OCTOBER BAR CODE: Gear you want for resort accessed backcountry

With personal responsibility still torpid in North America, ski areas have slowly but surely managed to grant access to adjoining backcountry—or sidecountry. Places like Jackson Hole, Mount Baker, alta, Kicking Horse, jay peak, and a slew of others have sidecountry so good it should be criminal (not that we want to give them any ideas). With fat skis and high-speed quads eating up powder like Kobyashi chows wieners, we’ve compiled a list of gear to help you go beyond the ropes.

Black Diamond Covert with AvaLung $190
[801.278.5552; blackdiamondequipment.com]

Unstable snow is your enemy. Fortunately, the Covert’s integrated AvaLung has your back. A zippered access on the left shoulder houses the hose and mouthpiece you’ll want to have out when traveling through high-risk terrain. The hose tucks away out of sight when not in use, and also acts as a remedy for chairlift boredom.

Hestra Seth Morrison and Anthony Boronowski Pro $150 (SM), $120 (AB)
[303.384.9969; hestrausa.com]

Born from mitts used by Swedish tree-slayers 70 years ago, Hestra gloves now serve mountain-slayers like Seth Morrison and Anthony Boronowski. The Morrison features a lower profile and a Velcro strap so your gloves don’t fly off when launching 65-foot front flips. On colder days, the Boronowski is the lofty option. Anthony’s art influence proves sensitive dudes can be killers.

Scott Community Service $90
[208.622.1000; scottusa.com]

“A safer you is a safer me.” Scott’s limited edition Alias frame may not actually make you safer beyond the ropes, but you’ll sure as hell be more visible. Compact frame size and anti-fogging lens treatment allow the Alias to compliment most helmets. Take action in your community and reflect brightly.

Voile Mini Telepro T6 Shovel $48
[801.973.8622; voile-usa.com]

Pack-friendly, the T6 extends for better leverage, and the d-grip is essential for moving lots of snow in a hurry. The heat-treated aluminum blade holds strong when digging through avie debris, and deadman holes on the blade function for rescue sleds or emergency anchors.

Under Armour Base 2.0 $50
[888.427.6687; underarmour.com]

From the sports field to the mountain, Under Armour is debuting new winter product this fall. The Base lineup comes in various weights, with the Base 2.0 the best suited for winter sports. Utilizing a unique lofted knit, the 2.0 passes moisture and locks in belly-button heat without excessive lint trappings. Strategic seam placement and flat lock stitching ensure comfort and performance but, unfortunately for skiers, not the bulging biceps found on LaDainian Tomlinson.
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