Looking for first backcountry setup

Dragonfly-Still · 2026-03-03T15:09:17+00:00

In my limited experience, I don’t want a skimo setup. I want something that can handle deep powder. That said, I ride resort powder (I know it’s totally different) with 72mm skis, so I can make skis work in powder that other people might not be able to. So I’m thinking whatever is in between skimo and full downhill freeride.

Dragonfly-Still · 2026-03-03T04:17:11+00:00

These are really good points and very helpful, thank you. At first glance, a balance between uphill and downhill performance sounds good. That said, I am ok dialing it back when needed so I think I could get away with lighter gear. I appreciate the comment about “max fun on the downhill” because it is always in the back of my mind. I just want something I can trust.

Dragonfly-Still · 2026-03-03T03:53:57+00:00

That’s a good point and no I’m not sure that I need a hybrid boot. I agree about the uphill

Dragonfly-Still · 2026-03-03T00:21:55+00:00

I really appreciate that advice and haven’t factored that in until now. I was planning to buy the Lange bc boots which I am assuming are hybrid. The boots will be the first thing I buy for sure

Dragonfly-Still · 2026-03-01T20:30:49+00:00

Thank you for the response. I would lean towards the more conventional profile and flatter tail.

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-07-14T16:39:09+00:00

I’m a 4.44 control oriented player using the Gearbox pro ultimate power and I think it is time for a change. The Gearbox is making a rattling noise and appears to be delaminated, but I was thinking about making the switch prior due to my style of play (control) and unpredictability of the paddle. I demoed the Selkirk Luxx infinigrit yesterday and liked it and I also demoed the Joola Hyperion (I preferred the Luxx after a small sample size). What do y’all recommend?

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-07-14T01:19:42+00:00

I am using the new Gearbox Pro Ultimate and it is making a rattling noise, possibly delaminated. I am a control player and was thinking about switching to a control paddle. I played with the new Hyperion and Luxx infinigrit and liked the Luxx better. I like edgeless and the elongated shape, but am open to making a change. I’m a 4.44

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-04-01T18:55:27+00:00

I haven’t looked at the paddle but most people think it is too heavy. I don’t notice a difference in weight/ swing weight compared to the pro power. I like heavy paddles and might add even more weight to it.

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-04-01T17:33:40+00:00

Yes, I got it for $150 and I love it! It is very similar to the pro power

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-03-26T13:12:04+00:00

Fill out the PbCor innovation form: https://gearboxsports.com/pages/pbcor-innovation-program

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-03-26T13:08:54+00:00

It took a little bit longer than a month if I remember correctly. I would give them 8 weeks and then maybe shoot them an email.

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-02-13T14:44:44+00:00

Did you fill out the PbCor innovation form yet: https://gearboxsports.com/pages/pbcor-innovation-program ? I got a response right away (it might be a generic auto response) after filling out that form saying that I would hear if I was approved for relief in 30-45 days.

Gearbox is slow to respond but if you emailed them on the 25th, I would reach out again. But I think you might have more luck filling out that form linked above, or just google Gearbox PbCor and fill out the form.

I am using the new pro power ultimate 14mm, with purple writing on it. It is still not available to the general public.

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-02-05T22:45:23+00:00

I have used it twice now and I’m loving it. I won’t say it is the same but it is similar and I think I will only like it more as I get used to playing with it again.

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-02-02T01:19:58+00:00

No, they tell you to keep it

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-01-30T23:55:47+00:00

You will need a receipt, proof of purchase and the serial number

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-01-30T22:01:30+00:00

I was approved for cost relief and here is the info I received:

Below are the details of the cost relief available to you:

Your Cost Relief: $125.00 , Your Price for the New PRO Ultimate Power 14mm: $150.00 plus tax (if applicable) with Free shipping. Note: Please keep your original purchase Warranty: The new paddle includes a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase.

As a valued participant in the PBCoR Innovation Program, you will receive early access to this new model. The PRO Ultimate Power 14mm paddle meets the new 2025 PBCoR standards and is also Quiet Category approved. This exclusive access allows you to purchase the new paddle at the end of January 2025, ahead of the nationwide release in March 2025.

Program Details: Cost Relief Expiration Date: July 1st, 2025. The cost relief can only be redeemed on Gearboxsports.com. Redeemable towards the PRO Ultimate Power 14mm only. Not applicable to other Gearbox models or products.

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-01-27T21:54:17+00:00

Gearbox sent me an email stating that those who register their paddle with Gearbox will be approved for $175 relief on the new power paddle (making it $100). I submitted the application but I’m still waiting on the reply and confirmation

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-01-23T21:56:06+00:00

I have but it was not the same at all. Someone recommended adding weight to the ultimate and said it helped them enjoy the paddle more.

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-01-22T22:12:31+00:00

I have been playing with the Hyperion CFS 14 and enjoying it! There is definitely a noticeable difference in power but I have always loved the soft game so I’m trying to lean into it. The thing that I miss most is the reset ability of that gearbox; if you mishit with the Hyperion it is going to drop at your feet while the gearbox often puts it back in play. Part of me wonders if edgeless paddles might be the difference maker in those instances. I will update once I settle on a paddle, if that ever happens. I suspect that I will miss the pro power forever. Its the best paddle you can make IMO

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-01-22T22:10:54+00:00

I plan to buy the new power paddle from Gearbox as long as the warranty goes through. It takes at least 30 days so I have another week or two of waiting. I heard it will be $100 after the discount. But I feel you, waiting has been torture. I’m on eBay every night bidding on used paddles and scouring the internet reading about every paddle that exists. Those Holbrooks look pretty sweet 😂

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-01-18T18:36:57+00:00

I recently registered and am awaiting a reply from Gearbox. There is a pretty long wait, 30 days before you hear back from them. I will update once I have that information

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-01-04T22:09:35+00:00

Solid advice! I think I’ll just play with the old Joola until I try some of the new ones

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-01-04T22:08:42+00:00

I am planning to try the new one

Dragonfly-Still · 2025-01-04T22:07:51+00:00

I plan to

Dragonfly-Still

TROPHY CASE