Backcountry Skiing

Key features of backcountry snow shovels:

• Material: Because of its low weight and high strength, aluminum predominates. Plastic shovels aren't suited to avalanche rescue.
• Comfort: Low weight and a comfortable, ergonomic grip will make a shovel easier to use.
• Length: Longer, extended shafts may give you better leverage to scoop snow faster while shorter shafts cut down on weight.

Types of snow shovels:

• Fully flat blades are best for snow study, such as creating smooth snow-pit walls.
• Scooped blades are less likely to spill snow off the sides during shoveling.
• Serrated blade edges can be used to bust up ice.
• Blades with holes in them can be used (with a length of accessory cord) to build snow anchors; holes also make a shovel slightly lighter to carry.

T-grip vs. D-grip handles:

• T-grip: Grasped between the fingers, this is a lightweight design that works well; can be awkward when wearing mittens.
• D-grip: Slightly bulkier and heavier than a T-grip, it is relatively easy to use while wearing mittens.

What is an avalanche transceiver?

• If recreate in snow in the backcountry, a transceiver is an essential safety device, along with a probe and shovel.
• Transceivers help you locate a person buried in an avalanche or others find you if you’re buried.

What features should I look for?

• Analog or digital: Most modern transceivers are digital, though some are both digital and analog.
• Multiple burials: Enables searchers to pick up multiple buried victims. Most brands offer multiple burial tracking, even in basic models.
• Marking function: Allows the searcher to mark or "flag" the location of each buried person.
• Display screen: Shows direction and distance to a buried person. Premium models may have larger, high-contrast screens.
• Range: Brands will list in meters the circular range (typically 40 to 70) in which one transceiver can sense others’ signals.