First, you must decide if your goal is touring or turning. For touring, bring waxless or fish scale, skinny, double-cambered skis with the Nordic Norm bindings (NNN) and leather boots. You may also choose teli skis with leather or plastic boots which will offer more control.
If turning is what you are after, then choose a ski designed for deep snow: a wider ski is preferred. Local favorite skis include K2’s Adventure Backside series. A general average width of 105 to 112 underfoot is preferred for mid-winter powder skiing
We will supply you with an Avalanche Transceiver (we use Backcountry Access’ Trackers and Ortovox F-1 Focus) and shovels if we venture into avalanche terrain. You need to have a small backpack (between 25-30L) to carry your extra clothes and water bottle. We supply lunches and snacks on day tours and all meals on yurt trips. Guides carry first aid kits, repair kits, and emergency kits.
The key to backcountry skiing comfort is the wearing layers. You will want to wear less on the ascents than the descents. Start with synthetic, wicking underwear, like polypropylene, as a base layer (mid-weight is the best for backcountry skiing in the Tetons). Next, add a fleece vest or wool sweater on the top, with ski pants (preferably Gore-Tex® or the latest craze, Schoeller®) on the bottom. Finally, bring a storm jacket with a hood. Pit zips are nice in the jacket for ventilation. We recommend carrying an extra insulating layer for the top (a down jacket or warm fleece) for lunch breaks or in case weather rolls in or an injury occurs. Bring a warm hat, a lighter hat, a visor or cap for sun protection, light gloves for hiking, and warm mitts for descents or taking breaks. Goggles, sunglasses, and sunscreen are all necessary items on the gear list.
