Absolutely, without exception. If you're traveling in backcountry terrain where avalanches are possible, you must carry a beacon, probe, and shovel—and know how to use them. Take an AIARE 1 or equivalent avalanche course before your first backcountry tour. Avalanche accidents are the leading cause of fatalities in backcountry snowsports, and they can happen on surprisingly mild slopes. No powder line is worth risking your life. Budget for avalanche gear and training as a non-optional part of your splitboarding investment.
Snowboard · Splitboard
Do I really need avalanche safety gear and training for splitboarding?
Related gear types
If this answer nudged you toward a different style, these guides compare specs and trade-offs.
Freeride Snowboard
$400 – $900
Directional snowboard built for aggressive riding in off-piste and variable backcountry terrain.
Directional shapeStiff flexSet-back stance
Powder Snowboard
$400 – $900
Specialized snowboard with maximum float and surfy feel for deep powder conditions.
Dramatic setback stanceWide rockered noseTapered tail
More questions
- Can I use my regular snowboard bindings on a splitboard?
- How much slower is a splitboard on the uphill compared to touring skis?
- How do I choose the right size splitboard?
- Is a splitboard worth it if I only tour a few times a season?