What I Took with Me Going on the Ultimate Cat Snowboarding Trip

Cat Snowboarding in Canada. Magic.  

Every snowboarder, surfer, or skater has one or two bucket-list trips — the kind you’d sell a kidney or pick up a second job to make happen. 

For me, the two big ones were heli boarding and cat boarding. Somehow, I managed to tick both off within 18 months, with a pretty insane cast of characters along the way. 

For the cat boarding trip, I got the chance to ride with Sage Kotsenburg, Db Ambassador, Olympic gold medalist, two-time Rider of the Year, and winner of the Supernatural backcountry event. We spent four days in the Canadian backcountry at Baldface Lodge — a place straight out of a snowboarder’s dream. 

The Travel Setup. 

You heli in from Nelson, BC, and when you arrive, it’s pure magic: untouched powder stretching as far as the eye can see. But here’s the thing — a Baldface trip is unlike any other, and your packing setup has to be spot-on. 

The Heli Ride In. 

You fly up by helicopter, with gear loaded in baskets outside — so forget oversized luggage. Duffels are king. I brought the Db Split Duffel Pro 70L, which fit perfectly (like a Lego block). I also carried a Db Snowroller for my boards, but since it rolls up, I could stash it neatly once we landed—ideal for Jeff Pensiero and the Baldface crew. 

Riding Laps in the Cat. 

Each day you’re logging 10–12 runs in a snowcat. Inside, it’s a mix of sweaty gear, high stoke, maybe a sip from a flask… and a whole lot of moisture. Honestly, sometimes being outside all day feels easier — you get used to the cold. 
In the cat, I always carried: 

 

  • A dry bag for phone, snacks, and sunglasses 

  • A Db packing cube with spare goggles, gloves, neck gaiters, and a fresh base layer (because a soaked first layer by lunch is no joke) 

What I Packed for Cat Boarding. 

Here’s the gear list that got me through: 

  • Boards: Two powder boards — a Burton Fish (perfect for tight trees) and a Korua Dart (a beast for open faces). I also borrowed an Asmo powsurfer for extra fun. 

  • Snowboard gear: Boots, helmet, bib pants (to keep snow out of your backside), and two jackets. 

  • Layers: A 550-fill down mid-layer for extra-cold days. 

  • Eyewear & gloves: 4 pairs of goggles (yes, you’ll use them all — sweat, ragdolls, scratches) and 3 pairs of gloves. 

  • Avalanche safety gear (non-negotiable): Beacon (transceiver), collapsible shovel, probe, and snowshoes (for hikes between runs or in case of an

Insider Tips for Heli & Cat Snowboarding. 

  1. Avalanche gear is essential. Training is serious, and your kit must be complete. 

  1. Bring multiples. Goggles, gloves, and neck gaiters—keep them dry or suffer later. 

  1. Travel smart. Show up with duffels and collapsible bags (like the Db Split Duffel and Snowroller). Oversized bags = rookie mistake. 

  1. Go easy at the bar. Tomorrow’s powder is always worth more than tonight’s party. 

Final Thoughts. 

Whether you’re heli boarding into untouched powder or riding laps in a cat, the ultimate snow trip is about preparation. Pack smart, travel light, and bring the right gear—because when you’re standing on top of a pristine Baldface line, you’ll want nothing between you and pure snowboard bliss. 

And trust me: a Db Duffel and Snowroller will make you look like you’ve done this before—even if it’s your first time.