Snow Study Tools
Snow study tools are specialised instruments used by skiers, snowboarders, avalanche professionals, and researchers to analyse snowpack conditions in order to assess avalanche risk, understand snow science, and make safer decisions in the backcountry.
Common Snow Study Tools & Their Functions
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Snow Saw | Cuts snow columns for stability tests and shelter building. |
| Snow Shovel | Digs snow pits, rescues buried victims, shapes test columns. |
| Avalanche Probe | Measures snow depth and locates buried victims or layers. |
| Snow Crystal Card | Helps identify and measure snow grain types and size using a scale grid. |
| Magnifying Loupe | Magnifies snow crystals (usually 8x–10x) to examine their structure. |
| Thermometer | Measures temperature at various snowpack layers—crucial for understanding metamorphism. |
| Ruler or Depth Probe | Measures snow layer thickness and total snow depth. |
| Inclinometer | Measures slope angle—avalanches are most likely on slopes of 30–45°. |
| Compass | Determines slope aspect (direction)—important because sun and wind affect snow stability. |
| Field Book or Snow Study App | For recording observations, test results, and weather data. |
| Density Gauge or Snow Sampler | Measures snow density and water content in the snowpack. |
Used For:
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Digging snow pits and analyzing snow layers
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Performing stability tests (e.g., compression test, extended column test)
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Tracking weather and snowpack changes over time
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Supporting avalanche forecasting
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Educating in avalanche safety courses
Important Note:
Snow study tools are only effective when used by someone with proper avalanche safety training. Tools help gather data, but interpretation and decision-making are critical to staying safe in avalanche terrain.
In short, snow study tools help you understand the structure, stability, and behavior of snow—vital for making informed decisions in the mountains.
