The following article was originally printed in the October 2025 Issue of Slush. To get more articles and subscribe, click here.
Words: Nick Russell
Illustration: Kaia Sauter
Despite the pioneers of freeriding that have been silently climbing and riding monster lines around the world since the late 80’s, it’s come to my attention that splitboarding is still considered somewhat of a niche aspect within snowboarding. Though we’ve seen exponential growth in backcountry users over the past decade, especially in the post covid-era, many misconceptions remain to the mass population about these funny looking boards that are cut in half. Call it getting older or maturing in my own style of riding, but I’ve come to value all the intricacies that come along with self sufficient riding. The learning curve can be steep and deep at times, but every step is well worth the effort. The following series is merely a glimpse into some of the valuable tips I’ve learned along the way that may help in your quest to ride the fall line like Tom Burt.
THE GUIDING PRINCIPLES OF SPLITBOARDING
SPEND AS MUCH TIME IN THE MOUNTAINS AS POSSIBLE
The single best thing one can do to improve the human powered experience is to go out every day that your lifestyle allows. Splitboarding is the ultimate positive feedback loop. Meaning that the more you do it, the easier things get and more fun it becomes. Not only do you get stronger, but over time the body and mind adapt to whatever curveballs may get thrown your way. Seeing firsthand how the snowpack changes from day to day and storm to storm is invaluable.
STUFF MANAGMENT
One of the most common pitfalls for new splitboarders is struggling with their equipment, getting stressed mentally and physically. Isn’t this supposed to be meditative?! A board in two, bindings, skins, poles, safety gear, layers—it can feel overwhelming. Compared to resort riding it’s more baggage, but once you dial in your systems, the motions become second nature. Practice transitions at home in a dry environment; skins are a lot easier inside than on a windy ridge. Get acquainted with your pack, its contents, and especially your roll up kit. There’s no single correct way—just find what works best and repeat it every time.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Drink water and eat snacks. Simple enough, right? You’d be surprised how many people bonk out there because they failed to do the most basic human function there is. Staying hydrated with electrolytes and remembering to fuel yourself with snacks is the easiest way to increase your odds of shredding all day.
POWDER IS A STATE OF MIND
After a few outings searching for the best run of your life, you’ll quickly learn that finding untouched powder is harder than it looks in the movies and is something to be cherished. Whether it’s tracks from earlier risers or the bizarre weather of a warming planet, you’ll almost certainly hit less-than-favorable conditions. The only way to combat this (besides pestering elected officials for clean energy) is shifting your mindset to appreciate all types of snow conditions. A smooth, edgeable surface is all I need to have a good time. We all love neck-deep blower, but if that’s the standard, you’ll end up a bigger powder snob than the jaded old head with a bad back.
ETIQUETTE
Unlike surfing, localism in the backcountry is rare. The plus side: you won’t get punched on the skin track or have your tires slashed. The downside: the uninitiated often get away with dumb shit and never learn etiquette. Learning the ways of the mountains is a decades-long journey, not something expedited by ego or reddit forums. Respect the landscape, the locals, and the history. Seek mentors, stay humble, and enjoy the process.
BE PRESENT
The backcountry is a wild, sacred place. Leave your drama at the car and glide into nature. Switch your phone to airplane mode and forget the connected world for a few hours. Craig Kelly said it best: “As a general rule, it’s better to just be living for the moment, because if you plan ahead, you might just not make it that far.”
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