Splitboarding is a fast-growing snowboarding discipline, offering snowy mountain enthusiasts the freedom and unique experience of riding off the beaten track. But before you embark on this adventure, it's important to know the basics and the equipment you need to enjoy the backcountry to the full. In this guide, we'll help you choose your equipment and give you some tips on how to get started.
What is splitboarding?
The splitboard is a snowboard that splits into two parts, enabling the whole assembly to be transformed into touring skis on the way up. Once at the summit, the two parts are reassembled to form one snowboard and enjoy the powdery descent away from the lifts. This discipline combines the pleasures of touring and freeriding, while reducing the environmental impact of using ski lifts.
How to choose your splitboard?
Several criteria are important to consider:
- Size: as with a classic snowboard, size depends on your weight and level of riding. Choose a longer board for greater flotation in deep snow, and a shorter one if you're a beginner.
- Shape: there are several board shapes, the "directional" shape being the most common in splitboarding to facilitate ascent and descent. More specific models, such as those with a rocker or reverse camber, are also available to suit your style and snow conditions.
- Stiffness (flex ): a stiffer board will offer more stability and grip when climbing, while a more flexible board will allow easier turns and better adaptation to the terrain when descending.
- Bindings: it's important to choose a binding that's compatible with your snowboard boot and your splitboard's mounting system. Bindings dedicated to splitboarding are often lighter and more technical than those for classic snowboarding. And don't forget to check how easy they are to adjust, and how easy they are to make the transition from ascent to descent.
- Sealskins: these non-slip strips are glued to the underside of your skis to make it easier to climb on snow. It's essential to choose skins adapted to the size and shape of your board, and with good grip to avoid wearing out your strength unnecessarily on the ascent.
- Durability and construction: Quality construction is essential to ensure the durability and performance of your splitboard. Look for a board with a sturdy top cover, a scratch-resistant sole and a secure, reliable binding system.
The advantages of a splitboard
Here are some of the main advantages of splitboards over other mountain equipment:
- Mobility: Splitboards offer greater mobility when climbing, thanks to their ability to be used like touring skis, eliminating the need to remove your boots and carry your board.
- Performance: When put together, they offer the same feel and performance as traditional snowboards, allowing you to enjoy the ride to the full.
- Versatility: Thanks to their hybrid nature, splitboards are ideal for those who want to enjoy both the thrills of ski touring and the sensations of snowboarding.
Basic rules and tips for getting started
Once you've chosen your equipment, it's time to hit the slopes. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Training in equipment handling
Whether you're setting up, dismantling or adjusting your bindings, take your time to familiarize yourself with the operation of your splitboard and its accessories. Don't hesitate to watch online video tutorials to learn the right techniques.
Never leave home alone
As with any outdoor activity, it's essential to share your adventures with one or more companions. This not only enhances safety, but also the pleasure of discovering off-the-beaten-track spots!
Check weather and snow conditions
Before each outing, check the weather and avalanche risks to adapt your route and minimize the dangers. And don't forget to take a compass and a topographical map with you, so you don't get lost along the way.
Master mountain self-rescue techniques
It's essential to be trained in life-saving techniques and to learn how to use safety equipment (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe) correctly, so you can intervene quickly in the event of an accident. Finally, don't forget to pack enough water, food and warm clothing to face the elements without taking unnecessary risks. With all these tips in mind, you're ready to take up splitboarding and explore the snowy peaks with pleasure and responsibility. Enjoy your ride!
Want to get off the beaten track and discover new snowy slopes? The splitboard is the ideal choice for snowboard enthusiasts wishing to venture into the backcountry. In this guide, we'll take you through the essential criteria for choosing your next board, as well as a few models that caught our eye.
Our selection of splitboards to watch
We have selected several splitboard models that stand out for their quality and performance.
Splitboard for freeriders
For freeride enthusiasts, we recommend the Apex Series from Arbor Snowboards. This board is designed to offer exceptional floatation and stability in all conditions, while enabling fast, controlled turns.
Splitboard for freestylers
If you're a freestyle fan who wants to go off-piste, take a look at the Jones Mountain Twin Split. Thanks to its twin geometry, this board is just as capable of performing tricks as it is of gliding down powder slopes with ease.
