BRANDS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FOR YOUR BACKCOUNTRY CLOTHING

Whether you're a seasoned backcountry skier, hiking to ski an untouched face or are just starting to explore the backcountry, one thing is for sure, your outerwear needs to stand up to the more challenging conditions you'll face. So to make sure you're up to the challenge, we've got the lowdown from our snowsports buyers on the must-have backcountry brands.

One of the first things you'll learn when starting out in the backcountry, is that your usual outerwear and layering system just will not cut it. Whether you are hiking in mid-thigh powder to ski some pillows or skinning up a mountain face to lay tracks where no one else has, you'll get a lot hotter than usual. This increase in heat and perspiration will in turn make you feel colder when skiing down.

Making sure your outerwear is both extremely waterproof and breathable is essential. Most backcountry jacket and pants will have loads of additional features, compared to your normal outerwear, such as zip ventilation, to help prevent overheating and will use of highly technological materials to protect you against stormy conditions and deep snow. 

So, if you're seeking to update your backcountry gear this season you can't go wrong with these clothing brands:

Arc’teryx are known for their high-quality craftsmanship. Founded in 1989 by Vancouver climbers, the company has always had one goal; to create equipment that enables people to immerse themselves in the moment, regardless of external conditions. This ideology, along with a deep passion and understanding of what a backcountry skier needs, has seen Arc’teryx create some of the best backcountry dedicated outerwear.

Featuring the most advanced technologies, Arc'teryx design clothing that you can put to the test in the harshest climes. They continually strive to produce lighter yet more technical clothing, obsessing over details to deliver the best possible products.  

FW was born in the Alps, and life at high altitude has taught them a thing or two about producing clothes that perform no matter what the conditions. Pushing the boundaries of snowsports clothing, they synergise style and performance to redefine the norm.

The FW Manifest range is geared to the backcountry, with stretch fabrics designed to move with the body while masterfully repelling snow, rain and wind, so you can be confident that no move is off-limits.

What’s more, FW is committed to acting against climate change to help protect our wild playgrounds. As a member of 1% for the planet and only use materials that align with their meticulous durability and sustainability goals.  

Everything they do at Burton starts in the mountains, so you know it’s a brand you can trust when facing the toughest conditions. 

The Burton [AK]® collection is all about providing dependable protection in all conditions. As well as proven cold-weather performance, with innovative technical fabrics that keep you dry in deep snow and stormy conditions, the range delivers maximum breathability on tough climbs.

Developed with riders who dare to venture into the unknown, the range delivers maximum mobility thanks to a rider-articulated fit. And, you get extra features, including ample venting to help you focus on your journey rather than your gear.  

The vision of one man dedicated to the snow, Planks was born from a passion for skiing, whatever the challenges. 

The brand embodies the essence of backcountry skiing with clothing built with freedom and functionality in mind. They combine high-performance fabrics with their signature style so you can concentrate on what matters – the powder.  And their top line technical wear provides all-day comfort, however epic your day gets.