Always do a Tune Up Before Going in to the Backcountry

Going in to the backcountry requires a lot of preparation.  This includes being physically fit, mentally prepared, and of course having the right gear.  Unlike riding on the resort, you won’t find screwdrivers attached to maps at the top of the hill.  So, be prepared by tuning up beforehand and bringing the appropriate tools in to the backcountry.

Like many of you, I have done the backcountry duct tape repair jobs on my gear; it is not a great position to be in.  This type of situation can often be avoided if a proper tune up was done before going out.

Here is a very basic checklist for a pre-backcountry trip tune up:

• Skis/board waxed and edges tuned
• Binding screws are all tightly in place
• Binding/boot risers are in place and working
• Skin glue is fresh and covers to edges of skins
• Skin toe and heel clips hold tightly to skis

These are the basics to make sure you are able to transport yourself up the hill.  I won’t go in to detail for each today, but here are a couple extra tips:

1. Whenever any screw on your bindings are even slightly loose, remove them and cover with thread locker before re-tightening.  Your bindings are subject to thousands of impacts throughout a trip in the backcountry so make sure those screws are held tight!

2. If your skin glue starts to wear out, before doing a full glue replacement or buying new skins, try the Black Diamond Gold Label Skin Adhesive (no affiliation, I just love this product).  This is for patch repairs to your skin glue.  I used it at the beginning of last season and the glue is still holding like new.

Lastly, don’t forget to carry a multi-tool with you.  It’s very important that you are able to do small hill-side repairs when necessary.  Do not under-estimate the value of pliers in the backcountry.

Stay safe, stay Savvy, and get out there!

Avi Kleiman
Founder, Savvy Touring Company Ltd.
For Life in the Backcountry