Backcountry Access Magnifying Loupe

15x magnification is the sweet spot for identifying snow grain types and metamorphism. It provides enough detail to clearly see crystal facets and rounding without making the field of view too narrow to get a sense of the overall snow structure.

Yes, it is built specifically for the abuse of backcountry travel. The housing is designed to withstand cold temperatures and the inevitable knocks that happen when you are digging pits or moving through variable terrain.

Like any optical tool, condensation can occur when moving between extreme temperature gradients. We recommend keeping it in an inside pocket close to your body heat to minimize fogging when you pull it out for a quick analysis.

While the loupe is simple to operate, interpreting what you see requires some foundational knowledge. It is best used in conjunction with an AIARE or similar avalanche education course, where you will learn how to identify the specific crystal shapes that indicate instability.

The loupe is compact, so you will likely need to remove at least your outer glove or mitten to hold it steady and get your eye close enough to the lens for a clear view. It is small enough to handle easily with a thin liner glove.