IF THE SNOW is falling and you’re huddled up next to a fire, you’re missing out on all the fun. I admit, I am writing this post because I failed my boys by not being ready for snow in two simple ways: I didn’t have a sled or good gloves. Clearly, a man needs both options, both for himself and for his kids. Prepare yourself for the next snow fall with these cool tools and gear.
K2 Rescue Shovel Plus Ice Axe – The K2 Shovel Plus Ice Axe is a backcountry combination tool that can be used as a shovel, ice axe, a hoe, a snow anchor, and most importantly a “rescue” toboggan. I could have used the rescue toboggan on the perfect sledding hill in front of my house when I found myself with a lot of snow, two boys, and no sleds.
If you’re not willing to drop $140 on pro-grade gear for backyard slopes (or automotive emergencies), then these alternatives will work as backcountry shovels as well as makeshift sleds at home (not to mention being good to toss in the car for winter travel).
Back country Access Bomber B2 Shovel Avalanche 0000 Extendable – This is not big enough to work as a toboggan for me, but would work for ages 3-8, depending on kid size. In all fairness it was built for backcountry work.
Black Diamond Deploy 3 Ski Shovel – Best for ease of deployment.
After borrowing a couple of sleds left out by other kids, my boys and I went night sledding. I didn’t have quality gloves for my youngest, just basic five finger gloves. Unfortunately, me reminiscing about wearing socks on my hands for gloves when I was kid didn’t warm his hands. Just so you know, two pair of socks equals about 1 hour of semi-warmth if you don’t have gloves.
The North Face Montana Mitt – Mittens are warmer than gloves but that is where the benefits end. These mittens have a pocket situated in the elastic cuffs for chemical hand warmers. Perfect if you can get them on the kids.
HEAD Digital Sport Running Gloves with Sensatec Touch Screen Compatible – These are best when you’re focused on watching and recording instead of playing.
Black Diamond Guide Gloves Natural Large – Good all around gloves. I found them to be adequate for shooting but not great.
Of Course, Can’t Forget Dedicated Sleds
Stiga King Snow Racer – Stiga for sitting and standing while riding down the hill.
Fat Tire Snow Tube – You want a tube with a tow rope for ease of tow, including behind ATVs. I also like tubes because they deflate for storage.
