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The more time you spend pursuing a skill, the better you get. So you can bet that an elite skier like 2023 Men’s Freeride World Tour Rider of the Year has spent a lot of time touring backcountry terrain. That experience has helped the athlete become both a champion skier and an expert at layering and packing for long days with variable conditions. He knows that if you’re not worried about being too cold, too warm, or too underprepared for remote exploring, you can focus on the things that really matter: technique, scenery, friends, and fun. From fuel and layers for the expedition to cozy slip-on shoes for post-tour comfort, here are some of the essentials Hitzig takes whenever he heads into the backcountry.

Safety and Navigation

Returning safely should always be priority number one. In addition to the critical avalanche safety equipment that every skier should carry when venturing beyond resort boundaries, Hitzig always packs a headlamp and carries his phone, which he uses to plan routes the night before a tour. The tools and tech are great, but, he emphasizes, “it’s important to behave according to the conditions.” Since many of his backcountry pursuits start at dawn and end at dusk, Hitzig is always sure to double-check his headlamp battery before setting out on his route: “Unexpected things happen in the backcountry—you don’t want to be left in the dark.” And no matter the intensity of your objective, you should always inform someone about your plans.

Skin and Eye Protection

Even on bluebird days, expect exposure to the cold and wind—there’s not much shelter from the elements above tree line. That’s why you need to go prepared with UV protection, goggles, and a neck gaiter to pull over your nose and mouth. Hitzig always protects exposed skin with sunscreen and uses a face covering. “It takes time to find the right gaiter, but this is the safest and easiest way to protect your skin,” he says. “I also protect my eyes with good ski goggles and rarely take them off.”

Hydration and Fuel

Your body needs fuel and hydration to perform in the backcountry. Skinning up steep terrain and being out in the cold is physically demanding, plus it requires a lot of calories and carbohydrates. That’s why Hitzig always packs a bottle of water and an energy drink. For food, he keeps it simple with something he enjoys like a sandwich and a sweet treat. And it’s not enough to pack water—make sure you’re storing it in an insulated bottle. You don’t want to get caught in the mountains with a solid ice block and no water to drink.

Essential Layers

Base Layer: Xperior Merino 200

Comfort in the backcountry starts with your base layer. That’s why Hitzig puts his trust in the Xperior Merino 200, made with high-quality 100 percent merino wool. Merino is nature’s magic fabric, providing insulation while naturally wicking away moisture. This helps regulate your core body temperature during transitions and strenuous activity. Plus, merino naturally resists odor buildup and is soft on skin. “The Xperior Merino 200 is very light, it keeps me super warm, and it’s comfortable,” Hitzig says. “If it gets too hot in the sun, you don’t start sweating immediately, which is what I really like about this long-sleeve.” If you thought this base layer couldn’t get any better, it’s also made with renewable materials in an effort to help end plastic waste.

Midlayer: Xperior PrimaLoft Loose Fill Jacket 

When the temperatures drop and the wind picks up, a lightweight insulated jacket becomes an essential for warmth (and safety). “The is the perfect second layer for everyday adventures and backcountry tours,” Hitzig says. “If you need to shed a layer, this jacket packs up nice and small into its own pocket for easy storage.” Even if a light rain or wintry mix picks up, the jacket has a water-repellent outer layer for uncompromised warmth in damp conditions, making it perfect for pursuits deep in the backcountry. A midlayer like this is a workhorse, getting pulled on and off countless times, so it’s made with durable 100 percent recycled nylon fabric designed to hold up in extreme elements.

Shell: Techrock C-Knit Jacket

Whether bombing a descent or skinning in a storm, Hitzig stays dry and warm in the . This reliable three-layer Gore-Tex shell does what it should, promising protection and comfort in the white room—where the jacket’s removable inner powder skirt becomes essential. Working hard in wet conditions? Pit vents and waterproof-breathable Gore-Tex C-Knit fabric help keep you moisture-free inside and out. “This jacket is tough,” Hitzig says. “After a long season with long days on the mountain, it shows hardly any signs of wear and tear, and the Gore-Tex ePE still keeps the water out.” And like all the layers in Hitzig’s backcountry kit, his outer layer, made from 100 percent recycled nylon, makes no sacrifices in durability. This shell will work with you on every turn as you make your way back to civilization.

Après-Ski Comfort

Beacon off, car defrosting, warm drink in hand: It’s time for a footwear swap and an expedition recap with the crew. The Winter Slip-On Cold.Rdy is a sweet reward for the day’s efforts. Trading ski boots for comfy après shoes is something every backcountry skier looks forward to, including Hitzig. This shoe goes a couple levels better than most. It features ultragrippy tread for traveling wintry parking lots or walkways. And the cherry on top is the integrated heel step-down, so you can go from shoe to mule for max comfort and convenience at the end of every ski day.

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