Popular in the 70's?

Quote:

Years ago when I was doing more backcountry skiing in areas with some aval danger I used an avalanche cord (50 feet of red 1/2" nylon cord) tied to my belt dragging behind me when crossing areas of risk. I never read anything about their value then and haven't seen nor heard about their use since. Does anyone know if they offer much value? I can't imagine that the boarders and others are all out their buying $300 transceivers. Short of a transceiver or an avalung, are cords worth anything?

Avy cords seem to have fallen out of favor.

I'm not sure many folk are using them. I recall trying them once or twice, but, pain in the butt. Who really wants to ski with a long leash attached to them? Not very practical, IMHO.

Beeper technology has improved a tad in the last 20 years. I think most savy backcountry travelers are using beepers, especially those in it for the long haul.

Been several folks dug out here (Wasatch) this season, quickly and successfully (ie, they didn't perish) with beepers. No one I know uses an avalung.

Brian in SLC