Backcountry education is a lifelong pursuit. Taking your first steps into the backcountry is a big decision and we recommend following this education framework to do it the right way.
Below you'll find links to watch our Slay at Home video series on YouTube for free or other helpful blogs and links. We cover things like what to expect from fitness, gear recommendations, obtaining the right knowledge to travel safely, and even adventure travel trips to Japan and Canada.
BACKCOUNTRY
EDUCATION PATH
KNOWLEDGE IS POWDER
3 STEPS TO BECOMING COMPETENT IN THE BACKCOUNTRY
YOU'VE GOT THIS
STEP 1
LEARN FROM HOME
In our backcountry basics video below, we cover things like "what the hell is splitboarding and how do you travel up a mountain without a chairlift?" to fitness, and the general basics of how a touring setup functions.
STEP 2
GET THE GEAR
In this video we dive deep into spitboards, skis, avalanche equipment, boots, bindings, layers and more.
TIP: TRY IT BEFORE YOU BUY
Attend an on-resort, backcountry focused demo and try out some gear before you invest in a full set up. Check out our event calendar for demos and events near you.
STEP 3
GET THE EDUCATION
Take a companion rescue course and a Level 1 or AIARE 1 avalanche education course, we also recommend a Wilderness First Aid (WFA).
ADDITIONAL HACKS
BOOK AN INTRO TO BACKCOUNTRY COURSE
Many of our guide partners offer an intro to backcountry course that covers on snow essential skills such as how to use your gear to backcountry tour, basics of using skins, how to go about packing your pack, and basic downhill skiing/riding considerations. This course will help you be prepared for your Avalanche Level 1 course so that you don't hold up your group.
FIND YOUR CREW
Find great partners with similar ability levels. Join the Weston Backcountry Community on Facebook and look for meet-up days or make sure you make friends during your avalanche course.
DON'T FORGET YOUR ESSENTIALS
THE NATIONAL FOREST FOUNDATION
The National Forest Foundation promotes the enhancement and public enjoyment of the 193-million-acre National Forest System. Each year, the NFF restores wildlife habitats, plants trees in areas affected by fires and improves recreational opportunities. Per our commitment to 1% for the Planet, Weston donates at minimum 1% of our yearly revenue to causes that help better our planet.
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