Avalanche Beacons & Gear

Essential Avalanche Equipment for the Backcountry

Individuals skiing or snowboarding off-piste and in backcountry areas are strongly recommended to carry avalanche gear. The trio of vital equipment consists of an avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel. Equally crucial is ensuring that the user is trained in the event of an avalanche. All of these items can be accommodated in a ski backpack that can be securely fastened to your body.

Utilising Avalanche Equipment

To gain skills in the use of avalanche gear, one should enrol in a course led by an expert. This part offers a straightforward explanation regarding the purpose of each item.

Avalanche Beacon

These beacons are worn close to the body, emitting a continuous radio signal detectable by others. In search situations, the beacon can be switched to "search mode" to detect the desired radio signal and locate the person beneath the snow.

Avalanche Probe

The probe pinpoints the precise location and depth of a person buried under the snow. It resembles a collapsible tent pole and is used to penetrate the snow to determine the exact spot of the skier.

Avalanche Shovel

The shovel is used to excavate the skier. Typically, they are constructed with removable handles, making them easy to store in a backpack.

Airbag Packs

An additional safety gear piece that proves highly beneficial is the airbag pack. Worn like a backpack, it can be activated by pulling a handle to rapidly inflate the airbag using compressed air or a fan. The extra volume helps keep the skier nearer the snow surface and avalanche debris, minimising the risk of becoming buried.

For further details and products suitable for backcountry skiing, visit - Alpine Touring Skis.