Powder Pads

Conquer backcountry terrain effortlessly with Powder Pads: the ultimate eco-friendly solution for challenging boot packing in deep snow.

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Problem

Existing backcountry skiing equipment falls short in providing an efficient solution for boot packing in deep snow, lacking the necessary traction, surface area, biomechanical alignment, durability, and lightweight design for optimal performance and hindering outdoor enthusiasts from effectively navigating challenging terrain.

It all started with…

  • Angle of Attack: A steeper angle could allow for deeper snow penetration, improving traction.

  • Material: Exploring alternative materials could offer cost savings.

  • Side Profile: Refining the side shape could minimize snagging on obstacles.

The Cramplifier

Key Areas

Improving the Auftriib Cramplifier

Prototyping

  • Finessing the shape, reinforcement, sizing, and increasing angle of attack of the front prong

  • Working through tolerances

  • Ensuring crampons can still fit through the slot

Making Process

3D Model a Positive Mold For 3D Printing

Laser Cut Flat 2D Prototypes Testing Fitment

Surface Prep

Vacuum Bagging

Features and Benefits

  • Low flex, high surface area design: Provides superior traction and stability for efficient boot packing in deep snow.

  • Front prongs: Engineered to dig deeper into the snow compared to competitors, ensuring enhanced grip and traction.

  • Mountain pattern: Adds lateral rigidity to the pad, enhancing stability during ascent.

  • Durable construction: Crafted from a blend of twill flax fiber, unidirectional carbon fiber, and resilient twill carbon fiber for long-lasting performance.

  • Lightweight design: Enables easy portability and reduces fatigue during extended backcountry excursions.

  • Packability: Easily fits into any pack with a footprint the same size as an avalanche shovel head

  • Effortless trail-breaking: Empowers outdoor enthusiasts to conquer challenging terrain with ease and confidence.

Materials

  • Twill flax fiber: Provides natural strength and resilience for durability

  • Unidirectional carbon fiber: Offers lightweight stiffness for enhanced performance

  • Resilient twill carbon fiber: Ensures long-lasting durability in rugged conditions

  • Eco epoxy impregnation: Bonds fibers together while minimizing environmental impact, enhancing overall strength and sustainability

Next Steps

  • Work on the quality of epoxy lamination

  • Create replaceable front prongs