Splitboard & Backcountry Gear Buying Guide
Splitboard & Backcountry Gear Buying Guide
Why Go Splitboarding?
Splitboarding opens up a new world of snowboarding, letting you leave the lifts behind and access untouched lines, hidden bowls, and backcountry powder. A splitboard lets you hike uphill using climbing skins, then transition your board to ride down, giving you the freedom to earn your turns and explore beyond resort boundaries.
What is a Splitboard?
A splitboard is a snowboard that splits into two skis for uphill travel, then reconnects to form a snowboard for riding down. Using skins and bindings with touring modes, you can climb efficiently before locking everything back in place for your descent.
Benefits of splitboarding: access untracked terrain and fresh powder, no need for snowshoes or heavy hiking, more efficient and enjoyable than boot-packing, and the freedom of adventure riding in the backcountry.
Essential Splitboard Gear Checklist
Splitboard
Choose a board that suits your terrain and riding style: directional shapes for stability and float in powder, tapered and rocker profiles for effortless float, and volume-shifted options for manoeuvrability in tight terrain. Brands we recommend: Jones, Weston, Korua, Burton.
Splitboard Bindings
Splitboard-specific bindings are lighter and built to transition between ride and tour modes. Spark R&D: lightweight, durable, fast transitions. Karakoram: premium feel, active joining for a solid ride. Union: durable with a familiar snowboard binding feel.
Climbing Skins
Attach to the base of your split skis to provide grip while skinning uphill. Choose skins that match your board's width and length, are easy to trim and attach, and offer a good glide and grip balance. Examples: Jones Nomad Skins, Black Diamond, G3.
Boots
While standard snowboard boots can work, splitboard-specific boots provide better articulation for skinning, Vibram soles for hiking, and stiffer or softer options to match your riding style. Examples: K2 Aspect, ThirtyTwo Jones MTB, Fitwell Backcountry.
Avalanche Safety Gear
Backcountry travel requires avalanche safety gear for every person in the group: an avalanche beacon (transceiver), a shovel, and a probe. Get educated, take an avalanche safety course before venturing into the backcountry.
Backpack
A backcountry pack with avalanche gear storage, space for layers, food and water, and a ski/snowboard carry system. Look for packs in the 20–35L range for day missions.
Splitboard Sizing Guide
Splitboards generally follow standard snowboard sizing:
- Ride your regular board length for stability and float.
- For deep powder or big mountain lines, size up 2–4cm.
- For tighter terrain or tree riding, consider your regular length or volume-shifted options.
Transitioning: Touring to Riding
Splitboarding involves transitioning between Tour Mode (skis separated, skins on, bindings in walk mode) and Ride Mode (skis locked together, bindings attached in snowboard mode, skins removed). Practice transitions at home or in-bounds before heading into the backcountry to increase your confidence and efficiency.
Why Width Matters in Splitboarding
Wider boards increase surface area, aiding float in deep powder while allowing for lower angle stances without toe drag. However, wider boards require more energy on long skin tracks, so choose width based on your boot size and the terrain you ride most.
Backcountry Safety and Responsibility
Backcountry riding comes with risks. Always check the avalanche forecast, carry your beacon, shovel and probe, ride with a partner and communicate your plan, and have the skills to assess snowpack and terrain safely. We highly recommend taking an avalanche safety course before heading into the backcountry.
Why Buy Your Splitboard Gear from Twelve Board Store?
- Premium range of splitboards and backcountry gear curated for Australian and Japan conditions
- Staff who splitboard and can guide your setup decisions
- Fast shipping so you're ready for your next mission
- Support for tuning, setup, and skin trimming in-store
We live for storm chasing and backcountry missions. Let us help you dial in your splitboard kit for your next adventure.
Shop: Splitboards · Splitboard Bindings · Skins · Backcountry Safety · Backcountry Packs
Related guides: Splitboarding Buying Guide · Snowboard Bindings Guide
