Are you wearing a helmet in the backcountry?

Despite your excuses about comfort, weight, and freedom of personal choice, I am sure your mom would want you to wear a helmet every time you go sliding on snow. Skiing/Snowboarding is an inherently dangerous pastime so why not protect yourself and those around you by wearing a helmet?

Back in March, Xavier De Le Rue claimed that a helmet saved his life after smashing his head into some rocks while riding "mellow powder". After blacking out, Doctor's said he could have died without the head protection.

More recently Mark McMorris sustained severe internal injuries, as well as broken ribs and jaw in the Whistler backcountry and underwent two surgeries to stabilize his injuries. While we may not be "sending it" like the pros shooting video segments for next year's winter stoke edits, it is possible to get bucked or bumped off your line and take a tumble.

Do yourself, your friends and family a favour and put on a helmet. Afterall, why shouldn't you protect your biggest investment?

FreeSkier Top 12 Ski Helmets of 2017