Cardigan FAQ

BACKCOUNTRY EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST

Pack contents depend upon the length and type of trip as well as snow and weather conditions. Besides the obvious (skis, boots, and poles), participants need to bring Clothing, Food, Repair, and Safety items. As trip co/leader, you need to be prepared for equipment breakdowns, carry extra clothing, and be prepared for possible injuries during your tour. You'll want to send your group a checklist with your poop sheet so they don't forget something important.

**Basics: Safety & Repair: First Aid:**
Ski, Boots, Poles Parka or Shell Pack Water Bottle ¹ Lunch & Munchies² Bandanna Lip balm sunscreen Ski Wax (blue, purple, red) scraper Climbing Skins	Sunglasses (eye protection)³ Knee Pads Headlamp⁴ Duct Tape Army knife / Pliers tool Safety Pins Extra Straps or Light Rope Whistle Paper/pencil Large ziplock / plastic bags Waterproof matches Fire starter or candle	Bandaids / Antiseptic wipes Moleskin Gauze pads / sanitary napkin Laytex gloves Ace bandage Athletic tape Small knife Aspirin/Ibuprofen Heat packs for hands/feet Triangular bandage (sling)
CO/LEADERs: Map & Compass Thermos Extra Down vest Small Saw Watch	Small tarp (4X6) Aluminum flashing and Hose clamps (for pole repair) Extra binding screws	Thermorest⁵ Extra straps (for splint) Sleeping Bag

NOTES:

1- Carry 1-2 Liters of water. Wide mouth bottles are less likely to freeze shut. Water bags (such as camel-backs) can freeze on bitter cold days.
2- Carry high-energy foods with high fat and sugar content. Peanut butter & honey, nuts & chocolate, hard candy like Jolly Rogers.
3- Glasses or goggles are needed to protect your eyes from tree branches.
4- Replace batteries each fall and check bulb when packing up. Winter days are short and some ski trips have ended up skiing out in the dark.
5- Thermorest, ski poles, and straps can make an excellent splint. The tarp can be used as a crude sled or litter.

CLOTHING CHECKLIST
Importance of clothing is crucial for enjoying winter sports; it can become life-threatening if not done correctly. Backcountry skiers are constantly shedding or adding layers to maintain the correct balance between too cold and too hot. A good wicking layer and avoiding overheating/sweating will help you stay dry. Protection from wind is also important in New England; a gortex parka with hood and wind pants in your pack are a must for every ski tour. Downhill Skiers need extra protection from wind during the ride up the mountain.

**Best Materials Good Materials Poor Material**
Polypropylene or polyester Nylon Pile or fleece Coolmax, thermax, or capilene	Wool Silk¹ Down²	Cotton³

1- Silk has marginal wicking abilities
2- Down is a good insulator, lightweight, and compact. However, it is useless when wet. Carry a down vest in your pack protected with a waterproof stuff sack.
3- COTTON KILLS. Cotton absorbs water while losing all insulation properties. Think of it as wearing a wet towel while outdoors in winter. As soon as you stop to rest, you will become cold and clammy. Leave your Jeans at home.

**WICKING LAYER INSULATION LAYER OUTER SHELL**
Light - midweight long underwear top Light - midweight long underwear bottoms Synthetic sports bra (women) Poly or Silk briefs Light - midweight liner socks (2 pr)	Light - Medium thickness top Light - Midweight pants or tights Thick sweater / top or Down vest Headband or earmuffs Full Hat Glove liners¹ Heavy gloves or mittens Midweight or heavy socks	Breathable, waterproof parka (with hood)² Breathable, waterproof wind pants (full zips)³ Face mask or balaclava Ski goggles Over-Mitten shells Gaiters

NOTES:

1- Backcountry skiers are often opening their packs to add or shed layers, digging out water or munchies, or adjusting their boots or bindings. These tasks cannot be done wearing mittens, so Glove Liners are important for keeping your hands warm and dry.
2- Gortex and other breathable fabrics must be maintained. Iron after washing to keep pores clear and apply waterproofing once per year. See manufacturers instructions for specifics.
3- Full Zip pants have zippers on each side, so one may add this layer withOUT taking off your boots. This can be crucial in situations when wind suddenly appears and temperatures drop quickly.