Backcountry Gear - Ross Kennedy

Your first gear list to get started

Ross Kennedy's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu

Products in this list

Freeraider 15 EVO Binding by ATK Bindings — There's a reason almost every guide I meet at work, on a course, or recreating has a set of ATK bindings. The all metal construction, consistent release value, and light weight have made these bindings the staple in which I compare all other bindings too. Every time I try to save and buy something other than these bindings, I fully regret it. If you are getting into touring, you will either buy these bindings now, or go through a half dozen of other options before landing on these.
Barryvox S2 by Mammut — At every professional grade avalanche program I have been a part of when the team does a beacon check Barryvox's are 90% of what is pulled out. This is the industry standard for beacons and provides a very easy to use screen and system. The S2 Provides additional features for more technologically inclined users. If this is not needed save your funds and buy the Barryvox 2 instead.
Probe 320 speed lock by Mammut — Mammut's Speed Lock Probes have served me well since starting ski touring. I recommend a 300cm+ probe so that it is effective in all snowpacks.
LiTRIC Freeride 28L Airbag Avypack Backpack by Ortovox — I have brought Litric Airbags throughout the US and internationally and it has served me incredibly well. Its relatively lightweight for an airbag, has an easily accessible Avy pocket, and the airbag system is simple and easy to operate. This is the primary system I use for my cat skiing service and I cannot recommend it enough.
Cirque 25 Backpack by Black Diamond — Having owned the previous version of this bag, the cirque 25 holds a very special place in my heart. It is my go to bag for alpine climbing, spring backcountry skiing, and short ski mountaineering objectives. The shoulder pockets hold enough for a soft flask, allowing you to keep moving through the mountains without having to slow down to fuel up.
Headwall 55 by Hyperlite Mountain Gear — This is the Mary Poppins Bag of the avalanche bag world. 55L is an understatement, and the large avy pocket can swallow just about whatever doesn't fit in the main bag. Hyperlite makes fantastic gear, and this is no exception. I expect this to be a legacy piece in my collection and to continue to beat it up for years to come.
Barryvox 2 Tour 280 Package by Mammut — Easy to buy all 3 if you want to keep it simple
Freetour 2.0 Pivot 15 by CAST Touring — If you're going to get a hybrid binding, might as well make sure it is bombproof. While one of the heaviest systems on the market, the CAST is the only hybrid system I feel comfortable pushing myself while wearing.

Backcountry Gear - Ross Kennedy

Your first gear list to get started

Ross Kennedy's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu

Products in this list

Freeraider 15 EVO Binding by ATK Bindings — There's a reason almost every guide I meet at work, on a course, or recreating has a set of ATK bindings. The all metal construction, consistent release value, and light weight have made these bindings the staple in which I compare all other bindings too. Every time I try to save and buy something other than these bindings, I fully regret it. If you are getting into touring, you will either buy these bindings now, or go through a half dozen of other options before landing on these.
Barryvox S2 by Mammut — At every professional grade avalanche program I have been a part of when the team does a beacon check Barryvox's are 90% of what is pulled out. This is the industry standard for beacons and provides a very easy to use screen and system. The S2 Provides additional features for more technologically inclined users. If this is not needed save your funds and buy the Barryvox 2 instead.
Probe 320 speed lock by Mammut — Mammut's Speed Lock Probes have served me well since starting ski touring. I recommend a 300cm+ probe so that it is effective in all snowpacks.
LiTRIC Freeride 28L Airbag Avypack Backpack by Ortovox — I have brought Litric Airbags throughout the US and internationally and it has served me incredibly well. Its relatively lightweight for an airbag, has an easily accessible Avy pocket, and the airbag system is simple and easy to operate. This is the primary system I use for my cat skiing service and I cannot recommend it enough.
Cirque 25 Backpack by Black Diamond — Having owned the previous version of this bag, the cirque 25 holds a very special place in my heart. It is my go to bag for alpine climbing, spring backcountry skiing, and short ski mountaineering objectives. The shoulder pockets hold enough for a soft flask, allowing you to keep moving through the mountains without having to slow down to fuel up.
Headwall 55 by Hyperlite Mountain Gear — This is the Mary Poppins Bag of the avalanche bag world. 55L is an understatement, and the large avy pocket can swallow just about whatever doesn't fit in the main bag. Hyperlite makes fantastic gear, and this is no exception. I expect this to be a legacy piece in my collection and to continue to beat it up for years to come.
Barryvox 2 Tour 280 Package by Mammut — Easy to buy all 3 if you want to keep it simple
Freetour 2.0 Pivot 15 by CAST Touring — If you're going to get a hybrid binding, might as well make sure it is bombproof. While one of the heaviest systems on the market, the CAST is the only hybrid system I feel comfortable pushing myself while wearing.