Splitboarding Gear List 101: 21 Items to Get You Started (2024)

Splitboarding Gear List 101: 21 Items to Get You Started (1)Splitboarding for beginners. Film by Bergfex.

We hear it, too. Unbounded nature is knocking at the door and it’s time to give splitboarding and the backcountry a shot. Whether you’re a seasoned resort shredder, professional athlete, or have dabbled in snowboarding for a few years, the rules of the wilderness are the same for everyone: Avalanche risks are inherent.

Before you head to the top of Berthoud or Teton Pass have all of your safety gear, a completed avalanche safety course, knowledge of the snow conditions, and an understanding of how to use the gear, so that you and your crew stay safe.

Also,Know Before You Go: Watch the video, digest, learn, play safe!

The local avalanche center is one excellent resource with up-to-date information, and you can check it each night and a second time in the morning before you head out.

Below is our 21-item launch pad of the basic splitboarding gear (pre-mountaineering phase) to help you begin to build your backcountry kit.

1. Splitboard

Fifteen years ago, Voile Founder Mark Wariakois teamed up with Brett Kobernik—who’d handmade the earliest-recorded and unrefined version of a cut-up snowboard for backcountry use—to develop the DIY Voile Split Kit. The kit allows you to saw your old board in half.

Now, innovative splitboard designs (read: a solid snowboard that is engineered to separate in half, so that the rider can ascend and traverse terrain via two pieces) continue to trickle into the market each season including more women’s specific models from Burton, Furberg, Gnu, Jones, Never Summer, Pallas, Nitro, K2 and OZ among other brands.

Splitboarding Gear List 101: 21 Items to Get You Started (2)

Regarding splitboard selection, consider the same characteristics and preferences you would with your solid board: twin versus directional shape, stiffness scale, and profile options—including early rise, hybrid, full camber and flat—are all on the menu.

Most splits fall within the $800-$900 range.

2. Clips or Hooks

Splitboard clips or hooks are a piece of hardware that (you guessed it) clip or slide together to keep the splitboard halves sandwiched while riding. Unless you cut your own board, your splitboard will most likely come with a Voile or Karakoram connector already attached.

$36-$50

Splitboarding Gear List 101: 21 Items to Get You Started (3)3.Pucks

Pucks are four discs with a Pacman silhouette, which are screwed into the board’s binding mounting holes. They’re set at the degree of the rider’s binding stance, so that she or he can quickly switch to ride mode—pretty cool.

When boarders switch from tour to ride mode, the splitboard bindings slide out of the touring brackets, the board’s halves are rejoined, and the bindings slide onto the pucks. The rider now, facing sideways, can take a snowboarding stance.

If you buy splitboard bindings, you’ll need to purchase pucks separately, with options currently made by Voile and Spark R&D. A canted design allows the knees to be directed inward, which can help support some riders’ body alignment.

Splitboarding Gear List 101: 21 Items to Get You Started (4)

Or—if you need to use a set of standard snowboard bindings, you can buy a full hardware setup that allows a traditional pair of bindings to be used on a splitboard.

Pucks $55-$75 // Voile Splitboard Hardware for Standard Bindings $160

4. Splitboard Bindings

In general, compared to regular snowboard bindings, the queen focus of splitboard bindings is uber-lightweight design. The largest visible difference is with the baseplate, which is thinner and may even have segments cut out.

Phantom sells reconditioned binding setups—which is sweet.

Regardless of the binding setup thatyou choose, consider carryingspare parts for your setup. For instance, Spark R&D sells aBackcountry Kitwith extra emergency hardware.

Overall, there’s a big price range, which mostly reflects the materials: $270-$850.

Splitboarding Gear List 101: 21 Items to Get You Started (5)Byron Bagwell demonstrates fitting skins to a splitboard inSplitboarding 101: Pucks, bindings, skins.Film by Dylan Hart.

5.Skins

First off, splitboard skins are wider than those designed for skis—make sure you get the kind made for boards. For most skins, you’ll select one that’s within the range of your board length (example: 153cm to 169cm) and choose between a synthetic (nylon) or mohair mix. The skins are kept in place via glue on the bottom and tail clips. Skins need to be taken care of properly so that the glue isn’t damaged or doesn’t dry out.

When you get your skins, you’ll trim them to match the width of your board. Typically the package includes a cutter, like this G3 Skin Trim Tool ($6). Have fun fitting your skins! Just don’t mess up.

About $150.

Splitboarding 101: Pucks, bindings, skins with Byron Bagwell. Film by Dylan Hart.

6.Boots

Many backcountry riders wear their regular snowboard boot for splitboarding, too. Overall, your choice backcountry boot should match your preference on the stiffness-to-softness scale, just as that component would be considered for resort snowboard boots or even hiking and running footwear.

Today, only a handful of brands are innovating backcountry specific snowboard boots. Features such as a waterproof-stretch Cordura gaiter, which protects the laces and helps to prevent any freezing action (on the ThirtyTwo Jones MTB Snowboard Boot, for men) and a semi-crampon Vibram sole (Fitwell Backcountry boot andK2 Aspect--each also men'sversions) can be extremely helpful in the backcountry, especially during icy, cold conditions and on longer or higher elevation tours. Consider your long-term goals and the type of backcountry objectives you want to pursue: the investment of a backcountry-centric or mountaineering-focusedpair may be worth the investment.

Note: Another option is plastic-shelled alpine-touring ski boots, which could be a good choiceif you intend to get into splitboard mountaineering. Though, they arenot a requisite and not all mountaineering splitboarders wear hard shells on their feet.

A few comparisons include that the profile is narrower than on a regular, soft snowboard boot. Thewaterproof shell doesn't soak up moisture on long tours and protects the feet when kicking into a firm slope, which is made easier by the harder material.However, with the development of more technical snowboard boots that are mountaineering and backcountry focused, it seems that a snowboard boot could meet those needs, too. Again, it all comes down to personal preference and the type of terrain you intend to ride.

*If you choose plastic boots, you'll need to get plate bindings instead of strap bindings, like theSpark R&D Dyno DH.

7. Poles

Splitboard poles are clutch; make sure they’re collapsible. The more compact the poles, the better, so that you can more seamlessly strap the poles to the outside of your pack or fit them inside your pack.

8. Avalanche Safety

An avalanche-safety kit is mandatory in the backcountry. The trio includes a beacon a.k.a. transceiver, shovel, and probe. When you take you’re AIARE Level I course (before you go into the backcountry) you’ll be able to practice how to effectively and efficiently use your avy equipment.

An Avy I class also dives into how to navigate and read the terrain and snow, so that you can make informed, safer decisions in the backcountry—and hopefully never need to use your probe or beacon.

Splitboarding Gear List 101: 21 Items to Get You Started (6)Splitboarding for beginners. Film by Bergfex.

9. First Aid

Carry a first aid kit—and know how to use it. A Wilderness First Responder course is a good place to start. Include an emergency blanket or extra parka.

10. Headlamp

Your group realizes they need to ski option B—a longer return route—home. Or decides to do a sunset ascent. Or, a tail clip breaks on your skins and you don’t have an extra strap: a million ‘what-ifs’ could happen. Have a headlamp just in case. Pack extra batteries.

11. Map

Have a laminated map and compass on hand. Know how to use it. You could download the GPS on your phone—but there’s also a chance the battery could die or a software update interrupts use or the phone breaks. Carry an extra energy source for a recharge, just in case.

Helpful andintuitive tips for new splitboarders. Film by Bergfex.

12. Emergency Shelter

Carry a nylon tarp. Knowing how to build a snow cave can also come in handy. This can also aid in arescue scenario.

13. Layers

If there is an injury or an avalanche, you’ll need to stay warm while you’re stationary for, possibly, a long time. Plus, snack break at the top of the track could get chilly. Pack extra layers including a puffy and extra gloves or mittens in case your current pair get wet. Hand warmers are a nice bonus.

14. Extra Lens

It’s never a bad idea to have an extra lens or goggle.

Splitboarding Gear List 101: 21 Items to Get You Started (7)

15. Fire Starter

Carry a fire starter and a lighter, igniter or stormproof matches.

16. Multi-tool

If your bindings or hardware get loose you’ll be glad you have a multi-tool to tighten the components back up! The second helpfulapplication of a multi-tool is that you can use it to knock any ice off of your bindings when you transition from split to ride mode.

Spark Tool $10

Splitboarding Gear List 101: 21 Items to Get You Started (8)Byron Bagwell demonstrates how to set upsplitboard bindingsin Splitboarding 101: Pucks, bindings, skins. Film by Dylan Hart.

17. Ski Strap

If you have skin failure, you can use the extra strap to harness the skin to the board.

Pack 2-3 extra.

18. Backcountry Snowboard Pack

A pack with legitimate backcountry features means you’ll be able to reach your gear that much easier and faster. Choose a pack with straps for carrying a snowboard. Other elements on the checklist include a dedicated tool pocket—for the shovel, probe and skins—a fleece-lined goggle pocket, storable helmet carry, insulated hydration sleeve, and a hip belt.

Consider getting a pack with an airbag, too, and know how to use it. Practice grabbing and—if possible—pulling the handle, before you head into the backcountry, so that your muscle memory knows where to snag.

Splitboarding Gear List 101: 21 Items to Get You Started (9)

19. Field Notes

Carry a small notebook and pen with the day’s avalanche conditions, weather, and route details written down. Take notes regarding the terrain, snowpack and your timing, throughout the day.

20. Two-way Radio

Communication is key. Chances are you’ll lose cell reception or your phone will die right when you need it most—don’t depend on one in the backcountry.

21.Food and Water

Pack enough calories and hydration for the duration of your trip. Then pack extra snacks to share! Everyone likes snacks.

Splitboarding Gear List 101: 21 Items to Get You Started (10)

Check out what Professional Snowboarder Forrest Shearer Carries in His Backcountry Pack.

Splitboarding Gear List 101: 21 Items to Get You Started (2024)

FAQs

What do you need to start Splitboarding? ›

Splitboarding Essentials: What To Bring Splitboarding
  1. Board, boots, poles, bindings, and skins. The most obvious splitboarding essential is your board, of course. ...
  2. Avalanche gear. ...
  3. Outerwear.
25 Sept 2018

What should I pack for Splitboarding? ›

Everyone is different, but for a day tour, I like to carry: power bars, a thermos of tea, dried fruits, shovel and probe, a small first aid kit, emergency bivy sack, cell phone, power bank, gear repair kit, extra layers, extra gloves, map, sunscreen, splitboard crampons, and cap.

Do you need special boots for Splitboarding? ›

You can use your normal snowboard boots for splitboarding. A stiffer freeride style snowboard boot is recommended for better control and grip on icier slopes. The best option is a splitboard-specific snowboard boot.

How do you set up a splitboard? ›

Out. Thanks you're gonna use the the tape measure. And you're gonna try and work out which set of

Can I ride my splitboard in resort? ›

Can I use my splitboard for riding lifts at the resort? You can ride in resort on your splitboard. You might find it heavier than a traditional snowboard and with potentially less technical features but it wouldn't be a problem to hop on the odd lift with it.

Can you ski downhill with a splitboard? ›

This means a lot less effort and way easier than sinking into deeper light snow. With 'skis' on your feet you can quickly navigate up and down those small undulations that you always encounter while on a tour, sliding downhill on splitboard 'skis' is a skill but clearly quicker and easier than walking down.

Do you need poles for Splitboarding? ›

Splitboard poles are an important piece of gear for the backcountry. As snowboarders, we don't use poles on resorts, but we still need them while touring. They help while climbing, and are great if you fall in deep snow and need a boost to stand up.

How do you carry a splitboard backpack? ›

Easy you're going to go skin to skin or just baste a base for that matter. So you're going ankle

Can you use regular boots for splitboarding? ›

YOU DON'T NEED SPLITBOARD SPECIFIC BOOTS

Regardless of age and quality, you can use your resort boots for splitboarding. Splitboard specific boots, although they have a bunch of features that are very valuable in the backcountry, they don't come cheap.

Can you splitboard with regular boots? ›

You can basically splitboard in any boot; any good, stiff boot like the Burton Ion boot will also work. It's up to you, depending on how often you expect to be splitboarding versus riding resort and the level of performance you're looking for when touring.

Should a splitboard be longer? ›

A longer splitboard supports your body weight and that of your gear better than a shorter one for excellent flotation in soft snow. During ascents, the extra length provides better glide, thus better efficiency, when skinning.

What are pucks for Splitboarding? ›

Splitboard Pucks (Discs)

Splitboard pucks attach to your bindings and the two parts of your board and allow you to drop in when you're ready to board (vs. tour). There are a few types of pucks to choose from—here are the most popular options.

Do Splitboards come with pucks? ›

What Comes With My Splitboard Bindings? Exact components vary so be sure you know what is included with the specific model you are buying but the most common parts included are the interface, touring brackets, pins and pucks.

How do you set up Splitboard pucks? ›

So I like to initiate the a20 pointing towards the inside. And then I put these slots imagining they

Can you do jumps on a splitboard? ›

Totally possible to jump with a splitboard but you better have a nice kicker or drop (because it won't have nearly the same pop as a solid and will feel much dead-er).

Are split boards worth it? ›

As snowboarders, splitboarding is the quickest and most efficient way we can travel in the backcountry compared to snowshoes splitboard will get you to the top quicker and leave you with more energy for the ride down.

Can you use a splitboard as a regular snowboard? ›

Dividing a snowboard in two allows in practice to have something underfoot similar to a pair of skis and the advantage is to be able to use them to climb the slopes, a bit like in ski mountaineering. Once you reach the top the board can be assembled and you can go down using it like a normal snowboard.

Can snowboarders keep up with skiers? ›

As long as there's no “closed” sign permitting you from riding, snowboarders can ride anywhere skiers can.

Can you cross country ski with a split board? ›

Technically one can, but it's not going to work very well. Splitboards are usually wider than ski tracks when skinning, and are much wider than normal cross country skis. If you're hoping to use existing cross country tracks, you're going to struggle a great deal.

Who invented splitboarding? ›

The original splitboard was created in the early '90s by Brett Kobernik and the founder of Voile. But that was in 1994, and now, more than two decades later, the world of snowboarding is finally getting a new piece of gear — the Convert bindings from Ross Snow Tech.

How do you layer a ski? ›

The best way to layer for skiing is to do it in three key sections: Base Layers – should wick away moisture. Mid Layers – should trap body heat. Outer Layers – should keep away the wind, rain & snow.

Can I use trekking poles for splitboarding? ›

G3 Pivot Trek Poles

G3's Pivot Trek Poles are rad for splitboarding, they have a clean simple design are durable and pack down super small. Basically everything you need in a set of backcountry snowboard poles. The grips are on these poles is incredibly comfortable, think wetsuit material foam.

What size of splitboard should I get? ›

Choosing a splitboard size

For a majority of riders and terrain, your ideal size splitboard is the same as your freeride/powder board. If you primarily ride a freestyle board in bounds then you'll want to size up 5 cm for best performance in pow.

How do you ride a splitboard? ›

It's important that your skin is in the middle of the ski. With equal amounts of edge showing on

How do you carry water while snowboarding? ›

Carry Water While on the Mountain

Carry water with you while snowboarding, too. Tuck a water bottle in the pocket of your snowboarding pants. You can also carry a hydration pack with a tube that you can easily pop in your mouth when you need a drink.

What do I need in my snowboard backpack? ›

WHAT TO BRING ON THE SLOPES
  • RESORT MAP. It's important to know the mountain, its boundaries and trail difficulty. ...
  • MONEY & IDENTIFICATION. These are very important items to bring, whether it's for buying a snack or in case of an emergency. ...
  • SUNSCREEN. ...
  • SUNGLASSES. ...
  • EXTRA GOGGLE LENS. ...
  • EXTRA FLEECE LAYER. ...
  • EXTRA SOCKS. ...
  • GLOVE LINERS.

How big should my ski backpack be? ›

Any volume from 10-20 litres is ideal for lift-served backcountry, heli-riding, or days. 20-35 litres is a good size for longer day tours with more variable weather conditions. 30-55 litres should be considered if you're touring huts or doing overnight trips.

Why are splitboard bindings so expensive? ›

Most of the costs comes from labor and materials. In short, creating the parts is probably where most of the cost comes from.

What is the point of a splitboard? ›

Splitboard: A splitboard is a snowboard that has been split in half down the middle (lengthwise) so that each half can be used independently like a ski to tour uphill. A factory splitboard will have metal edges on all sides to improve edge hold while touring and integrated climbing skin attachments.

How do you use crampons in splitboard? ›

First make sure you use them at the right time depending on the slopes. And snow conditions. It can

Can you walk in snowboard boots? ›

They're A Lot Better Than Ski Boots. It's an age-old question that every snowboarder knows the answer to. Are snowboard boots comfortable to walk in? I would say yes.

What shoes should I wear to snowboard? ›

As we've seen, real snowboard boots remain the best option for snowboarding. Their stiff construction specially designed for ankle support and binding fit provide the required control, comfort, and safety for riding.

Do you really need snowboard boots? ›

Arguably the most important part of your snowboard gear, snowboard boots can make or break your day on the mountain. Snowboard boots must fit comfortably, correctly, and work well with your bindings.

How much do Splitboards weigh? ›

This Product
This Product Jones Solution SplitboardWeston Backcountry Backwoods Splitboard
Weight7.38 lbs7.33 lbs
Tested Length158157
FlexStiffMedium - stiff
Weight in grams3346 g3325 g
19 more rows

What size is Weston backwoods? ›

Weston Snowboard Size Chart 2022
BoardSize (cm)Max Boot Size (Mondo)
Backwoods Split / Backwoods Carbon Split / Backwoods Solid15227
15728
157W30.5
16029.5
26 more rows

How do you determine the right size snowboard? ›

Since most snowboarders ride a board that is 85% to 92% of their own body height, plugging a couple numbers into a simple formula can tell you the board length that might fit you best. The formula is as follows: Your Height (in inches) X 2.54 X 0.88 = Your Recommended Board Length.

Do spark bindings work with Voile pucks? ›

All Spark R&D bindings are compatible with Spark Pucks, Spark Canted Pucks, Voile Pucks (Regular or Canted) and Burton Channel Pucks, as well as Spark Solid Board Pucks and Spark Solid Board Canted Pucks mounting plates.

How do Splitboards stay together? ›

Release nose and tail clips and other latches: Most splitboards have clips at the tip and tail and latches at the middle that keep the splitboard connected and stiff. To split your board, undo all clips and latches and pull the board apart with your hands by sliding one ski forward and one ski backward.

What are spark pucks made of? ›

Aluminum Disks: Oversize aluminum center disk overlaps binding channels for maximum strength and rigidity. Adjustability: +/- 1/4 inch (6.5mm) of toe/heel adjustment in . 5 inch (1.3mm) increments.

How do you mount Voile pucks? ›

That you have parallel slot discs on the toe side of record. And the inline slot discs on the

What are snow ski skins? ›

Ski skins are a strip of fabric that's cut to match the length and width of a ski. One side features a special glue that sticks to the base of the ski while the skin side features short hairs that are angled. When pressure is put on the ski, the hairs enable it to “grip” the snow to keep it from sliding backward.

Do Burton hitchhiker bindings come with pucks? ›

These bindings do not come with pucks to mount to your board, that's a separate purchase. The Burton Hitchhiker Binding is compatible with Voile Splitboard Pucks ($55.00), the hard plastic ones that I recommend or Spark R&D has their own machined aluminum pucks available for sale.

How do you set up a canted puck? ›

Set the mini tool into the binding channel. Slide the right toeside puck into the channel. Snap down the ramp or slide the pin into your bindings to secure the pucks. Flip the binding over and set on your board where you wish to a ach it.

How do I use spark arc bindings? ›

Slide the binding out and then on to the pucks. And then pop the bails down with a click and you're

How do you use splitboard bindings? ›

Press the binding all the way forward. And then press the toe ramp back down to lock the binding.

What are Splitboards good for? ›

A splitboard is essentially a normal snowboard which splits into two halves. These halves become skis for travelling uphill, or touring. To enable the rider to walk uphill, adhesive-backed 'skins' are attached to the base of the skis to provide traction on the snow.

Can you use normal bindings on a splitboard? ›

Yes, you can use your normal boots in a splitboard binding. Snowboarders who primarily splitboard usually have a vibram or high traction sole for climbing or hiking though, when you're not in snowboard mode. Splitboarding is a damn good time—and a new way to experience the mountain.

Do splitboard bindings come with pucks? ›

What Comes With My Splitboard Bindings? Exact components vary so be sure you know what is included with the specific model you are buying but the most common parts included are the interface, touring brackets, pins and pucks.

What size of splitboard should I get? ›

Choosing a splitboard size

For a majority of riders and terrain, your ideal size splitboard is the same as your freeride/powder board. If you primarily ride a freestyle board in bounds then you'll want to size up 5 cm for best performance in pow.

Can you snowboard on a splitboard? ›

If you're a snowboarder and eager to explore backcountry terrain or climb up the slopes at a resort, being on a splitboard is the most practical and efficient way to travel. But, if you've never used a splitboard before, all the moveable parts and various little clips may seem complex and intimidating.

Are split boards worth it? ›

Yes, a splitboard with climbing skins and the rest of the equipment is a bit more expensive than your regular board, but it's an investment worth making if you're serious about the backcountry.

Can snowboarders keep up with skiers? ›

As long as there's no “closed” sign permitting you from riding, snowboarders can ride anywhere skiers can.

Do you need poles for Splitboarding? ›

Splitboard poles are an important piece of gear for the backcountry. As snowboarders, we don't use poles on resorts, but we still need them while touring. They help while climbing, and are great if you fall in deep snow and need a boost to stand up.

Why are splitboard bindings so expensive? ›

Most of the costs comes from labor and materials. In short, creating the parts is probably where most of the cost comes from.

How do you transition a splitboard? ›

I'm gonna extend them good tip is to put your poles in upside down there and then if you need an

How do you use crampons in splitboard? ›

First make sure you use them at the right time depending on the slopes. And snow conditions. It can

How do you set up Splitboard pucks? ›

So I like to initiate the a20 pointing towards the inside. And then I put these slots imagining they

How do you mount a splitboard puck? ›

Open up the toe. Set it on its toe edge. And slide that binding. Right over the pucks. It should go

How much do Splitboards weigh? ›

This Product
This Product Jones Solution SplitboardWeston Backcountry Backwoods Splitboard
Weight7.38 lbs7.33 lbs
Tested Length158157
FlexStiffMedium - stiff
Weight in grams3346 g3325 g
19 more rows

Do Jones Splitboards come with skins? ›

No trimming required, ready to use out of the box.

Jones Pre-Cut Skins are sized to fit all our adult splitboard models and are designed for ultimate performance, durability and functionality. They come ready-to-tour right out of the bag with a Quick Tension Tail Clip that adjusts in seconds, no tools needed.

What size is Weston backwoods? ›

Weston Snowboard Size Chart 2022
BoardSize (cm)Max Boot Size (Mondo)
Backwoods Split / Backwoods Carbon Split / Backwoods Solid15227
15728
157W30.5
16029.5
26 more rows

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