When you set off for your first (or tenth) backcountry adventure, having the right heliboarding gear can make all the difference between a nerve-wracking outing and a euphoric float through endless powder. In this ultimate guide, you’ll discover the essentials you need to stay safe, comfortable, and ready to carve unforgettable lines in remote mountain terrain.
Gather essential safety gear
Avalanche preparedness is nonnegotiable in heli-accessed backcountry. You’ll typically need a beacon, shovel, and probe at minimum. Many operators, including Last Frontier Heliskiing, also provide ABS packs (inflatable backpacks) that improve your odds of staying atop an avalanche if it occurs.
- Get familiar: Practice using your beacon, shovel, and probe before heading out. Speed matters in a rescue scenario.
- Perform checks: Confirm your safety gear is functioning properly each day.
- Know your pack: ABS systems inflate rapidly, so learn how to deploy yours quickly if an emergency arises.
Pick your ideal snowboard
Your regular resort board might feel lacking in thigh-deep powder. Heliboarding calls for a setup geared toward floatation, stability, and ease of handling in soft snow.
Size matters
A longer board helps keep you on top of fresh powder, though it can be slightly tougher to maneuver in tight trees. Chin height is a basic starting point, but a few extra centimeters will make a difference in bottomless powder. Bigger is better when you want maximum float.
Focus on shape
If you’re used to riding a traditional camber board, be prepared for a new sensation off-piste. Rocker shapes, or hybrid rocker-camber combos, are ideal because they reduce tip dives and effortlessly skim the surface. Tapered shapes, where the nose is wider than the tail, add a surfy, nimble feel that’s perfect for forested glades and open bowls.
Consider sidecut
On groomed runs, a deep sidecut helps you carve sharply. In fresh powder, you’ll be surfing more than carving, so a wide waist and moderate sidecut work well. You’ll glide easily without feeling like the board wants to dig into a hard turn.
Upgrade your bindings
A stiff, supportive binding keeps your boots in place when you’re charging through deep snow. Small, flexible bindings might feel comfortable for resort laps, but they can leave you with tired legs on extended powder runs.
- Shell out for stiffness: Look for taller highbacks, which help control your board when you’re popping in and out of fluffy pillows.
- Size check: Make sure your bindings fit your boots properly, so you don’t get snow buildup or annoying pinch points.
- Extra support: If you’re riding long, steep lines, a snug binding can help power through variable terrain.
Dress for the elements
Mother Nature can shift moods quickly in remote mountains, so reliable outerwear is essential. Look for shells with proven waterproof technology, such as GORE-TEX or any 20k-rated membrane. Arc’teryx is a popular choice among heli guides, thanks to its balance of durability, lightweight design, and weather protection.
- Layer it up: A base layer wicks moisture away, a mid-layer traps warmth, and a shell keeps out wind and snow. Steer clear of cotton.
- Bring backups: It’s wise to pack extra gloves or an additional mid-layer. If conditions change, you’ll be comfy rather than chilly.
Protect your face and eyes
High elevations and swirling snow can create a perfect storm of windburn, harsh sunlight, and biting cold.
- Goggles galore: Having at least two pairs, or interchangeable lenses, covers you for cloudy whiteouts and bright, bluebird days.
- Face coverage: A Buff or other face protector shields your cheeks from icy gusts and helps block UV rays bouncing off the snow.
Choose comfortable boots
Even if every other piece of gear is on point, ill-fitting boots can sabotage your experience. Make sure your boots are snug (but not painful), and consider custom footbeds for maximum comfort and control.
- Break them in: Wear your boots around the house or on a short resort day first.
- Prioritize warmth: Cold toes are no fun at 9,000 feet. Look for boots with enough insulation to handle sub-zero mornings.
- Double-check fit: You don’t want your heel lifting during a hot drop into a new run.
Enjoy your ultimate ride
Once you’ve secured your heliboarding gear, it’s time to focus on your lines and savor the ride. If you need more insight on off-grid heli-accessed terrain, check out heliboarding for additional tips and tricks.
Remember, you’re there to have the best day of your life, so stay safe, stay comfortable, and feast your eyes on those jaw-dropping peaks from the helicopter window. The right gear ensures you’ll spend more time slashing powder and less time struggling with equipment. With practice, you’ll find that floating sensation in untouched snow is even better than you imagined. Enjoy every glorious second—you’ve earned it.