Industry News

Introduction:

Venturing into the alpine backcountry on skis or a splitboard offers unparalleled freedom and pristine terrain. However, this remoteness amplifies the consequences of any fall or impact. Beyond avalanche safety, protection against traumatic injuries from tree collisions, hidden obstacles, or hard falls during steep descents is paramount. Traditional backcountry layering focuses on weather protection and temperature regulation, often leaving critical impact zones like the spine and shoulders vulnerable. Bulky armor is impractical for the sustained uphill effort of skinning. The solution requires integrating high-performance, low-bulk impact protection directly into the layering system – exemplified by the Removable D30 Padded Base Layer.

The Problem of Remote Impact Risk in the Backcountry:
Backcountry skiing and riding involve navigating complex, unmitigated terrain. A fall onto a submerged rock, a collision with a tree well, or a tumble down a rocky chute can cause severe back or shoulder injuries. In remote locations, even a non-life-threatening spinal injury can become a major rescue operation. Standard mid-layers or shells offer no meaningful impact absorption. Carrying separate hard armor adds significant weight and bulk, conflicting with the efficiency needed for long tours and ascents. Furthermore, the intense physical exertion of skinning demands exceptional breathability and moisture management from every layer to prevent overheating and sweat saturation, which can lead to dangerous chilling during transitions or descents.

Solution: The Touring-Optimized Removable D30 Protective Base Layer:
Designed for seamless integration into demanding backcountry layering systems, the Removable D30 Padded Snowboard T-Shirt provides essential core protection without compromising the weight, breathability, or moisture management required for alpine touring. The CE certified D30 inserts offer scientifically proven impact absorption specifically for the Back & Shoulder, the areas most susceptible to life-altering trauma in the event of a significant fall or collision.

Its genius lies in its minimalism and integration. The 80% Polyester + 20% Spandex fabric is the cornerstone of its backcountry functionality. This blend ensures exceptional Breathable, Quick Dry and Moisture Wicking performance, actively managing sweat during strenuous ascents to keep the skin dry and core temperature regulated. The fabric's inherent stretch allows full range of motion for efficient kick-turns and stride. The slip-on design makes it Easy to take on and take off, even in a tent or hut, and ensures a comfortable, non-restrictive fit under shells and insulating mid-layers. The Removable D30 pads offer versatility; remove them for the ascent on lower-risk days or to significantly reduce drying time after intense exertion.

Key Benefits for Backcountry Skiers & Splitboarders:

• Essential Core Protection in High-Consequence Terrain: D30 shielding for the spine and shoulders mitigates risk from impacts with rocks, ice, and trees in uncontrolled environments.

• Minimal Weight/Bulk Penalty: Integrates vital protection without the impractical weight and volume of traditional armor, preserving touring efficiency.

• Optimized Thermoregulation: Superior breathability and moisture wicking prevent overheating on the ascent and dangerous chilling caused by sweat saturation during transitions or descents.

• Unrestricted Movement: Stretch fabric and flexible D30 allow natural, efficient movement for skinning, boot-packing, and technical descents.

• Layering System Harmony: Low-profile design fits perfectly under technical shells and mid-layers, adding protection without compromising fit or freedom.

• Adaptability & Convenience: Removable pads allow customization based on objective risk and simplify washing after multi-day trips (packed in opp bag).

Conclusion:
Backcountry adventures demand preparation that balances safety, performance, and efficiency. Incorporating the Removable D30 Padded Snowboard T-Shirt into an alpine touring layering system addresses a critical gap: providing CE-certified, high-level impact protection for the vulnerable spine and shoulders directly within a high-performance base layer. Its focus on breathability, moisture management, low bulk, and ease of use makes it a practical and essential component for skiers and splitboarders seeking confidence and protection while exploring the vast, unpredictable beauty of the backcountry.