The Mountain Institute
Snow science kit
This is intended to be used as a reference and recommendation for various items. Most all-in-one kits have a bunch of cheap stuff them.
Snow crystal card
Plastic vs Metal… metal may melt snow crystals faster when in the sun or on warm days.
a clear blue snow crystal card may also make for better pictures of your snow grains
Magnifiers & Loupes
There are some really cheap magnifiers and loupes out there. Don’t rush to buy one and if you do, go for the quality.
Thermometer
Digital or analog?
There are pros and cons to each. If you go digital, it may be easier and faster to read. When using two, make sure they are calibrated to each other.
Brooks Range Digital Thermometer
Notebook
There are a lot of books provided by courses. These are great for initial instruction and learning. Most will convert over to a simple rite in the rain notebook to write things how they want.
Folding ruler
White rulers match the white snow you are working in…just saying
- Orange WIHA 2m Folding Ruler
- white rulers get lost in the snow!
Rutschblock cord
Metal cords will wreck your avalanche probe
Most pre-made cords are expensive
10ft of 2mm or 3mm cord from a local gear shop or online will save you money.
Get a bright color so you don’t lose it in your snowpit!
