Backcountry Introduction: How to Use Ski Poles by Lost Arrow Backcountry Ski Gear Experience

Backcountry skiing requires a variety of equipment in addition to the gear you use at a ski resort. Since
you're venturing into unmanaged snow-covered mountains and engaging in climbing in addition to skiing, equipment similar to that used for a short winter mountain climb is essential, regardless of the duration or location of your trip.

Therefore, we covered the "Backcountry Ski Gear Experience" workshop held at the end of January, hosted by Lost Arrow, a company that handles backcountry ski gear from brands like Black Diamond and Scarpa. We've extracted some footage from the workshop, which taught the proper use and handling of hike-up gear and avalanche gear, and compiled it into a collection of how-to videos for backcountry beginners. There are a total of 10 videos.

This time, we
're focusing on ski poles. Our instructor, mountain guide Genki Narumi, gave us a lecture on ski poles. He'll explain the appropriate length and adjustment methods for hiking uphill, as well as how to grip them in the backcountry.

Step 1: Length and grip when hiking up.

*The content introduced here is only a part of the training course.

・Gear used in this video

Black Diamond Traverse 3-Pole

Introducing an aluminum traverse pole model with three adjustable positions. The top section is 18mm in diameter, the middle section is 16mm, and the bottom section is 14mm. Recommended for skiers and especially snowboarders who want a more compact design to carry. The hook-shaped grip top makes it easy to operate the buckle and heel lifter, making it a valuable addition to any hike. A rubber extension grip underneath the grip makes it easy to frequently fine-tune your grip. The length adjustment uses the proven, trusted flick lock system

Interview cooperation/Lost Arrow
Video shooting and editing/Daiki Yoshikawa
Video composition and text/Shinya Moriyama