A Distribution That Improves Access to Safety Equipment
We are pleased to announce that Highmark avalanche safety products, along with backcountry accessories and tools from Mountain Lab Gear, are now both distributed by Kimpex. This new distribution makes it easier to access essential equipment for off-trail snowmobiling in Quebec and across Canada. For the occasion, our contributors Sébastien and Pierre-Olivier offer a brief overview of several products they regularly use in real-world conditions.
Sébastien Introduces Mountain Lab
For the past two years, I have been an ambassador for Mountain Lab. I use their products in real-world conditions, summer and winter alike. I have tested several Mountain Lab products in the field. I carry four of them on almost every ride. They address real needs, without compromise. They have earned their place in my gear thanks to their practicality.
Kinetic 500 Pro Headlamp: Visibility and Reliability
The first is the Kinetic 500 Pro headlamp. This light is powerful, compact, and extremely durable. It provides a clear beam for late returns. It handles cold and moisture very well. Its construction inspires confidence during nighttime outings. I use it to work on the machine after sunset. It allows me to keep my hands free during interventions. Its battery life and robustness truly make a difference.
Wide Open Throttle Snowmobile Tool Kit: Designed for Snowmobiling
The second is the Wide Open Throttle Snowmobile Tool Kit. This tool kit is designed specifically for snowmobiling. It includes the essentials for quick repairs in the mountains. I can tighten, adjust, and replace parts on the spot. The kit is compact and well organized for quick access. It has saved me several days thanks to quick fixes. I always keep it within reach in my pack. Its selection of tools matches the real needs of snowmobilers.
Backcountry Saw: A Simple and Essential Tool
Third essential: the Backcountry chain saw. This manual saw cuts wood very efficiently. It is perfect for clearing a blocked trail. Its compact format makes it easy to carry in a pack. It can be used quickly, even with gloves. I have used it often to remove fallen branches. It avoids tedious detours in tight terrain. It is a simple, reliable, and indispensable tool in the forest.
GearTrunk Bag: Organization and Efficiency
Finally, I use the GearTrunk Bag to organize my equipment. This bag is robust, stable, and very practical for transport. It keeps tools and accessories well organized and accessible. It withstands cold, moisture, and impacts. It fits easily into a vehicle’s cargo area. I appreciate its capacity and efficient compartmentalization. It helps me stay ready and organized before every departure.
A Field-Driven Philosophy
These products reflect Mountain Lab’s philosophy. The brand designs equipment that is practical, durable, and field-tested. Every detail serves a specific function in real-world conditions. This approach resonates with snowmobilers who ride frequently. It inspires confidence when conditions become demanding. That is why I am proud to represent this brand.
Pierre-Olivier Introduces Highmark
I have been using this avalanche safety equipment for several years now, both in the field and in a training context. As a guide with Adrénaline Hors Piste, these tools are part of my daily routine. I use them to share best practices, supervise groups, or operate myself in avalanche terrain. These are tools I know well, that I have used in real conditions, and that I trust when it comes to my safety and that of my clients in the backcountry.
Highmark Avalanche Packs: Essential Protection
Highmark avalanche packs are part of the equipment we use both during training and on our outings in Gaspésie. It is a product we have integrated into our practices directly into the field, in very real contexts. In the event of an avalanche, deploying the airbag helps increase the chances of staying near the surface. It is an important piece of protective equipment that provides added peace of mind during backcountry outings.
David, head guide and instructor with Adrénaline Hors-Piste during the CSA-1 snowmobile training.
Mammut Equipment: Search and Rescue
When it comes to Mammut equipment, their avalanche transceivers are devices we rely on at all times. Their reliability in both transmit and receive modes makes it possible to efficiently locate a person buried under the snow. Hopefully, we will never have to use them for real outside of training scenarios. Still, having them with us is reassuring.
David demonstrating Mammut avalanche transceivers.
Mammut shovels stand out for their robustness and efficiency. They are part of our basic equipment and are designed for rapid intervention in demanding conditions.
Pierre-Olivier proudly posing in front of his snow bridge.
Finally, Mammut probes are used both to analyze snowpack depth and to intervene in emergencies. They remain an essential search tool and complete the set of safety equipment we use in the field.
Mountain Lab Ski Pull Strap: Easier Recovery
Among the Mountain Lab accessories I regularly use, the ski pull strap holds an important place. It makes freeing a stuck snowmobile much easier, especially in technical terrain or deep snow. Quick to install and easy to use, it prevents unnecessary strain and makes recovery manoeuvres more efficient. It is a simple but extremely practical accessory that makes a real difference in the field.
Teamwork to extract this snowmobile.
Conclusion: A Distribution That Makes Sense
In conclusion, we are very pleased to see this distribution now handled by Kimpex. For us, it is a logical and positive step that makes products we genuinely use in the field more accessible, both in training and during backcountry outings. This increased accessibility is a concrete gain for the entire off-trail community in Quebec and across Canada.
Knowing that this avalanche safety equipment and these backcountry tools are now available through a strong and well-established network gives us confidence going forward. These are proven products, tested in real-world conditions, and we are glad to see that they will reach even more enthusiasts who care about practising their sport responsibly and safely.
