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
✅ Unlock 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.

  • 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.

Options:

  • Spark R&D: Lightweight, durable, with 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
✅ Offer 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
✅ 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:
✅ Avalanche beacon (transceiver)
✅ Shovel
✅ 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, water
✅ 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.
✅ 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, remember wider boards require more energy on long skin tracks—choose width based on your boot size and the terrain you ride most.

Splitboard Tech to Look For

✅ Rocker Noses: For float in powder.
✅ Camber Underfoot: For stability on variable terrain.
✅ Lightweight Cores: For efficiency on the ascent.
✅ Reinforced Edges: For durability in icy conditions.
✅ Easy transition hardware: For fast, reliable transitions.

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.
✅ 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.

Ready to Explore Beyond the Resort?

Check out our premium range of splitboards, bindings, skins, and backcountry essentials, and get prepared for your next mission.

[🏔️ Shop Splitboards & Backcountry Gear Now]