Gear Up For The Snow

Backcountry Snowkite Gear?

AT (all terrain) skisPrefer using skis to access the goods? Try a pair of AT skis boots and bindings. This lightweight backcountry setup o ers a free heel for skiing up the mountain, then when you reach your location, lock down the heal for kiteskiing. SplitboardA great option for when you ride far away from the road or snowmobile. If the wind dies, convert your snowboard to a pair of free heel skis and cruise through the backcountry with ease. SnowshoesSnowboarders may choose to use snowshoes when setting up their gear in the deep powder then strap them to the pack in case of a long hike out. Foil Kites vs. Inatables?Chances are you already own an inatable and know exactly how it ies. If this is the case, your tube kite will work fantastic on the snow. Foil kites have a few advantages, such as packing much smaller for backcountry missions and inating almost instantly. Your decision comes down to budget and personal preference.

Zeal Optics Z3 GPS

Bern Baker

Custom Kitesnowboard

Protect your head while snowkiting and snowmobiling! Need we say more? $100; bernunlimited.com

Having GPS technology built right into your goggles makes snowkiting more fun than ever. Track your route, speed, and elevation or switch to the jump feature to measure your airtime. $549; zealoptics.com

Core snowkiters may enjoy Decosses 155 cm Kite Asymmetrical board that o ers an extra inch in width to stay aoat in the powder in addition to two separate sidecut radii. One sidecut for freestyle and pop, or switch your bindings to the other sidecut for speed and long-distance tracking. (Custom board graphics are optional) $799; decossecustoms.com

Dakine Heli Pro

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PHOTOS: RICHARD HALLMAN

This medium-size pack is ideal to ride with for carrying all of your essentials including hydration pack, avalanche gear (beacon, shovel, probe), GPS, headlamp, and radios. $85; dakine.com

Dakine Wrangler

When the mercury drops try the Wrangler, a medium-weight glove with superior grip and plenty of dexterity desired while snowkiting. $70; dakine.com

For warm spring sessions or getting set up, break out the thinner and more breathable Vipers. Viper $35; dakine.com

Dakine Viper Gloves

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ShockStrap

HMK Team Boa Focus

Skis

Climbing Harness

Snowmobiles

A hybrid bungee/tie-down with carabineers on both ends for the quickest and easiest way to lock down your kites, skis, or snowboard to your sled. $18; shockles.com

Many riders are using climbing harnesses worn under snow pants in addition to their kite harness. When used together, there is increased support and it also prevents the waist harness from riding too high. Starting from $38; blackdiamondequipment.com Looking for the top of the line waterproof boot made for snowmobiling and snowboard crossover? Look no further. This Boa boot is supportive, comfy and light. $380; hmkusa.com

Its up to you to pick the right ski for you and the day. Fat, twin tip, telemark or all- terrainThey all work. Custom kiteski shapes available. $799; decossecustoms.com

A decent sled will run from $2,500 used and up to 12K new. Although sleds are not a necessity, they can get you in and out of the backcountry faster than ever. Beware of cheap used sleds to prevent breakdowns.

(Left to right) Aaron Sales, Tyler Brown, Jacob Buzianis, and Kody Little En route to the top of the Sierras.

This 16 MP waterproof, shockproof, and freezeproof point-andshoot boasts GPS and an electronic compass. $380; nikonusa.com

Nikon Coolpix AW100

This thin stylin waterproof shell ts snug to your body allowing your kite harness to t tight against you to prevent harness rotation. $500; oakley.com

Oakley Sethmo Jacket

No one likes snow down their pants, and with this low-prole bib, youll stay dry and warm no matter how nasty the fall. $400; oakley.com

Oakley Sethmo Pant

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