Who doesn’t love snowboarding? The adrenalin rush it brings while gliding through the slope of snow. Aside from the thrill it gets, you can also consider it a body workout. When going snowboarding, communication tools are essential aside from the clothing gear you wear. A mobile phone will be helpful; however, when you go up to the mountains and hills, some areas are not reachable by network signals since most ski resorts are in secluded areas.
Thus, walkie-talkies are an excellent alternative for communication with your team. Bringing a walkie-talkie with you can be your lifeline in case of an emergency.
5 best Walkie-Talkie for Snowboarding
#1 DeWalt DXFRS220
DeWalt DXFRS220 | |
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Range | up to 100,000 sq. ft. |
Power Output | 1 watt |
Frequency Ranges | 462-467 MHz (FRS) |
License needed | no (exclusive for FRS use only) |
Waterproof | yes (IPX4) |
VOX | |
Emergency Alert | |
Auto Squelch | |
LED Flashlight | |
Keypad Lock | |
Weather Channels | |
Call Tones | 1 |
Power Source | Built-in Li-polymer Battery |
Size | 2.39 x 2.36 x 1.19 inches |
Weight | 0.30 lb |
Scope of Delivery |
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One of the essential features of a walkie-talkie should be communicating with your team despite the long distance. DeWalt DXFRS220 signals can range up to 100,000 sq ft; this means checking with your crew in the terrain and slopes of the mountain cannot be hindered.
DeWalt DXFRS220 doesn’t need a license to operate since it is only an FRS or Family Radio Service. However, it has 22 channels and works perfectly with other FRS walkie-talkies. It is waterproof and water-resistant, so you don’t need to worry that it might get wet when boating or fishing.
For uninterrupted communication, a walkie-talkie must have long battery life. DeWalt DXFRS220 has a Li-polymer battery that can last up to 10 hours. After the battery is drained, you can charge it to use it again, and no need to buy an alkaline battery, unlike other walkie-talkies. Its micro-USB charging cable has a Y plus which makes charging two devices possible simultaneously.
With its dimensions of 2.39 inches by 2.36 inches by 1.19 inches, It is not bothersome to bring anywhere with you. It has a clip belt which you can attach anywhere, push the button, and talk; you can use it hands-free!
Main Plus: Portability & Durability Features
DeWalt DXFRS220 has an anti-slip design that prevents falls and slips incidents. It also has a shock resistance that can withstand up to a 2-meter fall—making it perfect for outdoor adventures and construction site use.
#2 Midland GXT1000VP4
Midland GXT1000VP4 | |
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Range | 36 miles |
Power Output | 5 watts |
Frequency Ranges | 462-467 MHz (FRS/GMRS) |
License needed | yes, if GMRS channels will be used (FCC license) |
Waterproof | yes (JIS4) |
VOX | |
Emergency Alert | |
Auto Squelch | |
LED Flashlight | |
Keypad Lock | |
Weather Channels | 10 NOAA weather channels |
Call Tones | 5 |
Power Source | NiMH rechargeable battery or 4 AA Alkaline batteries |
Size | 7.9 x 2.5 x 1.5 inches |
Weight | 0.30 lb |
Scope of Delivery |
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One of the best features of Midland GXT1000VP4 is excellent and clear audio compared to other walkie-talkies in the market. You don’t have to worry about its loud sound bothering other people with its whisper function that lets you speak softly using the handset. You can receive incoming call alerts minus the typical loud call tone with its vibrate mode.
With its EVOX or Easy Voice feature, you don’t need to handhold the device and speak through it, clip it somewhere near your mouth, press the button, and talk. Midland GXT1000VP4 has a group call attribute wherein you can create a group with the other walkie-talkie user and speak to them directly.
With a JIS-14 or Japan Industrial Standards rating, Midland GXT1000VP4 is splash-proof, which can still work even when it is splashed with water. Keep in mind that submerging it in water might adversely affect the unit.
Midland GXT1000VP4 uses rechargeable or AA batteries which can last for 23 hours. NiMH rechargeable batteries are included in the package and can last for 9 hours in operation. The range for Midland GXT1000VP4 can reach up to 36 miles in good weather conditions and without any obstruction.
Main Plus: SOS Siren
Apart from its 22 channels, it has an extra 28 channels with 142 privacy codes that give you an option to block other conversations from the same range. Has NOAA Weather Alert Radio Weatherscan notifies you when it is unsafe to go snowboarding. It features an SOS Siren that signals your companion when you are in a distressing situation.
#3 Motorola T800
Motorola T800 | |
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Range | 35 miles |
Power Output | 0.5-2 watts |
Frequency Ranges | 462-467 MHz (FRS/GMRS) |
License needed | yes, if GMRS channels will be used (FCC license) |
Waterproof | yes (IPX4) |
VOX | |
Emergency Alert | |
Auto Squelch | |
LED Flashlight | |
Keypad Lock | |
Weather Channels | 11 NOAA weather channels |
Call Tones | 20 |
Power Source | NiMH rechargeable batterie or 3 AA Alkaline batteries |
Size | 7.52" x 2.2" x 1.28" / 19.05 x 5.56 x 3.25 cm |
Weight | 0.47 lbs / 213 g (with batteries) |
Scope of Delivery |
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This brand takes pride in its stylish and sleek design. This device measures 7 inches from the antenna to the bottom part of the body and weighs only 4 pounds, making it easy to bring even when you are out in the wilds. It has a belly clip and loop that lets you attach to your arm or clothes and talk without the need to hold the device.
It is compatible with FRS and GMRS radios; it is easy to pair this radio to other radios of the same type. Motorola T800 receives alerts of possible weather disturbance and emergency alerts. You can also connect this device to your smartphone, receive and send messages, navigate your location through a map and change the control settings.
With an IPX4 rating, Motorola T800 is waterproof and can withstand rain and snow without worrying about it getting damaged. Its package includes a pair of NiMH rechargeable batteries and a micro-USB cable adapter as its power source that can last up to 14 hours. It also includes 3 AA alkaline batteries as an alternative if charging the batteries is not viable. With disposable batteries, you can have up to 25 hours of battery life.
Its range can reach up to 35 miles for mountains and valleys and up to 6 miles for open water and nearby fields. Motorola T800 operates in a frequency range of 462 MHz to 467 MHz, giving you clear coverage for both indoors and outdoors.
Main Plus: Built-in flashlight
Has a built-in flashlight to light the way during night activities or power outages. It provides real-time weather alerts from its 11 weather channels. It can float in water and be submerged for up to 1 meter.
#4 Retevis RT27
Retevis RT27 | |
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Range | 1+ miles |
Power Output | 0.5-2 Watts |
Frequency Ranges | 462-467 MHz (FRS) |
License needed | no (exclusive for FRS use only) |
Waterproof | |
VOX | |
Emergency Alert | |
Auto Squelch | |
LED Flashlight | |
Keypad Lock | |
Weather Channels | |
Call Tones | 1 |
Power Source | Rechargeable Li-ion Battery (1100mAh) |
Size | 4.13 x 2.32 x 1.34 inches |
Weight | 0.41 lb |
Scope of Delivery |
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This radio has an adjustable Squelch level feature that filters noise in noisy surroundings. It produces crisp and clear sound and blocks noises from high-intensity signals. It also has a VOX feature that lets you use the device hands-free.
Retevis RT27 is an FRS frequency band and does not need a license to operate. Depending on the terrain and user settings, Retevis RT27 works better in open fields. It has a range of 0.5 – 1+ miles with a 2-watts output based on the manufacturer’s information.
It uses 2 Lithium-ion batteries with a 1100mAh capacity that can last for 7-11 hours. Retevis RT27 has a charging dock and USB charging to recharge its batteries. It has an outstanding sealed design that can keep up with dust, light rain, and a few splashes.
The lower knob located at the top of the device, which you have to turn clockwise, serves as the device’s power on and volume adjuster. The higher knob, right after the antenna, is the channel selector. You can turn clockwise to locate a higher channel and counterclockwise for channel number down.
You have to press the PTT key located at the left side of the device to transmit a call. Keep the mouth 3-4 cm in the distance with the mic as instructed.
Main Plus: Drop-in charger base, USB charging
Enclosed with a thick plastic covering, the design of this device is to resist shocks and vibration. Also, another purpose of the covering is to keep the device safe from dust and water splash. Due to its exquisite design, and excellent internal parts, this radio is meant to have a long service life.
#5 Cobra ACT220
Cobra ACT220B | |
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Range | 12 miles |
Power Output | 0.5-2 Watts |
Frequency Ranges | 462-467 MHz (FRS/GMRS) |
License needed | yes, if GMRS channels will be used (FCC license) |
Waterproof | yes (IPX4) |
VOX | |
Emergency Alert | |
Auto Squelch | |
LED Flashlight | |
Keypad Lock | |
Weather Channels | |
Call Tones | 1 |
Power Source | Lithium Polymer Batteries |
Size | 2.39 x 2.36 x 1.22 inches |
Weight | 0.58 lb |
Scope of Delivery |
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With a dimension of 1.22×2.36×2.39 inches, this compact two-way radio device is perfect for skiers with its non-antenna handy design. With a range of up to 12 miles, which is more significant than other walkie-talkies in the market, Cobra ACT220B can be used even with a broader distance.
With a rating of IPX4, this device is waterproof and can still work perfectly even in snow and hailstorm. Due to its handy and compact design, plus the built-in turnable clip belt can be attached comfortably in any gear and used hands-free. It has an excellent battery life that can last up to 10 hours of continuous use with its built-in Lithium polymer battery.
You can conveniently charge this device anywhere using its micro-USB cable. This device has a weather alert feature that lets you know when there is an upcoming weather disturbance and is unsafe to snowboard. It has 22 channels to communicate with other FRS/GMRS walkie-talkie users.
Like other brands, Cobra ACT220B also has a VOX function wherein you can speak to the device hands-free. It has a beep tone that indicates the transmission from the other end is finished and signals the person from the other end to talk.
Main Plus: Wearable
Due to its Chat Tag wearable design, it is considered the smallest wearable two-way radio in the market. Inside this tiny device are the microphone, speaker, and antenna built-in without compromising the voice clarity.Â
How to choose the best Walkie Talkie for Snowboarding
When you go snowboarding, having a tool for communication is a must. It helps you be in constant contact with your companion despite the distance. Two-way radios are advantageous, especially for areas with network signals. Walkie-talkies allow people to be in touch with other people through radio waves.
Below are the features that a user should look for when buying a walkie-talkie for industrial, commercial, or family use.
Frequency
It is essential to look for a two-way radio with a higher frequency, especially when you go snowboarding. Since the area is vast and mobile signals are unreliable, having a radio that can penetrate through the terrain and slope of the hill or mountain is beneficial.
Hands-free
Having a radio that does not need to be handheld is convenient for snowboarding. This means you can have uninterrupted communication with your team without the need to stop somewhere, hold the radio and speak to it. With hands-free devices, you can use both hands to glide while keeping in touch with your companion.
Weight and Size
It is essential to have a handy and lightweight two-way radio for outdoor activities. When a radio is heavy and oversized, it can be a bit bothersome to carry, and the user might worry about dropping it somewhere because of its weight. Compact walkie-talkies are convenient to use since you have to clip it somewhere in your shoulder, vest, clothes, or anywhere in your body, and you’re ready to go!
Belt Clips
Belt clips allow users to use the radio with free hands. Using this accessory helps improve the radio’s functionality and enables the user to get rid of holding the walkie-talkie frequently to communicate.
Durability
Since walkie-talkies are used primarily for outdoor activities, it has to be strong enough to withstand a fall and endure outside forces like rain or water splashes, snowfall, and dirt.
Sound Quality
Quality of sound is essential in a two-way radio to hear and speak to your companion clearly and clearly, especially if one of your team members is in distress and needs rescue.
Battery Life & Rechargeable Batteries
One of the best traits to look for in a walkie-talkie is battery life. It can be annoying and unsafe to wander in the wilderness without communicating with others. Aim for a radio with longer battery life that stay working even in continuous use.
These are more convenient and cheaper than using AA alkaline batteries, wherein you have to purchase them when it gets drained. Apart from being economical, it is also environmental since using rechargeable batteries eliminates the frequent use of disposable batteries.
Flashlight
Having a built-in flashlight in walkie-talkies is convenient, especially when you have activities during the night. You don’t have to use the other hand to hold a flashlight since you have it in one device simultaneously.
Weather Alert
This is an excellent feature in two-way radios because it notifies the weather. It lets the user know when a weather disturbance is approaching and unsafe to go snowboarding.
Why is a Walkie-Talkie useful for Snowboarding?
Communication is essential when you and your companion go snowboarding. With the vast area of a hill or mountain, keeping in touch might be complicated, especially when gliding down the slopes and downhill. It might bring you too far from your team, and mobile phones might have difficulty in reception, that is why a two-way radio can be helpful to stay in touch with your team and find them in case they get lost in the wilderness.
Avoid getting stranded somewhere in the middle of an unknown location while enjoying the scenery and experiencing the adventure brought by snowboarding by using walkie-talkies that send GPS locations so your team can quickly locate each other, especially in distressed situations.
The lightweight feature makes it handy and comfortable to bring anywhere, including extreme outdoor activities like snowboarding. Walkie-talkies with long-range and quality audio are ideal for snowboarding mainly because most snowboarding locations are wide and in secluded areas.
Two-way radios are also helpful when you need to meet each other somewhere because it’s time for a meal or your team instigated a race. Having a radio is also advantageous when you are new to snowboarding. Your coach can guide you on glides and maneuver on slopes through the radio.
Conclusion – The 5 best Walkie Talkies for Snowboarding
Give the best value for your money by choosing an affordable walkie-talkie with the major features necessary for a two-way radio. It is also essential to look for a radio with long-lasting battery life so you would not get a dead battery in the middle of the hill and be unable to reach out to your companions.
Having a characteristic of long-range and higher frequency devices is also advantageous for snowboarders to get in touch with their team even with a wider distance. Go for an ideal unit for extreme outdoor sports and withstand a fall, water splashes, and dust particles. Choose the radio that best suits your outdoor needs and lifestyle.
