A Transceiver is a useless rescue device without a shovel! Don't be selfish and not carry one. They are light, pack down small and are relatively cheap.

In the Backcountry a shovel has many uses: Digging snow caves and test pits, shaping kickers and half pipes and they can add a layer of back protection to your rucksack. You can also use one to dig out your car. Anyone who thinks they can dig with their hands or their board is talking rubbish, you need a shovel.

We don't stock any plastic / lexan bladed shovels as we feel that in an avalanche situation they do not have the strength or digging performance to be a real safety tool. These days metal shovels are more durable than plastic and there is no longer a weight penalty for aluminium bladed shovels.