Side-country adventures provide the benefits of both letting the lift do the uphill work for you and getting fresh untracked turns. However, when you are ducking boundary lines you are leaving the safety net of the ski patrol. With the proper training and knowledge this can be a fully rewarding and safe risk. But you will need some equipment.
When all you need is the essentials the Gambler has got your back. Carry a shovel, avalanche probe and 3L water in a compact, glove-friendly pack with a Therminator harness to help prevent freezing.
CamelBak.com
$95
pacificrepworks.com 