Climbing skins attach to the board with adhesive glue, tip clips, and sometimes tail clips. With so many components on a complete splitboard setup, it's important to have backup spare parts in case you lose something and need to perform emergency rig surgery.Make sure everything fits into your pack. You can work your way through our course progression with the goal of taking our Ski & Splitboard Mountaineering course, for advanced participants. Remember, every expert splitboarder was once a beginner. Ready to explore the vast backcountry in search of the perfect line? Tack a T-nut … The interface is what connects the bindings to the splitboard for both touring and riding. With a sealed inside edge, factory inserts and pre-installed clips, factory splits are ready to handle anything you can throw at them, and you don't have to hack apart your favorite board. The torsional flex will be very different than a regular snowboard and you may need to hammer on your edges for them to hold. Make sure you understand how the tip clips work and the collapsible poles collapse. Split hooks are designed to help hold the two halves of the splitboard together and provide increased torsional stiffness. Beards and splitboards highly encouraged, but never required. We recommend starting with something familiar though. If you don’t want to opt for split specific bindings, the Voilé Sliders allow you to use your traditional bindings while splitboarding. Critical pieces of kit that you’ll only truly understand the importance of once you’ve accidentally left them in the car. While it may be tempting to throw caution to the wind and just get after it, it's important to take the time to familiarize yourself with the basics of your gear and build upon a foundation of safety. Events Search and Views Navigation. Splitboard Poles. Turns all year? Similar to regular snowboards, splitboards can be broken down by their intended use and the terrain that they're best in. The ’How To Splitboard’ videos series is a master class in splitboard tips and tricks taught by the legendary UIAGM Backcountry Snowboard Guide Neil McNab. A main aspect of the trip will be learning about how to read the terrain and conditions and avalanche safety and rescue. Neil shares a wealth of knowledge in these videos. Most skins are trim to fit, meaning that you have to cut both edges of the skin to match the sidecut of the snowboard. It's an excellent choice for a one board quiver for those who enjoy uphill efficiency but don't want to sacrifice downhill performance. Don't blast tunes on the skin track (if music helps you find your rhythm consider one earbud in and one out to stay aware of your surroundings). Grab an open desk and learn all about the fast-growing sport of splitboarding. Don't be afraid to dig in on your edges. Splitboard Education Collective Founder Kelly Robbins teaches splitboard guides, instructors, and clients in the field. Note: Most climbing bars come with two height options.Climbing skins: Climbing skins (or just "skins") are strips of material made from a carpet-like plush that are used during uphill splitboarding to allow the individual split skis to glide forward while preventing them from slipping backward. Increasing lift ticket prices and lighter/cheaper splitboarding gear has caused uphill inbounds traffic to surge in recent years, and in response to this uptick, resorts have mostly embraced the trend, implementing safety policies that include charging for uphill access, restricted uphill travel days/times, or designated uphill routes. We'll give you the basics of winter backcountry travel and safety. This active joining technology creates a feeling similar to a solid snowboard. While short and steep may be quicker, you will definitely expend more energy that could be used for the ride down. Being my first day on splitboards also offered a unique challenge. Please give our customer care team a call at 866-386-1590, Customer Care Hours. This is my Prior BC Split 165. This interface also allows you to lock the heel of the binding, which allows for side-stepping gnarly terrain and skating out of flat areas. The crampons usually attach to the touring pivot point and float to provide a smooth glide followed by supreme traction. Consider that you will be taking this board on different terrain than you would take your regular snowboard. We are a ski, snowboard, wake, skate, bike, surf, camp and clothing online retailer with physical stores in Seattle, Portland, Denver, Salt Lake City, and Whistler. Watch all seven to seriously step up your splitboard IQ … You'll now have a board with no bindings ready to be split into two halves Instant traction in slick situations is never something you want to take for granted. There are many nuances to splitboarding that can only be learned through experience, but we've put together a few techniques that all splitboarders should follow. Boards based off of freestyle classics or DIY splits are a great option here. While some riders choose to go the DIY route and make their own splitboard out of a solid board they already own, factory-made splitboards have many advantages. The Weston Backwoods is an exceptional model for both the up and the down. Split hooks and tip and tail clips are almost always included with factory splitboards. If you answered yes and you don’t want to give up the freedom of riding a snowboard, welcome to the wonderful world of splitboarding. Most companies offer women's specific splitboards, with narrow waist widths, smaller sizes and softer flexes designed for you. Look for something with some camber under your back foot for maximum power and control and rocker in the nose to stay afloat in deep snow. Each episode covers an important aspect of learning to splitboard including avalanche safety, skinning technique and how to set up your splitboard. There are a couple of different bindings that will work with this system. Tip and tail hook clips are small plastic pieces that connect at the tip and tail. Still have questions? Splitboarding is a great way to escape the crowds, get into nature with your buddies, and access unique terrain, but it can be tough to figure out how to get started. or in Sinaia on Bucegi Mtn., depending on weather conditions. There are two main interface systems: the Voilé puck system and the Karakoram system. This website is for the newbies, the hardcores, and everyone in between, to learn about backcountry snowboarding aka splitboarding. You never know when you’ll need crampons. To learn more about skins for a splitboard, see our article How to Choose, Trim and Attach Splitboard Climbing Skins. Put your skins on; take them off. Karakoram and Voilé offer their own versions of split hooks. There are so many options for backcountry snowboards, from DIY kits to full custom boards. You should carry an avalanche beacon, shovel and probe when travelling in avalanche terrain and know how to use them. The lower 48’s most glaciated peak lets Seattle-area riders like snowboard journalist/splitboard mountaineer Jeff Steele get laps almost year-round. Best for: Rugged, durable construction in a surf inspired shape PRICE: €850 The Surf Shuttle is one of Amplid’s new splitboards for the 2020/21 season. Some splitboard-specific boots are better for the uphill, such as the Thirtytwo TM-2 XLT ($350) or the Vans Hi-Country and Hell-Bound boots ($330), but the best footwear is … Many brands, like Jones Snowboards or Arbor make split versions of their popular inbounds boards. Remember, climbing skins made for skis will not fit splitboards! We will explain the gear and tools you need, how to plan for a trip, and how to recognize avalanche terrain. You will have to drill about 1/16″ – 1/8″ out of the core to allow for a reasonable patch in your base. Paired with special binding systems, this means you can split your board in half and walk uphill, then reassemble your board to descend like a normal snowboard. Drill all of the puck holes out from the topsheet, then follow up with the appropriate size paddle bit on the base to expose the wood core. Keep in mind the snow in the backcountry can be quite variable, so lean towards a more versatile shape until you figure out what might suit you best. Join us for our introductory course that will show you all the basics to get you started. No heavy, awkward, and inefficient snowshoes needed here! Freestyle fun? Riding backcountry terrain is one of the most rewarding things you can do on a snowboard, but there are inherant risks and these should be taken seriously. From freeriders to freestylers, there are many different shapes and camber profiles to accomodate different styles of riding. Learn what you'll need to get started on backcountry snowboarding, or splitboarding. For example, Karakoram, Spark R&D, and Union offer bindings that allow you to lock the heel and skate, and also feature an incredibly simple and easy to use riser system. A factory splitboard will have metal edges on all sides to improve edge hold while touring and integrated climbing skin attachments. Don’t feel like you have to compromise and buy a smaller men’s board. You will learn how to access steeper, more exposed slopes and narrow couloirs using ice axes and crampons. Maintain good posture. These play an important role in creating a supportive and solid feel, comparable to a normal snowboard. To prepare your splitboard for an ascent, split the board and clean the surface with a dry cloth. Searching for untouched winter pow? Start slow and work up to speed. The key benefit of a splitboard for snowboarders is that while it might be a bit less efficient than a high end ski touring set up, it means you get to go snowboarding in the back country more easily and not have to learn how to ski! Allow faster uphill travelers to play through. Skins provide traction that allows riders to climb uphill with split skis on their feet, attaching to the bases of split skis with nose/tail clips and glue. We’ve prepared a number of topics useful to new splitboarders, starting with our FAQ and Splitboard Anatomy which includes a detailed look at the various boards, interfaces, and accessories available in the market today. Learning to splitboard has been high on my to do list for quite sometime now. Arguably the most important part of the splitboard setup, climbing skins provide the traction necessary to tour uphill. Splitboard specific highbacks allow for increased range of motion while going uphill, and low profile designs reduce hang ups when striding. Some routes demand good technique and experience of tricky terrain, but there’s plenty of easier tours around MoaAlm as well. Because splitboard bindings are specifically designed for backcountry use, they are generally lighter and more durable than regular snowboard bindings. Skins are strips of adhesive-backed fabric with tiny hairs pointing towards the tail of your splitboard. Don't be the jerry who makes everyone wait because it's the first time you've ever tried your new splitboard gear. Most splitboarding poles use a three or four section collapsible design, folding down to a manageable size to store in your pack for the shred down. Whether you're just getting started with splitboarding or you're an experienced backcountry rider who just wants to brush up on some basics, you've come to the right place - Burton's Splitboarding 101. Learn to use your Alpine Touring, Splitboard, or Telemark set-up with professional, qualified guides. Tip and Tail Reinforcement. They provide balance (trust us, you'll need it) and let you push with your arms when travelling over flat or rolling terrain. However, more companies are offering pre-cut skins for their splitboard lineup. Touring: Touring is the entire act of backcountry splitboarding, including establishing a route, skinning uphill, and riding back downhill. The Voilé Puck system consists of four pucks that are attached to the inserts. Snowboard boots also tend to be comfier than ski boots, so splitboarding gives you that advantage over skiing. When touring, avoid digging in and placing too much weight over your poles. If you can ski a red and black runs comfortably then you’ll be able to handle any of our beginner tours, especially after some off piste lessons on our free ride days. It's not the lightest on the scale but felt the lightest underfoot, earning it an award for its climbing efficiency, snappy secure performance on hardpack, and maneuverability in powder. Plus, it helps to get away from the lift lines, jeans-wearing skiers, and yellow jacket slow zones that are found on patrolled terrain. I went on a trip with UCPA and Action outdoors to give it a go for the first time. Students will learn how to use backcountry touring and avalanche safety equipment, the basics of avalanche rescue, and navigation through mountain terrain. The Karakoram system is designed to work with only Karakoram bindings. If you read something that was helpful to you in your own adventures, please drop me a comment or email. Put your splitboard bindings on; take them off. Having a hard time fitting everything into your pack? Want to learn to splitboard or ski tour but don't know where to start? Itinerary. Splitboard Skins You first need to remove the bindings from your splitboard. Why You Should Take an Avalanche Safety Course and What to Expect. When engaged (flipped up), climbing bars reduce calf strain by raising the heel of the foot to be more level with the slope. Aircraft grade aluminum and carbon fiber are materials Karakoram and Spark R&D both use in their binding manufacture for durability and weight savings. Splitboarding was born in the backcountry; and many riders seek the solitude and connection with the outdoors that only the backcountry can provide. I always get a splitboard that’s 3-5 centimetres longer than the board I ride at the resort. Manufactured by companies like Voilé, K2, and Spark R&D, skins are a necessity for any splitboard setup. Learn to Splitboard / Ski tour Camp. © 2001-2020 evo - All rights reserved, all wrongs reversed  |, — American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education, Avalanche Beacons / Transceivers - How to Choose, Alpine Touring Ski Bindings - How to Choose, Dynafit (Tech) Bindings - Getting Started, Outerwear & Layers - How to Dress for the Backcountry. If you purchased trim-to-fit skins and need to cut them down to the correct size, make sure to perform this work outside or somewhere else where you won't get dog hair in the glue. Put your skins on at home, before you leave. Events for January 2021 › Learn to Splitboard / Ski tour Camp. This blog is proudly independent. Best Mens Beginner Board. We learned this the hard way.Pack a few extra screws. More and more I want to be alone in the mountains, to just get away and soak up all the energy, fresh air and silence that they offer. Splitboarding is the snowboarder’s key to accessing backcountry terrain. The goal of the course is build confidence in traveling on skis or splitboards, while having fun in a beautiful mountain setting! Amplid Surf Shuttle Splitboard 2020-2021. (Note: When you cut a board in half, you often lose some of the properties that may have drawn you to it in the first place, like stiffness and torsional flex. Find a rhythm. Experienced riders can get 5+ seasons on a pair of skins; beginners who fail to properly maintain their skins are lucky to get one full season on them. See our Climbing Skins Guides for more information: I’m a snowboarder, what do I need poles for? A spiltboard is a snowboard that has been cut in half vertically to make two “skis.” By attaching special bindings and grippy climbing skins for traction, you can use these skis to hike uphill in the backcountry. A splitboard is a snowboard that splits into two parts to create touring skis, these can be used to glide uphill with skins on like a skier can. Brașov - We will go up the mountain and learn how to ride a splitboard, in either the Poiana Brasov resort on Postavaru Mtn. If you're handy, have the right tools, and are motivated to take on the challenge, you can try building your own splitboard with a do-it-yourself kit sold by Voilé or Karakoram. Take this into consideration when contemplating a DIY split!). For ride mode, the bindings slide over the pucks and are locked into place with a pin. Day 1- Full day, 7am-4pm, Classes meet at the AAI Gear Shop in Bellingham, WA. Here are some great resources for avalanche safety education:— American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education— American Avalanche Association— Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center— Avalanche Canada Backcountry travel requires an acceptance of the risks involved (avalanches are not the only danger) and implies a willingness to take responsibility for educating oneself about these dangers and ways to mitigate them. Learn to embrace the uphill as part of the splitboarding experience, and you'll never have a bad day. Get off the skin track for bathroom breaks. At a minimum, we recommend the following gear: The good news? Now for the fun stuff. In tour mode, the toe piece of the binding locks into the touring bracket, and with its sleeved axel, it creates a pivot point necessary for touring. Don't bootpack in the skin track. I have been snowboarding for over 19 years now but I have never tried splitboarding. It consists of four metal plates that join the splitboard together using the bindings’ lever and pin system. Stand up straight with your head and shoulders centered over your body; this will help you avoid fatigue. Take care of your skins. Before you head out into the backcountry, you need to be prepared with the proper knowledge and tools to keep you, your partners, and other backcountry users safe. We recommend that backcountry travelers take an AIARE Level One class or equivalent and practice the skills they learn there regularly with their partners. However, splitboard-specific bindings (like the Burton Hitchhiker) will usually be much lighter in weight and offer direct puck system integration, quick-release mounting systems, and climbing bars.Split hooks: Split hooks are designed to hold the two halves of a splitboard together and provide torsional strength (stiffness across the width of the board).Tip clips: Tip clips are found on the nose and tail of the splitboard and allow the two halves of the board to be "locked" together for downhill mode.Transition: Transitions are the change from walk/tour mode to downhill mode (putting the splitboard halves together, remounting bindings, collapsing poles, and getting packed up to ride) and vice versa. Heading into the backcountry means you’ll have more opportunity for bumping up against trees, rocks and other obstacles while skinning and riding. Sidehilling: The practice of moving across a hill, parallel to the horizon, where one splitboard ski is higher than the other and the edges are used to maintain grip. Much of the learning needed for being a good splitboarder is familiarity with the equipment. Shop the Men's and Women's Splitboarding collection including Splitboards, GORE-TEX outerwear, and splitboarding accessories. Remember, a splitboard is actually two smaller snowboards that are locked together with bindings; it will ride differently. Select low-angle approaches. Splitboard specific bindings designed by Spark R&D, Voilé, and Union's Expedition Splitboard Bindings will work with the puck system. Like any community, splitboarding has some activity-specific lingo, and you don't want to get left out of the conversation. Furthermore, these bindings often tie into their corresponding interfaces with obvious benefits. It’s built for endless repeat journeys into the backcountry. Each episode covers an important aspect of learning to splitboard including avalanche safety, skinning technique and how to set up your splitboard. Ride Agenda Snowboard; Salomon Assassin Snowboard; Jones Snowboards Explorer Splitboard Bootpacking: When the slope gets too steep to skin up, riders must remove their splitboards and hike uphill by kicking footholds into the side of the mountain and this is called bootpacking; these footholds resemble stair steps and allow riders to quickly gain elevation. Taking on the challenge of earning your turns all year long? Climbing bars: Climbing bars are typically integrated into splitboard bindings and are used when ascending steep slopes. We begin with a gear check and board fitting, including dissecting the splitboard to learn how it works. There are a few smaller, boutique splitboard companies. Practice good skin track etiquette in the backcountry. Events In. Directional and stiff are your friends here. Every major splitboard binding manufacturer produces a crampon that is compatible with their bindings. While many snowboarders have little experience skiing, poles are a must for skinning up the mountain. The Voilé pucks are not included when purchasing bindings. Once you have reached your desired peak and spot a good line, attach the skis back together and you’ve got a board to shred down a pristine (and hopefully powder filled) run. You do this by first removing the retaining pin, then sliding the bindings backwards off the binding plates and off the board. Don't push yourself too hard (the first person to throw up during the climb has to buy the first round) and focus on your breathing. If you plan to venture into the backcountry, please review Why You Should Take an Avalanche Safety Course and What to Expect, and find a course near you, to make sure you understand the associated dangers and how to mitigate them. Splitboard: A splitboard is a snowboard that has been split in half down the middle (lengthwise) so that each half can be used independently like a ski to tour uphill. When you head out touring, you'll want the proper base layers and outerwear for the conditions, a helmet and goggles, and the desire to get after it. Allow your skins to dry completely before putting them away and only use the cheat sheets for seasonal storage. In search of gnarly lines? Purchase splitboard specific skins for proper coverage. Now that you know the basics it's time to get out and splitboard. If your skinning technique is completely dialed and your transitions are under three minutes, then these tips might not be for you. Upgrade to something bigger or cut down on the gear you want to take. The Karakoram interface is included with all Karakoram bindings, which is reflected in their pricing. There are heaps of splitboards available now, with manufacturers making splits in shapes and sizes for every type of rider. Setting a skin track is both an art and a science, at all times trying to balance safety with efficiency.Splitboard: A splitboard is a snowboard that has been split in half down the middle (lengthwise) so that each half can be used independently like a ski to tour uphill. If you're getting into splitboarding after resort riding, you should have everything else you need in your gear closet already. Sick of lift lines on pow days? Remember, when it comes to splitboarding, you'll be spending 90% of your time hiking uphill, 5% of your time messing with gear, and 5% of your time riding downhill. Finally, you do not need any extra special training to use a splitboard; if you can ride a snowboard, then you can ride a splitboard! My most recent skiing experience was more than 15 years prior and unclipped heels on wide awkward skis adds a whole new level of challenge for the uninitiated snowboarding. Inbounds splitboarding combines all the satisfaction of earning your turns with the conveniences of resort riding: hike uphill, rip some groomed runs, and then grab a snack and use the restrooms at the base area (COVID-19 depending of course). Freestyle classics or DIY splits are a few extra screws feel like you have to drill 1/16″. Be quicker, you can turn your favorite snowboard into a killer backcountry tool course and what to.! In creating a supportive and solid feel, comparable to a solid snowboard the binding plates off. Bindings slide over the pucks and are used when ascending steep slopes the members of group... Use the cheat sheets for seasonal storage, please drop me a comment or email the down! 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