Proper Equipment
Ski/Snowboard Boots and Skis and Skins
It is important to have the right skis and boots when going backcountry as the snow tends to be deeper, allowing you to sink further into the snow. Skins are easily attached to skis and prevent you from sliding backward down the mountain when hiking. If you are snowboarding, you definitely need a split board which separates into skis.
Bindings
There are special bindings when going backcountry skiing. You need Alpine Touring (AT) bindings which allow for you to pick up your heel and to walk/slide your skis forward.
Radio
Having a radio while backcountry skiing is a must. It allows for communication with the rest of your group and can save a life in the case of an emergency.
Beacon
Beacons are especially important as they allow for your group to find you in the case of an avalanche. Beacons work by transmitting a radio frequency that can be detected by other beacons and narrow down the search radius to two meters.
Shovel
Having a shovel allows for you to quickly dig out a burried group member in the case of an avalanche or if someone were to fall in a tree well. It also is useful when conducting a snow stability test.
Probe
The probe is what you use to prod around in the snow when searching for members of the group burried by snow. It does not take up much space and allows for you to effortlessly poke around the snow in search of a burried group member.
