Backcountry Ski Set-Up
Add to Del.icio.usGear Guru - From one plank inbounds to two in the backcountry
by Backcountry BobQ: Hey Bob,
I recently transitioned from snowboarding to skiing, and I'm looking for a good backcountry setup. I'm 5'10" and around 150lb. In your opinion, what would be better for skinning and skiing, the Rossignol B3 or the Fisher Prohete? I own a pair of Fisher Rangi's (love ‘em), and I have the option to throw some touring bindings on the two aforementioned skis.
Thanks,
Jonathan
A: Hello Jonathan,
My ski recommendation depends on what conditions you plan on riding. These skis are tools tailored for different uses. The Prohete is a super-fat ski for deep powder days, while the B3 is a more versatile ski with slimmer dimensions. The B3 is an all-mountain ski that handles well in variable snow conditions. If you plan on skiing untracked all the time, go with the Prohete. For anything else the B3 will be your go-anywhere, do-anything ski.
To turn a big ski you’ll need a burly binding. I recommend mounting the Fritschi Diamir Freeride. Fritschi has their design dialed and this is an extremely durable binding that lets you muscle around a big ski. Regardless of which ski you choose, the Freeride is my binding of choice.
For an AT boot, choose a boot that is lightweight but can still turn a fat ski. I would go with the Garmont Mega Ride G-fit or the Crispi Diablo Freeride. The four-buckle designs provide the power you’ll need to drive those big skis, and the thermo-formable liners give a custom fit. These boots will handle anything you throw at them.
Last, but definitely not least, when venturing into the backcountry, be sure you have the proper avalanche equipment: beacon, shovel, probe, knowledgeable partner, and a sound knowledge of avalanche safety and rescue. Know before you go!