Everything You Need to Start Splitboarding (Affordably).
Splitboarding is an unmatched snowboarding experience. It’s just you, your friends, fresh snow, and the beautiful backcountry.
However, like many outdoor activities, getting into splitboarding can be a daunting process. It’s dangerous, it requires a lot of gear, and quite frankly, that gear can be expensive as hell.
Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to go out on your first splitboard tour, breaking down what you should check for at EGT(marked with a *) and what you should buy new.
Proper layers*
Layering properly is essential for splitboarding. It will make or break your day. Having too many layers will end up taking up too much room in your pack, and not enough will have you shivering your ass off on the summit. This is the layering system we would recommend:
-Merino-wool base layers: they’re moisture-wicking, they’re warm, and they’re lightweight.
-Warm mid-layer: This could be a fleece, a sweatshirt, or a lightweight puffer. You can judge what will be best depending on the weather during your tour.
-Waterproof (gore-tex) Shell: We always recommend Gore-Tex in Oregon as far as waterproofing goes, especially for touring as it’s extremely breathable and waterproof. The last thing you want is to be cold and wet in the middle of your ride.
Avalanche Gear (Beacon, Shovel*, and Probe*)
Anytime you’re in the backcountry it’s important to bring your avalanche gear, not only for your own safety, but also for the safety of your partners.
Beacon: Your beacon is the most important piece of gear you’ll bring on your tour. It will let you find your partners if they’re trapped in an avalanche and vise versa. We don’t carry beacons at EGT because we recommend you buy it new. Even if it is brand-new, fresh out the box, we recommend you test you and your partners beacons, before every tour. Double-check that they’re communicating properly (in both search and transit modes) and charged with plenty of battery before heading out.
Shovel: We recommend a shovel that packs down small and light, and fits well in your personal pack. You want something you feel comfortable accessing and using efficiently in an emergency situation.
Probe: 280mm probes are recommended in Oregon. This should be long enough to find your partner in most emergency situations. Like your other safety gear, re-familiarize yourself with it before every outing. Make sure you feel comfortable accessing and deploying your probe in a fast-paced emergency situation.
Touring Pack*
Any old backpack will get the job done; however, a specified touring pack is highly recommended. They’re often water resistant and have an easily accessible pocket designated for your avalanche gear (shovel and probe).
You'll be using your backpack a lot. Shoving gear in and out of it all day on the skin-track whether you’re shedding layers, putting more on, taking out skins, grabbing water/snacks, etc. For this reason, it’s good to find a pack with several compartments.
It’s important to have your avalanche gear in it’s own compartment whenever possible as it makes for easier access in emergency situations.
Splitboard*
This will be the most expensive piece of gear you’ll need. We recommend always checking our shop first, because a used splitboard is just as fun as a brand new one, and it’ll save you a bunch of cash.
If you’re splitboarding to find deep, untouched snow you might want to size up a few centimeters. The extra length will give you more float and maneuverability in the powder, but keep in mind that the more board you have going downhill is more board to carry uphill as well. Steep kick turns can be very tricky with a board that’s too long.
Bindings*
Unfortunately, your normal bindings won’t work, but luckily this is something we accept for consignment at EGT. Look for something that feels good on your feet, and fits your boot size.
Skins*
When we get splitboards on consignment here at EGT, most of the time they come with skins. If not, it’s best to buy uncut skins whenever possible, so you can make sure they fit perfectly on your own board. Skins that don’t fit properly will decrease grip and make for some rough climbs.
Touring poles*
Collapsable poles are more than ideal for splitboarding. When you finish your climb you can pack them down nice and small, and stow them away neatly in your pack for the descent. We often get touring poles in for consignment at the shop, which are incredibly affordable used.
Helmet*
It’s always important to wear a helmet while snowboarding, but especially while touring. The last thing you want is to get a head injury in the backcountry. We carry helmets at our shop as long as they pass our inspection.
Ice Axe & Crampons (optional)*
If you plan on going high-up in the alpine and tackling summits, it never hurts to have an ice axe and crampons on your pack. These pieces of gear are a super-power for steep, icy ascents.
