What Do You Need for a Splitboard Season?
The Splitboard
Riding fresh powder far from crowds and lineups. That’s what splitboarding promises! Like its name implies: it splits in half lengthwise to transform into skis that will take you to new summits by helping you climb. Once you’ve reached your goal, it turns back into a board thanks to the Karakoram clips. In just a few minutes, you can get on your board and have fun riding the fresh powder!
Just like a normal snowboard, there are different types of profiles. First, think about the kind of terrain you will normally ride. In Quebec, an ideal choice is the all-mountain board which is versatile and can adapt to Quebec’s snow conditions.
As far as profiles are concerned, a directional board with a traditional camber or a hybrid rocker camber will allow the rider to float on powder. It will also be easier to maneuver and will have more bite for climbing trails which are often hard, even icy.
The Splitboard Bindings
Splitboard specific bindings are different from your normal snowboard bindings. First, they are light and made to adapt to the board, either in descent mode or walk mode during the climb. Second, these bindings can only function with a puck system, like Voilé’s kit, that must be mounted on the splitboard. Without this system the bindings will not accomplish their mission.
The popular Burton Hitch Hiker features a negative lean highback perfect for steep climbs. These bindings slide in the puck system when the board is put in descent mode. They are equipped with metal tips for mobility.
If you were looking at the K2’s Far Out binding, it’s a whole different system but it’s as efficient. The highbacks are puck mounted and the metal tips are replaced by a hook system.
The Splitboard Boots
The nice thing about splitboarding is that there is no need for special boots. Therefore, the boots you usually wear can be used in the backcountry. However, if you wear very soft boots, it would be preferable to opt for a stiffer model that offers better support.
In the last few years, splitboard specific boots were introduced to the market. Good examples of innovation are the Burton Tourist or the Thirty-Two Jones MTB. The interesting feature of splitboard specific boots is that their sole has more grip, like Vibram soles.
The Splitboard Skins
Essential for this sport, skins are made with synthetic fibers, mohair or a mix of both, they allow for a fluid descent while being efficient on the climb. Skins are stuck to the base of the board, once it’s split, and attached to both extremities with a clip system. The adherence they offer will allow you to explore the backcountry and climb trails.
Adjustable Poles for Splitboard
Choosing well is of utmost importance! Telescopic poles will help you on the climb and to get around, they will also help you adapt to the terrain. Don’t forget, snowboarders don’t need them on the way down! Therefore, they need to be small enough that once retracted they fit in your backpack or can be hung from it without being in the way. Black Diamond poles are always a very good choice.
The Backpack
Since you need to carry the most equipment possible in an organised fashion, the ideal backcountry backpack must be at least 30 liters. This essential must be able to contain lots of water, food, a change of clothes, accessories, a first aid kit and an avalanche safety kit for certain outings.
A good backcountry bag is comfortable, offers good support, is waterproof and resistant. Straps to carry your board are a good option for some types of adventures. An outer mesh pocket for your helmet is also important.
Little tip: always have a tool kit in your backpack. A wobbly binding when you’re many kilometers away from the starting point can make your day much less enjoyable!
The Right Clothing for Splitboarding: Layering
For this high intensity sport, layering, top and bottom, is your best option. A quick-dry base-layer combined with a mid-layer – choose synthetic fibers for better breathability – will keep you dry and comfortable. A breathable, waterproof and windproof outer shell will complete your outfit.
Learning to make the most of layers while in action is a challenge. The more you will go out, the more you’ll learn how your body reacts to the intensity of the sport and you’ll better understand what to wear depending on the weather and the type of adventure you’ll set off on.
Another tip is to always bring a change of clothes in your backpack like gloves, toques, neck-warmers, even a base-layer if you tend to sweat a lot. Bring thin accessories for the climb but warmer ones for the way down. The objective is to stay dry to make the most of your day and have a positive experience.
To learn more about layering, read our article How to Dress for Ski Touring?.
