Essential shovels for backcountry skiing | Models you'll want to try in the 2022-2023 season

It combines a carbon shaft with a thick aluminum plate. It is very light and sturdy, and has high digging capacity. The shaft is short and easy to handle

Length: 62~76cm (45cm when shortened)
Weight: 490g
￥12,300

BCA's new DOZER series was launched in 2022 under the catchphrase "Dig Like a Machine!". The newly designed shaft features a modified oval cross section that's durable and easy to use, and is robust enough to prevent ice buildup when extended or retracted. Made from high-strength aluminum, the blade is hollowed out to reduce the weight to just 435g

Length: 79cm (38.7cm when shortened)
Weight: 435g
￥10,780

This is what it looks like when you attach the blade to the handle of the shaft. When you need to quickly shovel out debris or large chunks of snow, you can easily transform it into a hoe. It's also great for digging snow caves. Available in two colors: blue and orange

Length: 60cm (38.7cm when shortened)
Weight: 765g
¥10,450

UIAA certification guarantees superior strength and durability. It can be used as a shovel or converted into a hoe for versatility. The reinforced shaft connection ensures durability for all-season use by patrol and guides. The large D-shaped handle increases digging efficiency and speed. It also has rescue sled functionality

Length: 91cm (68cm when shortened)
Weight: 794g
￥13,530

This classic shovel is perfect for any backcountry situation. The two-piece telescoping shaft provides a comfortable grip, while the smooth blade cleans pits. UIAA certification ensures superior strength and durability, and it's a great value. It also features rescue sled functionality

Length: 79cm (61cm when shortened)
Weight: 692g
￥7,480

Compact and lightweight. The tip of the blade is shaped like a sword, making it easy to penetrate hard snow. It is suitable for digging through packed snow in early spring and hard debris. The telescopic shaft is made of a non-slip material. Its thin design makes it easy to store in a backpack

Length: 57-79cm (64.5cm when shortened)
Weight: 630g
￥9,350

The blade is made of hardened aluminum and meets UIAA standards, ensuring superior strength and durability. The ergonomically designed T-grip ensures optimal strength transfer and excellent digging capacity. The space-saving blade design also contributes to weight reduction. The longer shaft reduces fatigue

Length: 86cm (61cm when shortened)
Weight: 645g
￥14,300

The T-shaped handle makes it easy to grip and apply force, and the longer shaft maximizes this effect. The angle between the blade and shaft is perfect for easy digging. It's made of lightweight 6000 series duralumin with a hard anodized finish. Its durability is also impressive. It also has a rescue sled function

Length: 84cm (61.5cm when shortened)
Weight: 690g
￥12,100

This is the best-selling and lightest ORTOVOX brand shovel in Japan. It has also been UIAA certified since 2021, making it reliable for durability and usefulness. It weighs just 440g, making it extremely attractive for backcountry skiing, where weight is a major concern. It's also easy to handle and comfortable when digging into the snow

Length: Shovel (27 x 21 cm) Shaft (usable length 76 cm and 42 cm)
Weight: 440 g
¥11,120

This ultra-lightweight aluminum shovel is made from thick aluminum, making it strong enough to handle even hard snow. The ergonomically designed T-grip makes it easy to grip and apply force, efficiently transmitting maximum power

Length: Shovel (28 x 21 cm) Shaft (usable length 86 cm and 45 cm)
Weight: 625 g
￥7,260

Equipped with a hoe mode. This lightweight, highly functional telescopic shovel supports effective rescue operations. It features a C-shaped handle that is easy to operate even when wearing thick gloves, and an oval shaft that does not rotate during operation. The quick-lock system allows the handle and blade to be connected without pressing a button. It also has a rescue sled function

Length: 90cm (Blade size 30.5cm)
Weight: 720g
￥10,670

This ultra-lightweight, compact shovel features a unique blade shape that makes it easy to carry snow. It also features a non-slip footrest on the shoulders. It's highly durable and includes a sled rescue function

Length: 68cm (45cm when shortened)
Weight: 500g
￥6,600