Backcountry snowboarding is another world. No fancy faux village, fireside warming, or ski-patrol hut. Rules and regulation are reliant on self, yet bound to the laws of nature. This realm is ripe, though, and the riding is limitless–”the best,” some acclaim. To endure and excel here, one will need these essential tools. Choose wisely and go wander.

Black Diamond Covert Avalung Pack, $220. A trusty pack that features the award-winning and life-saving avalung device built right into the pack. BlackDiamondEquipment.com. Photo: Chris Wellhausen

For more backcountry ncessities, visit TransworldSnowboarding.com.