Pick A Safe Spot To Transition

Easier said than done on certain routes, but picking the right spot to transition makes everything that comes next so much easier. Plan ahead and look for a flat, sheltered spot. Ideally, pick an area that’s protected from the wind but, most importantly, clear or significant exposure from above. If the snow is deep, take a few steps around the transitioning zone to pack out the snow and give yourself an easier space to work in.

“Take a few steps around the transitioning zone to pack out the snow and give yourself an easier space to work in”

Layering Is Key

The old mantra, “Be bold, start cold” is a wise one to live by when out on the trail. It can be sweaty work ascending in the backcountry. That said, don’t underestimate how rapidly the body cools down as soon as you stop. The rule is simple: When you stop to transition, add a layer; when you start moving again, remove (at least) one.

“Be bold, start cold”

Having a second pair of thinner, dextrous gloves will make life infinitely easier, too. Aligning the skins, adjusting your touring poles or securing your bindings can feel quite cumbersome with a thick pair of mitts, so carry a spare set.

If you ride with a helmet and goggles, it’s worth swapping them for a hat and sunglasses before ascending. No amount of anti-fogging technology can save a pair of goggles strapped to your head when you’re on the ascent. Keep them in the bag until you’re ready to ride again.

Bindings

Splitboard binding technology has come on leaps and bounds in recent years, both in terms of their touring and riding performance. In this video, Neil is using Spark R&D Bindings, which allow for a super easy transition. Use the butt of your pole, or carry a plastic or metal scraper to clear the pucks and baseplate of any excess ice and snow. Then, simply slide them through over the pucks for ride mode, or slot them through the touring plate for walk mode.

“Remember to adjust the forward lean lever during the transition”

Remember to adjust the forward lean lever during the transition. Spark R&D splitboard bindings allow the highbacks to extend further back for a longer stride when touring but need to be fixed in place again for the descent.

Poles

There’s one quick way to check the sizing of your poles: hold them upside down, let the butt of the handle rest on the snow’s surface and place your hand directly underneath the basket. In this position, your arm should sit at a 90° angle. Get a pair of touring poles which have an extended grip handle for when you’re on long, awkward traverses, and ones that collapse down and attaches to your bag during the descents. Neil is using the Jones Talon Poles in this video.