Take an avalanche safety course (AIARE and AAI are best) so you know the basics. Some beacons will show the battery power only when powered on, while others will display it on the screen at all times. Most of the beacons here appeal to recreational users, but ski guides, patrollers, and avalanche professionals need additional functionality. Those new to avalanche rescue might find the verbal directions especially usefulstudies have shown that in an emergency, voice cues can be processed more quickly than visual cues. If your beacon fails its test, it should display an error code and/or sound an alert. 
Some skiers put the snorkel in their mouth before dropping in on an iffy slope, or while skiing through glades where tree wells are known to form. For a lot of users, these unique additions make the Diract Voice a very attractive option, and it doesnt hurt that its priced competitively at $380. You get the same simplicity and usability that we love in the Zoom, but with added features like signal suppression (marking a victim in a multiple-burial scenario), fine-search visuals, and updatable software. This is also the range in which beacons become the most reliableyou might start to get a signal from 50 or 60 meters away, but it is still likely to bounce around or disappear and come back depending on which direction youre facing. While other transceivers tend to have a slower processing speed in close range, I found that the Diracts fine search mode seemed just as fast and accurate as the rough search mode, claims one tester who used it to practice beacon drills on a hut trip in Colorados southern San Juans.
Down below, there are many more layers. This metal or plastic card features a measured grid so you have a uniform surface to analyze individual grains of snow to determine size and shape. More importantly, the quick-pull system is foolproof and deploys in a flash. This email is restricted from joining Expedition Perks. Itll run you $90 more than the pared-down Ortovox Zoom+ below but boasts a greater range (55m vs. the Ortovoxs 40m), better processing speed, and advanced functions like signal suppression (great for those who plan to continue their avalanche training and education). Without going too deep into the details, the important thing to understand here is that analog beacons can pick up transmitting signals from farther away through the use of audio transmissions (most beacons with analog capability come with a headphone jack). We havent personally experienced or heard of any issues with the durability or handling of the Tracker3, but the latest 4 is even more robust and easy to use. Every measurement syncs to your smartphone (via Bluetooth), which uploads it to the web for others to use in their decision-making. Staying safe in the avalanche terrain depends on smart decision-making. With the highest psi (and power) of any available system, though, it doesnt compromise on performance. including the case) and runs on just one AA battery. Auto-revert functionality differs considerably among beacon models and could very well be a deciding factor in which model you choose. The T-grip is the most common, and generally functions well. Editors note: There are inherent risks to traveling in avalanche terrain, and we do not condone the use of a beaconor any avalanche safety toolswithout proper education. The 7075 aluminum is as strong as steel and the 216-square-inch bladebig enough for moving snow efficiently in an emergency scenariofit easily into our slimmest ski mountaineering pack alongside the telescoping shaft with a T-handle. Customization is another selling point: you can configure acoustic and visual settings, adjust the auto-revert function, and personalize your home screen. Handles come in three basic shapes: T-grip, D-grip, and L-shaped. Probes generally range in length from 190 to 320cm (75 to 125in) when fully extended, and 15 to 18 inches when collapsed. Alongside a great battery life (250 hours in transmit mode) and competitive signal range (55m), you get features like a multiple-burial indicator and optional motion-sensing auto revert, which adds an extra dose of assurance in the case of a secondary slide. Join Outside+ to get Backpacker magazine, access to exclusive content, 1,000s of training plans, and more. Often, the more important spec is a beacons dimensions, as many prefer streamlined models that can slip into their pants pocket (our top pick, the BCA Tracker3, is well-liked for its minimalist build). If you're venturing away from the resort runs, protect yourself with lifesaving tech. Knowing where to dig can be the difference between seconds of digging and minutes of digging, which may make a critical difference. In addition to weight, the canisters and airbag take up crucial cargo space. In search mode, the beacon can pick up more than one signal, but it does not have a marking function (also known as signal suppression) to assist with a multiple-burial search. The size of your pack will depend on the kind of touring youll be doing; day-long tours will require a larger pack, while you can go more streamlined for heli-riding or snowcat-accessed terrain. Battery life can vary a great deal between models. And looking at comparable options like the Tracker3 and Powder BT above, the 3+ offers similar features at a lower price, but its range is the smallest of the group. But if youre open to change, the Ortovox is an inventive new offering and comes with user-friendly features like Bluetooth connectivity and a light sensor that switches it back into send mode when darkness is detected (as in the case of a secondary avalanche).See the Ortovox Diract Voice. Most beacons have a legible screen that displays arrows and numbersdenoting distance and direction to the victims transmitting signaland a speaker that sounds alerts (that increase in cadence and often pitch) so you know when youre getting closer without constantly looking at your beacon. But while this might seem like a crucial spec to consider, its really not all that impactful. In an era when most headlamps and GPS devices have already switched over to rechargeable power, were excited to see the start of this shift in the beacon world.
If you opt for one of these latter models, youll want to be sure that your beacons internal settings are set to your battery of choice. That said, it is absolutely essential that your beacon be in good working condition. A slope meter allows you to measure the angle of the slope youre planning to ski. Weight: 7.9 oz.Maximum range: 60mBattery life: 400/600 hours (alkaline/lithium)What we like: Lots of customizable features made easy with smartphone connectivity.What we dont: Expensive and overkill for most. Some require that you take your beacon into a local shop or send it to the manufacturer for an update, while most can be upgraded via micro USB orin the case of Black Diamond/PIEPS modelsBluetooth connectivity. At $320, the Arva EVO5 adds up to one of the best values here. The high-pressure aspiration, along with the increased airflow of two separate airbags, helps them inflate up to twice as fast as other packs (between 2 and 2.5 seconds). Simple is often safer for beginners and recreational users, and many backcountry-goers will want to stick with options like the Tracker3 or Zoom+ above (or the standard Barryvox, which we outline below). And keep in mind that not only is avalanche education a great investment for yourself, but its incredibly important for your touring partners safety as well. For those who will utilize the features, the Barryvox is an exceptionally capable backcountry companion.See the Mammut Barryvox S. Weight: 7.8 oz.Maximum range: 60mBattery life: 200/300 hours (alkaline/lithium)What we like: Cheaper than the Tracker3 and features Bluetooth connectivity.What we dont: Battery life icon is a bit ambiguous. Those cues might appeal most to beginner backcountry travelers, but the beacon also has advanced features like detecting interference and then directing you to do smaller search strips when searching for a burial. The Avalanche Airbag: Practice doesnt make perfect, but it could save your ass in an avalanche. Supplement with a snow saw (the Brooks-Range Igloo 35 folding model ($59) saves space) and, if you like, a Rutschblock cord. Similar to the Tracker3 above, its a feature-rich yet easy-to-operate beacon that covers the bases for intermediate users. There are important considerations when making a purchase: What is your skill level? TSA tightly regulates travel with airbag packs that use a cylinder; rules will vary depending on the type of propellant. Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more. Just like a smartphone or computer, keeping your beacon up-to-date will help maximize its performance. This feature is not essential, but it is certainly nice to have, and especially for those who regularly adventure with larger groups. At the premium end of Arvas lineup is the Neo Pro, a beacon purpose-built for professionals and jam-packed with features and functionality. Picture this: one of your ski partners is buried in a slide.
And this might seem like a minor detail, but we love that the switches are large enough to operate while wearing bulky gloves or mittens. Finally, regardless of what manufacturers recommend, our take is that its always better to be safe than sorry. In the case of Ortovox's innovative Diract Voice, rescuers receive verbal cues to direct their search (such as "go down to the snow surface" and "you were closer"). Most airbag packs use a sealed, single-use cylinder or a refillable, multi-use cylinder (usually compressed air) to store the propellant that inflates the airbag. The BD-patented AvaLung extends your air supply and with it, your survival chances to nearly an hour by allowing you to draw air in through a strap-mounted snorkel attachment, and exhale through an exhaust port at the bottom of your pack. Shoveling technique is the next frontier in avalanche rescue research. Importantly, the slider lock has been tweaked with the new model (the prior design has been criticized over concerns with its durability). The Future of Snow Study: Digging snow pits is laborious, and reading them accurately requires a good deal of training and expertise. Most avalanche beacons perform a self-test when turned on, checking to see that the antennae are transmitting a signal and the battery has enough charge. But with so many options on the market and a growing assortment of features to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to begin. The Best New Winter Camping Gear for Finding Comfort in the Cold, The Coolest New Tech From Our 2022 Winter Gear Guide, Shoe-ins: The Best Gear for Winter Snowshoe Hikes in 2022, How to Transition From Resort Skiing to Backcountry Touring. In either case, however, the best beacon is the one that you know how to use. But there are steps we can take to increase our safety when traveling in the backcountry. But the new tech is undeniably intriguing, and those focused on shaving weight will appreciate the streamlined build. Finally, its worth mentioning that BCA also makes the Tracker S ($300), a slimmer and lighter version of the Tracker3 with a stripped-down feature set, including no upgradable software or motion-sensing auto-revert function.See the Backcountry Access Tracker3. I set this sled up about as quickly as I transition from ski to walk mode, says one tester who played with the SnapEvac 2.0 on a hut trip in Colorados Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. The fastest beacon search ever doesnt do you any good if you cant dig out your friend. Those who appreciate the burlier case might want to check out the PIEPS Powder BT above (or the identical Black Diamond Recon BT), which costs less at $340 and includes a better flagging function that doesnt shut off after a minute, as well as Bluetooth connectivity. Weight: 7.4 oz.Maximum range: 40mBattery life: 250 hoursWhat we like: Great price for a well-appointed and intuitive design.What we dont: Relatively short range and auto-revert function cant be turned off. Reaching up to 70 meters, it offers one of the broadest search widths and largest receiving ranges on the market, and the backlit screen is easy to read and interpret with a variety of helpful images (many will find this superior to the LED display of models like the Tracker3 above). If your beacon is having issues or you notice anything off, dont postpone getting a replacement or sending it in for repair. Add to that a slim, pocket-friendly shape and reasonable price tag, and its no secret why the Tracker3 is a best-selling beacon year after year. Now, youre trapped underneath snow and your beacon isnt transmitting a signal. A longer probe might be heavier and bulkier, but it gives you peace of mind knowing you have enough length to pinpoint a victim in a deep burial. It measures how much force (in minute kilopascals) it takes for the tip to break through each layer and displays snowpack stratigraphy, revealing any risky weak layers that might be lurking below. Get one, practice like your life depends on it, and then do everything in your power to keep from having to use it.
The small but mighty EVO5 sits right in the middle and has won us over with its lightweight, streamlined build and intuitive interface that includes a large, bright screen and centrally located flagging button. This is the maximum distance from which the beacon will be able to pick up a transmitting signal.
Avalanche beacons typically operate using AA or AAA alkaline batteries, although some (particularly those from Mammut and PIEPS/Black Diamond) can use alkaline or lithium. Unlike their lift-assisted alpine cousins, backcountry skis have two jobs: getting you uphill efficiently while retaining enough power to make the downhill worth the effort (and fun). It uses a rechargeable, lithium battery-powered jet fan to inflate a 200-liter overhead bag. A beacon is just one piece of the avalanche safety puzzle and should always be accompanied by both a probe and shovel. Please try again. Many backcountry-ready pants or bibs include a beacon clip, and it's highly recommended to use this feature. The Diract also gives corrections when youre going the wrong direction, tracking on a longer flux line, or holding the beacon too far above the snow in a fine search. 
For three decades, one-and-done compressed-air cylinders have been the standard for inflating airbags, but Black Diamonds disruptive new Jetforce technology is about to change that. The $2,250 unit is currently available to professionals only, but widespread adoption would result in crowd-sourced, standardized real-time avalanche risk data that could dramatically reduce the number of backcountry accidents. Its that simple. Turn your skis into a sled for gear or a rescue using the SnapEvac 2.0. Avalanche safety tech probes, shovels, beacons, airbags and the like has evolved a great deal over the past couple of decades as backcountry sports have grown in popularity. Lightweight avalanche shovels used to sacrifice considerable durability and surface area in the blade, which made the prospect of moving large quantities of firm snow in an emergency nerve-racking. The Neo Pro also offers a neutral standby mode that keeps the beacon from both transmitting and receiving for a period of time (ideal in teaching environments), and as we alluded to above, you can easily swap between analog and digital (a useful feature for multiple burial situations). The new Ortovox Diract Voice even has a light sensor that reverts back to transmit if it detects darkness. Please set your password using the link below. And keep an eye out for possible recalls toorecently, PIEPS and Black Diamond issued an immediate recall for all PIEPS DSP beacons (including the DSP Sport, DSP Pro, and DSP Pro Ice) due to a faulty lock mechanism that results in the transceiver accidentally switching out of transmit mode. Digging into slab avalanche debris is like shoveling concrete, and some methods, such as chop and drag, are more efficient than the standard method. All current avalanche beacons operate digitally, although a few high-end modelsincluding the Mammut Barryvox S, Black Diamond Guide BT, and Arva Neo Progive you the option of swapping between analog and digital modes. Touted as the smallest and lightest three-antenna beacon currently on the market (0.7 oz. The slip-proof grips are glove-friendly, and the flat blade is perfect for digging snow-pit walls.Pro Tip: As with your beacon and probe, you should practice rescue shoveling before somebodys life depends on it. Further, the Arvas battery life lags far behind, and is more similar to the recreational models in its price range. 
L-grips are the lightest in weight. Most importantly, you want to match the design and materials Another ski season is upon us, and to help navigate the confusing online environment, we have put together a list of our favorite websites for buying ski gear. This helps protect the beacon from getting damaged or ripped away from your body during an avalanche. Theres a surprising lack of light, packable rescue sled options available for winter backcountry users.
There are several basic types of airbags. Aluminum is the only choice for safety in avalanche terrain. If youre new to backcountry travel, simpler is almost always better when it comes to your beacon. But importantly, it still packs in a surprising number of features, including a flagging function, fairly large LED screen (its even larger than that of PIEPS Powder BT and Pro BT), and the ability to customize the auto-revert setting. Avalanche beacon models can vary quite a bit in how this function works: some of the higher-end options will show a list of all signals, and the user can select which signal to follow, while models like the Tracker3 can only suppress one signal and only for a minute (in our opinion, this is one of the Tracker3s biggest shortcomings). In the US, avalanches kill an average of 28 people each year. Given this features importance in keeping us safe, we like to have the option to customize (BCA does a great job of detailing reasons for this here).Multiple Burials and Signal Suppression We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. A beacon does not have to have a lot of extra features to be effective; in fact, if you are a beginner you might want to stick with a simpler model. On one hand, the beacon could switch back to transmit in the middle of a search; on the other, if the user were to get buried (in search mode) at the beginning of the 8-minute window, their chances of being found are slim. D-grip handles are bulkier and heavier, but can be easier to hold, especially with mittens.
Ortovoxs 3+ builds off our top-rated beginner pick, the Zoom+ above, making it a great choice for backcountry travelers of all experience levels. This Panerai Hits the Adventure Watch Sweet Spot, Brighten Your Summer with July's New Fitness Gear, Perform Better with Tommy John 360 Sport Underwear, Dad Grass Tinctures: Sleep, Chill and Recover, This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. Once-fluffy powder sets up like concrete after a slide, and quickly. But if all that fails you and you still find yourself in hazardous terrain or, worse, caught in an avalanche consider this kit your backup plan.
For those in the market for their first transceiver, the Tracker3 is a really nice choice.
Class Is in Session: In most mountain snowpacks, what you see at the surface is only part of the story. Most beacons are sold with a harness included, although Arva is one exception and sells them separately. In general, beacons can be broken down into two categories: those ideal for recreational use and those geared towards professionals such as ski guides, avalanche course instructors, and pro patrollers. Some skiers and riders, especially those who frequently head into avy-prone terrain, might also carry an avalanche airbag pack for extra assurance in the event of a slide. For additional information, see our comparison table and buying advice below the picks.
The best way to understand relative risk is to dig a snow pit and perform snowpack tests on a slope thats representative of what you plan to ski. The Guide BT is identical to PIEPS Pro BT beacon, which serves as an upgrade from the old PIEPS DSP Pro. We spent a day with the dogs of Brighton Avalanche Rescue K-9 (B.A.R.K.) Learn About Air Travel with an Airbag Pack. In the event that your beacon does malfunction, most manufacturers offer 2- to 3-year warranties. Be sure, too, that its at least one foot away from electronics (like a cell phone or GoPro) that might interfere with its signal. In the US, avalanches kill an average of 28 people each year, and those numbers are increasing along with the popularity of backcountry skiing and snowboarding. Oftentimes, brands will distinguish between search width (side-to-side range) and maximum search range (out in front of you), although the two numbers are always within the same ballpark. Shit happens, even on gorgeous bluebird days when the pow is deep and stoke-factor high. Avalanche professionals, on the other hand, often benefit from the advanced features and functionality that come with more expensive models like the Mammut Barryvox S ($500) and Black Diamond Guide BT ($450). Adventuring in the backcountry can be incredibly beautiful and rewarding, but there are a lot of inherent risks, and having the right gear is crucial to staying comfortable and safe.Back to Our Top Avalanche Beacon Picks Back to Our Beacon Comparison Table. The Arva Reactor Tour 25 Ultralight is lighter and inflates faster than most other packs on the market. Unless youre consistently a group leader, it likely wont be a deal-breaker in selecting the right beacon for you.
And at only 40 meters, the Zoom+s range is the shortest here (tied with Ortovox's 3+ below). The third iteration of the popular Tracker series earns our top pick for 2022by checking all the right boxes for recreational backcountry users. Many bags come with a removable airbag base unit that can be swapped out to a different cover pack according to your needs. But the steel canister on Arvas Reactor Airbag System is the smallest on the market, preserving the entirety of this packs 25-liter capacity. While we consider this an essential feature, we do wish Ortovox had built in the option to turn it on and off (the Tracker3 above prompts you to turn on the function each time you power on the beacon). As its name suggests, this kit includes most of the basics: slope meter, thermometer, folding ruler, magnifying loupe, snow crystal card and notebook for recording observations. If youre lucky, youll get away with your life and a new respect for the mountains. Its nearly impossible to determine the exact location of an avalanche victim using only a beacon; a probe is needed to pinpoint where you want to start excavating snow. Beacons will also show their battery life during the self-test (we outline batteries more in-depth below), and some models even let you know if theyre picking up electronic interference (such as from a cell phone). Inside, the coated stainless steel cable wont corrode, so you can rely on it for years to come.Pro Tip: If you primarily ski in lower-snowpack areas like Colorado or the East Coast a space-saving 240cm probe, like the G3 240 Speed Tech, should be adequate. All modern beacons operate digitally using three antennas (some have analog modes as well) and are powered by either AA or AAA alkaline batteries. MORE WINTER GEAR AND ADVENTURE: All-Mountain Skis | Power of 4 Ski Mountaineering Race | Winter Running Essentials. Then, thanks to some heavy-duty computing, it takes you straight to the victim rather than angling around on a flux line. But thats not to say the EVO5 doesnt have a lot going for it, and its especially appealing for skimo racers looking to shave weight and bulk.
Avalanche.org is a great place to start, and its also a good idea to get acquainted with your local avalanche center, where you can find the latest reports and snowpack information.