Answering the call of the white mountain tops with glistening snow-covered hills awaiting your snowboarding journey can be an intimidating task. There are so many options to consider when looking for the gear that will make your experience the best it can be. Splitboard skins are one of the most important parts of your gear, as they are essential components to a successful backcountry snowboarding experience. In this article, we will go into detail on the items needed in order to make the right selection when it comes to choosing splitboard skins for backcountry snowboarding.
What is a Splitboard Skin?
Splitboard skins are removable fabric-like material that cling to your board when lifting or trekking uphill in the backcountry. This material comes in a variety of shapes and sizes to allow the maximum bond to your board. The adhesive on the back side of the skin is waterproof and very sticky, so its an extremely secure fit to your board. It is important to choose the right skins for your splitboard that maximize functionality for your snowboarding requirements.
Components of Skins
Grippy Grips
The grip of the skin helps to make a durable connection between your board and the skin material, allowing for secure and surefooted transport of your snowboard in the backcountry. The material of the skin needs to be able to conform to the contours of your board, but also remain firmly attached when on the move.
Tough Durability
Abrasion resistance against sharp rocks and jagged surfaces is an important component to consider when selecting splitboard skins. The material of the skin needs to be able to withstand the wear and tear of backcountry terrain while also remaining lightweight and flexible.
Lightweight Flexibility
The skins must be able to stretch and move when you move, and remain light enough not to burden you in your backcountry travel. Too-heavy skins can be a hindrance and make your mountain travels more difficult than necessary.
Fur and Not Fur
Fur Based Skins
The most popular options for splitboard skins is fur-based blends, as these provide maximum grip in challenging terrain and the flexibility needed to move around the backcountry. The downside of these skins is that they are more prone to water absorption, and are more likely to need a mid-run wax replenishment in order to retain their performance level.
Non-Fur Based Skins
An alternative option for skins is a non-fur based blend, which can provide better durability to water absorption and more reliability when going from one location to another during your backcountry snowboarding journey. Non-fur based skins are also more pliable in terms of grip and protective layers, but are not as reliable in tricky slopes and contoured terrain.
Price and Performance
Spending Less
More budget-oriented skins are available for lower costs, with slightly less performance capabilities than more expensive skins. But for the less experienced splitboarder, these cheaper options can be a great starting place, as they can still provide the necessary performance requirements to keep you safely maneuvering the backcountry.
Spending More
If your rides including a higher level of risk and tricky terrains, then it may be worth investing in the more pricey skins which provide higher performance capabilities and better durability in tough conditions. The more expensive options may offer a longer life cycle, but the difference may not be worth it in terms of the performance benefits they provide.
People Also Ask
How do you attach splitboard skins?
Splitboard skins are attached by peeling the adhesive backing off of the skin and carefully applying it to the base of your snowboard.
How dangerous is backcountry snowboarding?
Backcountry snowboarding can be dangerous and should only be attempted with proper safety preparation and knowledge of the terrain. Proper safety equipment and avalanche awareness training are essential before attempting a backcountry snowboarding journey.
Can I use splitboard skins for regular snowboarding?
Splitboard skins are specifically designed for backcountry snowboarding and should not be used on regular snowboarding terrain.
What is the best material for splitboard skin?
The best materials for splitboard skins are fur-based blends, which provide the right grip and flexibility needed for a successful backcountry journey.
What temperature should I apply splitboard skins?
Best temperature to apply splitboard skins is between 0-25 Celsius degree.
Final Words
Splitboard skins are essential components of a successful and safe snowboarding experience. Taking the time to consider what attributes and advantages each skin material has to offer is the key to selecting the right splitboard skins for you and your backcountry journey. With this information in hand, you are now prepared to choose the best skins for your next backcountry adventure.