLANNING & PACKING FOR SPLITBOARDING
Weston Rider and Local Revelstoke Artist, Claudia "Bambi" Simon gives us the low-down on early season backcountry prepping and packing. Follow @bambibacon for more pow slayin' greatness and @turbobambi_design to check out her iconic art!
DISCLAIMER - Make sure you have proper safety training before heading into the mountains. If you’re new to touring, consider traveling with a guide or joining a mentorship program.
The first snow of the season is one of the most exciting feelings ever, but while it’s still low tide, it’s the perfect time to make sure all your gear is in order.
Rider: Bambi / Photo: Jessy Brown
CHECK YOUR GEAR
Even experienced riders can make mistakes, forget something, or learn something new! Not many sports let you access the hidden gems of the backcountry quite like splitboarding does. As special as it is, it can also be tricky to master. A crucial part of touring starts with your equipment, so testing your gear beforehand is key.
Checklist To Get You Started
- Splitboard: Waxed and includes all functioning hardware.
- Bindings: Ensure all parts are included, and adjust your stance.
- Boots: Should fit comfortably with no pressure or painful points. Heated socks are a game-changer for colder, longer days.
- Skins: Check that the glue is in good shape and straps are holding strong—no rips. • Poles: Make sure all moving parts and mechanisms are working properly. • Backpack: Ensure it’s big enough for your gear and has the right straps and pockets to make the trip go smoothly.
SAFETY GEAR
Let’s talk essentials: beacon, probe, and shovel—your lifeline in case of an avalanche and essential tools for studying the snowpack. While not mandatory, a helmet is a smart addition to protect your dome and keep you shredding for years to come!
SNACKS - IF YOU’RE GOING TO WORK HARD, YOU NEED A TREAT!
I choose my go-to snacks based on weight, size, energy, and minimal cooking required:
- Nuts & dried fruits: Packed with energy, lightweight, and compact.
- Hard-boiled eggs & beef jerky: Great for sustained energy and easy to pack.
- Energy chews: A quick fuel boost for the way up, tasty, and a crowd favorite—if you’re the sharing type!
BACKPACK CHECKLIST
- Beacon/Probe/Shovel
- Skins/Poles
- First Aid Kit + painkillers
- Emergency bivvy/Sam Splint
- Duct Tape/Rope
- Hand warmers/Lighter/Firestarter (mix vaseline and lint = slow burn)
- Multi-Tool/Ski Straps/zap straps
- Collapsible water bottle/Electrolytes tablets
- Ski Straps, zap straps.
- Sunnies/Sunscreen/hat/buff
- Touring gloves
- Whistle
- 2 way radio
- Headlamp
- Мар
- Compass
- Lens wipe/extra lens
- Spare parts/gear (bindings parts, socks, mits)
It’s a fine line between packing light and ensuring you have the essentials for emergencies. No matter if the day’s objective is easy or hard, it’s always best to be prepared for the worst.
BACKPACK HACKS - 2 BIRDS ON STONE
As we gain more experience in the backcountry, we progressively accumulate specialized tools like ice axes, harnesses, and crampons. But the more we carry, the heavier it gets. That’s why items with multiple functions are key to saving space and weight:
- Multi-tool: Replaces a screwdriver, knife, pliers.
- Saw + Sovel combo: Some shovels come with a saw in the handle, making both tools very compact.
- Sunscreen stick: Doubles as a chapstick and sunscreen lotion all-in-one—no leaks!
- Duct tape: Wrap a few layers around your water bottle or shovel handle for compact storage.
- Buff: Works as a headband on the way up and as a neck warmer on the way down.
- Carabiners: Perfect for clipping gear and emergency use.
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Ski straps: Ideal for securing gear, splints, or quick fixes.
Weston Ambassador Bambi guided by Adam Zok @ Blanket Glacier Chalet
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO!
The AST-1 course (Avalanche Safety Training) is a must for any backcountry explorer. It’s an introduction on how to use your equipment, understand snowpack behavior, and navigate terrain safely.
PLAN YOUR ROUTE
Apps and paper maps both have their place pros and cons. Apps & websites to consider:
- Gaia: For route planning, GPS tracking, and detailed maps. Always have a Plan B!
- Avalanche Canada: Avy forecast, conditions, and incident reports.
- Snow-Forecast & Spotwx: Weather forecasts and snow reports.
ACC’s White Out Navigation Training in Rogers Pass, BC, Canada
“BE PROACTIVE AND TRUST YOUR GUT” TRUST YOUR CREW
Out in the wilderness, having an experienced and trustworthy team is essential. Luckily, there are plenty of courses, guided groups, and mentorship programs to help build your confidence. Always be proactive, ask questions, and listen to your gut. We often tend to place our trust with the most experienced riders, but assessing risks and making decisions should always be a team effort.
Troy Leahey leading Capow’s Avalanche Training in Rogers Pass, BC, Canada
Check out these resources in Revelstoke, BC:
- Capow Guiding: Guided tours and avalanche safety courses
- Ascent Mentorship: An all-female backcountry mentorship experience
- Alpine Start Mentorship: For ACC Members
MASTER THE APRÈS SKI
If you’ve made it to après in one piece, well done— you’ve earned it! Relax, recover, and reflect on the day. A sauna session can soothe your muscles, a hot toddy will warm your spirit, and a little Tiger Balm will work wonders on sore legs. Bonus points if your crew regroups to laugh about the day’s adventures and plan the next one.
GO FORTH AND SLAY POW!
The backcountry is as rewarding as it is challenging, but preparation is the foundation of a great experience. Whether it’s dialing in your gear, refreshing your safety skills, or connecting with the right people, every step you take sets you up for success. Beyond the playground, the mountains shape us with their challenges and hard-earned lessons. Get out there, stay safe, and slay pow!
