The North Face has launched a 14-city KNOW Boundaries Snow Safety Tour, pairing athletes including, Ian McIntosh, Dana Flahr, Lucas Debari and Conrad Anker with The North Face and REI stores countrywide. The tour will provide information for safe backcountry travel, the knowledge, skills and training required.
Paired with the tour is a five-part KNOW Boundaries video series designed to raise awareness about snow safety and avalanche dangers. The North Face partnered with Teton Gravity Research (TGR) to create the three to five minute videos which feature TGR lead guide Kent Scheler and various North Face athletes.
Among The North Face athletes featured is Jimmy Chin who can provide firsthand experience, Chin survived a 1,000 foot avalanche slide in April 2011. “The best advice I can give is to take all the variables that are within your control to avoid an avalanche,” Chin says.
To keep adventurers safe The North Face has incorporated Recco avalanche rescue reflectors into products like the Enzo Jacket and Powder Guide Vest. The Powder Guide vest also has a number of features designed to help skiers and snowboarders including a exterior shovel head securing system and a pocket for a probe.
While the proper gear is important, it is up to the consumer to remain safe. However, certain gear in the Summit Series and Cryptic line will provide helpful reminders. These items will sport a "Snow Safety Checklist" on the inner label to remind adventurers what to bring and how to prepare before heading into the backcountry. Icons include a map or compass, food and water, first aid kit, shovel, probe, fire, avalanche beacon, multi-use tool, headlamp or flashlight, extra layers, an emergency blanket and telling a friend of your plans.
For more information on snow safety, visit thenorthface.com/knowboundaries or powdermag.com to watch the KNOW Boundaries safety videos.
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