Niseko backcountry is ichiban!
Rhythm Snowsports, Niseko Announces New Backcountry Specialist Section!
Niseko offers some of the best backcountry skiing and snowboarding in the world. From its wide open powder bowls to perfectly spaced trees, the area has been blessed with ideal conditions for those who don’t mind earning their turns. For skiers and boarders who want to stay closer to home but enjoy the feeling of stepping beyond the resort boundaries, Niseko offers a variety of ‘side-country’ options. When the fresh snow inbound has been all skied out, it’s time to grab the skins or snowshoes and trek to where the lifts don’t reach!
While the pristine, untouched runs of the backcountry can be tantalising, it’s important that skiers and boarders only attempt to access them with the right knowledge and the correct equipment. New to Rhythm for the 2012 / 2013 winter is a dedicated backcountry section, stocking the latest gear for accessing terrain outside the ropes. This includes:
- Alpine touring skis
- Touring bindings
- Skins
- Avalanche transceivers
- Shovels
- Probes
- Backpacks
- Snowshoes
- Telescopic Poles
- First-aid kits
Safety Gear Checklist
Even the most experienced and cautious backcountry riders can get caught in an avalanche. For this reason its important to carry all the necessary safety gear. This includes everything we have listed above along with:
- A backcountry riding partner who also has all the necessary safety gear and training. Riding alone in the backcountry is never a good idea.
- A phone or a two way radio (with charged batteries!)
- If you are unfamiliar with Niseko’s backcountry terrain we recommend a guide.
- Many backcountry professionals also suggest wearing an Avalung, which is a device that will help you breath if you are buried in snow. These are available in the retail section of Rhythm Snowsports.
Rhythm Snowsports also stocks BCA Air Bags. The airbag system contains a compressed gas cylinder that inflates one or two airbags, which deploy when you pull a rip-cord on one of the shoulder straps, protecting your upper body and head from being bashed into deadfall and rocks. They also minimize burial depth and raise your chances of surviving an avalanche.
If you have any questions or would like advice on back country tour operators please contact us and we will point you in the right direction.
touring, back country, niseko, japan, hiking, tours, ski Japan, Hirafu, Rhythm
