GEAR

ONE MORE CHANCE: Additional Support from RECCO

Transceivers, probes and shovels aren't going to be replaced anytime soon, but no complementary avalanche equipment has proven quite as successful as the RECCO rescue system.

ALPINE SLIDE: Eight of the finest packages to escape and move you up, out, over and down

Backcountry skiing is as much about getting to something as it is getting away from something. Enticing us forward are untrammeled lines, huts, peaks, powder, corn, quiet, and a chance to dip our tips into the unknown.We should be free to ski the mountains of our choosing, and alpine touring gear is the dominant—and most efficient—tool to make that happen.To help you get a grip on the latest gear, we assembled the best of the new boots, bindings, and skis into eight packages that illustrate the spectrum alpine touring gear...

PUSH COMES TO SHOVEL: Two of the best shovels on the market

The D-grip and telescoping handle increases digging efficiency while reducing back pains. Favored by pros and patrollers, this is Black Diamond's largest and strongest shovel that includes a serrated edge for boot traction....