Backcountry Magazine 146 | The 2023 Gear Guide

On the Cover: After growing up in Colorado and spending time in Utah, Drew Petersen needed a change of scenery. “Drew moved to Truckee to put down roots, get a sense of community and enjoy all Tahoe had to offer,” says photographer Ming Poon, who has called the area home for years. Settling down in a new place can be exciting, yet intimidating, so Poon took his new neighbor out in the Sierra Nevada on a deep day as a welcome present. According to Poon, “I think this is the moment his life decisions were reaffirmed.” [Photo] Ming Poon   THE 2023 GEAR GUIDE SKIS, BOOTS & BINDINGS FREE TOURING Whether taking a chairlift bump, firing up the snowmobile or hitting a skintrack, free tourers prioritize an aggressive setup for the descent, no matter the weight. SPORT TOURING Sport tourers are versatile, oscillating between quick gladed laps and huge days on the skintrack, so their gear needs to be up for anything. SPEED TOURING Sub-90-underfoot skis and minimalist boots can be found on 1