Expert Review of the 14 Best Skiing Walkie Talkies [2024]

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My kids have outgrown their bright neon ski jackets and are now venturing off-piste and into the backcountry. As a mom, I need a reliable safety net to keep them within reach.

| TL;DR From Author

Feel at peace skiing in the Backcountry or off piste. Experience the best value for money with the Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio. Feel confident to explore quiet places with a typical range of 1-5 miles and weather resistant up to -20F. It’s durable and has super easy to use buttons and ultra-light carabiner so you don’t even need to remove your mittens.

When my daughter was missing for one hour while skiing at Zermatt, I wished we’d have had walkie talkies as she was actually rescuing a hurt skier. But I never want to feel that again so enjoy the fruits of me nerding out on walkie talkies.

Note: Some require an FCC license. If it’s 2 watts or less, then you don’t need to get a license.

woman skiing in dolomites
From our last ski trip to Dolomites. Seceda is definitely worth a visit.

Since then, I’ve found it to be a great asset so everyone can ski or snowboard how they want.

👉Quick Verdict: Best Walkie Talkies for Skiing Based on Need

Check out this quick list of our top picks if you’re in a hurry, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.

Overall Best System
Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio
9.7
  • SIMPLE and easy to use.
  • 4 days battery life, even in cold. 
  • Designed for climbers and skiers by locals in Colorado.
  • The max range is over 25 miles, however, 1 to 5 miles is more typical in backcountry terrain.
Runner Up
Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 Radio,Black/Gold,One Size
9.1
  • Frequency: 22 FRS GMRS channels + 121 sub-channels ensures minimal interference
  • Power: 2 Watt (FRS) conforming to new FCC rules
  • Useable Range: Approx 6 mi / 9.5 km line of sight
  • Maximum Range: Approx 40 mi / 64 km line of sight
  • Battery Life: Battery life: up to 400 hours in standby mode
Best on a Budget
Midland® T10 X-TALKER Two-Way Radios
7.2
  • 38 CTCSS Privacy Codes with 22 Channels
  • Hands-Free: Easy Voice and Sound Activated Transmission (eVOX) for hands-free operation. Also included: Belt clips (x2) and an owner’s manual.
  • NOAA Weather Scan + Alert

What Are the Best Skiing Walkie Talkies?

woman testing ski radio
Prepping for a Ski Safari – Did you know you can ski hut to hut in the Dolomites? They even give you 3 course dinners and comfy beds each night at a new mountain top hut. The rocky talkie is super easy to use, that’s why I like it.

Quick Table Best Skiing Walkie Talkies

I’ve listed where to find them on amazon here, but you can also shop at REI or directly with the retailer and I’ve included how to find them in the detailed review further down.

Click on Best Mountaineering Watches
to See Prices & Purchase
⭐️ Why is it good? 🔥
Rocky Talkie Mountain RadioOverall Best
Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 RadioOverall Runner Up
Motorola Solutions T380Best for Families
Midland® T10 X-TALKERBest Budget
Best Walkie Talkies for Skiing by Type

Next Best Winter Walkie Talkies:


14 top Picks for Walkie Talkies for Skiing

When selecting walkie-talkies for skiing, it’s crucial to consider that their performance can vary greatly, particularly in the challenging mountainous environment, and adherence to FCC regulations is essential for compliant communication.

Below is my list of the best devices that will help you find your way to Apres Ski faster.

Overall Best

1. Best Overall: Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 9.7/10 Stars | No FCC license required| Buy it!

rocky talkie mountain radio

This is the best ski walkie talkie especially for people that like it simple. Let’s face it, that’s what most snowboarders and skiers want and the Rocky Talkie Mountain radio delivers on it’s roots – adventure based communication.

Pros

  • Reliable and Simple
  • 4 days battery life up to -20 deg F
  • Shatterproof LED screen and thermoplastic protective covering
  • 2 watts – 25 mile range, typicaly 1.5 in backcountry terrain.

Cons

  • No Bluetooth or streaming capabilities for playing personal music files.
  • Not a lot of bells and whistles
  • More expensive than basic portable radios.

The Rocky Talkie is a reliable product that you can use in the field. It has a rechargable 1550 mAh Li-ion battery with USB-C charging. The radio’s power of 2 Watts conforms to new FCC rules, ensuring that you have a clear signal.

The radio’s frequency of 22 FRS GMRS channels + 121 sub-channels ensures minimal interference, making it easy to communicate with your group. The on/off/channel selection dial switch is protected from inadvertent channel changing, ensuring that you don’t accidentally switch to the wrong channel.

Range:

  • Line-of-sight: 25+ miles
  • Mountains: 1 to 5 miles
  • Forest/Hills: 0.5 to 3 miles
  • City: Up to 1 mile

The Rockie Talkie Mountain Radio is a bit on the expensive side, but it’s worth the investment if you’re planning to go on a mountain adventure. The battery life of up to 4 days in standby mode may not be enough for longer trips, so it’s important to keep that in mind.

It is lightweight at : Radio Only: 6.1oz, with leash: 7.9 oz.



2. Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 Radio: Runner Up

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 9.1/10 Stars | No FCC license required | Buy it!

Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 Radio

If you’re planning to go on a mountain adventure, the Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 Radio is a must-have. With its smart mic grill that doesn’t pack with snow and long-lasting built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery, you can communicate with your group with ease.


Pros

  • The 2 Watts of power provide an increased usable range of up to 40 miles line of sight.
  • The on/off/channel selection dial switch is protected from inadvertent channel changing.
  • The frequency of 22 FRS GMRS channels + 121 sub-channels ensures minimal interference.

Cons

  • It’s a bit on the expensive side.
  • The battery life of up to 400 hours in standby mode may not be enough for longer trips.
  • It may not be suitable for beginners who are not familiar with two-way radios.

The Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 Radio is a reliable product that you can use in the field. It integrates into all Float avalanche airbag and Stash backpacks, making it easy to carry around. The radio’s power of 2 Watts conforms to new FCC rules, ensuring that you have a clear signal.

The radio’s frequency of 22 FRS GMRS channels + 121 sub-channels ensures minimal interference, making it easy to communicate with your group. The on/off/channel selection dial switch is protected from inadvertent channel changing, ensuring that you don’t accidentally switch to the wrong channel.

The Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 Radio is a bit on the expensive side, but it’s worth the investment if you’re planning to go on a mountain adventure. The battery life of up to 400 hours in standby mode may not be enough for longer trips, so it’s important to keep that in mind.


3. Motorola Solutions T380: Best for Families

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 8.3/10 Stars | No FCC license required | Buy it!

Motorola Solutions T380 Yellow 25 Mile 2 Way Radio W/Charging Dock

If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use walkie-talkie for your next skiing trip, the Motorola Solutions T380 is a great choice.


Pros

  • The range of up to 25 miles ensures you can stay in touch with your group even in remote areas.
  • The easy pairing for group call function and backlit display make it simple to use, even in low-light conditions.
  • The NOAA/EC Weather channels and alerts and IP54 weatherproof design make it suitable for all weather conditions.

Cons

  • The battery life could be longer.
  • The sound quality could be better.
  • The lanyard and carabiner could be more durable.

The Motorola Solutions T380 is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use walkie-talkie for skiing. The range of up to 25 miles ensures you can stay in touch with your group even in remote areas, while the easy pairing for group call function and backlit display make it simple to use, even in low-light conditions. The NOAA/EC Weather channels and alerts and IP54 weatherproof design make it suitable for all weather conditions.

However, the battery life could be longer, and the sound quality could be better. Additionally, the lanyard and carabiner could be more durable. Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use walkie-talkie for skiing, the Motorola Solutions T380 is a great choice.


4. Midland® T10 X-TALKER Two-Way Radios: Best on a Budget

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 7.2/10 Stars | No FCC license required | Buy it!

Midland® T10 X-TALKER Two-Way Radios

If you’re looking for reliable and durable two-way radios for your outdoor adventures, the Midland T10 X-TALKER is a solid choice.



Pros

  • Exceptional point-to-point communication with extensive reception, transmission, and sound quality
  • 38 CTCSS Privacy Codes with 22 Channels and Weather Alert technology for secure and private conversations
  • Easy Voice and Sound Activated Transmission (eVOX) for hands-free operation

Cons

  • The range may not be as long as advertised in areas with obstructions
  • The radios require 6 AAA batteries, which can add up in cost over time
  • The radios are small and may be difficult to handle with gloves on

The Midland T10 X-TALKER delivers clear and reliable communication even in challenging terrains. With 22 scannable channels and easy button access, you can explore and communicate efficiently without worrying about channel congestion or missed messages. The privacy codes provide an added layer of security, outsmarting eavesdroppers and keeping your conversations private.

The eVOX feature allows for hands-free operation, making it easier to multitask while communicating. However, the range may not be as long as advertised in areas with obstructions, so it’s important to keep that in mind when planning your outdoor activities.


5. BAOFENG BF-F8HP Two-Way Radio: Most Long Range

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 9.3/10 Stars | Needs FCC license Buy it!

BAOFENG BF-F8HP Two-Way Radio

If you are looking for a powerful two-way radio that can handle the mountains, the BAOFENG BF-F8HP is a great option.

Pros

  • The BF-F8HP is the most powerful BaoFeng capable of transmitting 8 watts.
  • The customizable tri-color display makes it easy to use.
  • The BF-F8HP maintains full cross accessory compatibility with all previous UV-5R accessories.

Cons

  • The BF-F8HP is a bit bulky and heavy.
  • The battery life is not the best.
  • The user manual can be a bit overwhelming for beginners.

With its high power and durable shell, the BF-F8HP is a great choice for those who need a reliable two-way radio in the mountains. The tri-color display is easy to read and customize, and the radio is compatible with a wide range of accessories.

However, the BF-F8HP is a bit bulky and heavy, which can be a downside for those who need to carry it around for long periods of time. Additionally, the battery life is not the best, so you may need to bring extra batteries or a charger with you. Finally, the user manual can be a bit overwhelming for beginners, so you may need to spend some time learning how to use all of the features.


6. TIDRADIO 10W HighPower Ham Radio Handheld (TD-H8): Most Programmable

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 8.6/10 Stars | Needs FCC license Buy it!

TIDRADIO TD-H8

If you’re looking for a powerful and reliable walkie-talkie for skiing, the TIDRADIO TD-H8 is definitely worth considering.


Pros

  • Self-upgradable software for easy and cost-effective upgrades
  • High power output for consistent and reliable communication
  • Easy programming through the Odmaster app

Cons

  • Relatively bulky and heavy design may not be suitable for all users
  • Loud squeal on VHF frequencies reported by some users
  • Bluetooth connectivity issues reported by some users

The TIDRADIO TD-H8 is a great choice for skiers who need a powerful and reliable walkie-talkie. With its self-upgradable software, you can easily upgrade the radio without having to buy a new one. The high power output and long antenna ensure consistent and reliable communication, even in challenging conditions. Plus, the Odmaster app makes programming the radio a breeze.

However, some users have reported issues with the radio’s design, including its relatively bulky and heavy size. Additionally, some users have reported a loud squeal on VHF frequencies, while others have had issues with Bluetooth connectivity.


7. DURLK Walkie Talkies: Absolute Cheapest

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 5.3/10 Stars | No FCC license required | Buy it!

DURLK Walkie Talkies

If you’re looking for reliable communication while exploring the mountains, DURLK Walkie Talkies are a great option.

Pros

  • Rechargeable batteries and USB-C charging make it eco-friendly and convenient
  • Long range of up to 15 miles in open areas
  • Comprehensive set of features for easy communication

Cons

  • Range can be affected by adverse weather, car (iron material), and buildings
  • Not suitable for underwater use
  • May not work in areas with poor signal reception

The DURLK Walkie Talkies come with 4 x 1200mAh built-in lithium batteries that can last for 3-4 days after charging for 2-3 hours. The USB-C charging feature is incredibly convenient, saving both stress and money on batteries. The upgraded antenna and sound technology provide crystal clear communication within 1.5 miles, with a range of up to 15 miles in open areas.

The available 22 channels and 121 sub channels provide an extended signal range with 2,662 channel combinations, and all radios must be set to the same code (channel) to communicate with each other. The comprehensive set of features, including auto squelch, auto memory, auto scanning, auto power saving, and low battery alert, makes communication easy. The HD LCD display and compatibility with most brands are additional benefits.

The DURLK Walkie Talkies are lightweight and easy to use, with an ergonomic design that fits well in the hands. The radio set comes with a hands-free belt clip, making it easy to carry.

They are perfect for camping, hiking, cruises, keeping track of one another in an amusement park or shopping mall, or using in environments where cell phone reception is spotty.

The DURLK Walkie Talkies are rigorously tested to comply with CPC and FCC standards (FCC ID: 2AN6WXF-638). If you have any quality problem, contact DURLK for a 1-year warranty.


8. Midland GXT1000VP4 Walkie Talkie: Best Weatherproof

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 8.6/10 Stars | Needs FCC license Buy it!

Midland GXT1000VP4 Walkie Talkie

If you’re looking for a reliable and durable walkie-talkie for your outdoor activities, the Midland GXT1000VP4 is definitely worth considering.



Pros

  • The 36-mile range is perfect for outdoor activities where you need to keep in touch with your group.
  • The 142 privacy codes provide a lot of options to block other conversations and ensure your privacy.
  • The JIS-4 waterproof protection makes it splash-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about light rain or splashing water.

Cons

  • The rechargeable battery packs take 12 hours to charge, which can be inconvenient if you need to use the walkie-talkies right away.
  • The ear boom is a little large, which may not be comfortable for everyone.
  • The advertised 36-mile range may not be achievable in all conditions.

The Midland GXT1000VP4 is a great walkie-talkie for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable communication with their group. With a 36-mile range, 142 privacy codes, and JIS-4 waterproof protection, you can stay connected and protected in any outdoor activity.

The 142 privacy codes provide a lot of options to block other conversations and ensure your privacy. The JIS-4 waterproof protection makes it splash-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about light rain or splashing water.

However, the rechargeable battery packs take 12 hours to charge, which can be inconvenient if you need to use the walkie-talkies right away. The tear boom is a little large, which may not be comfortable for everyone. Finally, the advertised 36-mile range may not be achievable in all conditions.


9. Motorola Solutions T270 Two-Way Radio: Most Stylish for Snowbunnies

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 7.7/10 Stars | No FCC license required | Buy it!

Motorola Solutions T270 Two-Way Radio

The Motorola Solutions T270 Two-Way Radio is a great option for those who want a reliable way to stay in touch on the slopes. With easy pairing and USB charging, you can quickly get set up and enjoy approximately 18 hours of battery life. Plus, the inclusion of NOAA weather channels and alerts means you can stay safe in any situation.


Pros

  • The easy pairing button makes setup a breeze.
  • Dual power and USB charging allow for approximately 18 hours of battery life.
  • Includes NOAA weather channels and alerts, so you can stay safe in any situation.

Cons

  • The PTT button has little travel, which may make you unsure if you’re transmitting.
  • The battery life could be longer.
  • The range may be limited to a few blocks.

However, the PTT button may not be as responsive as you’d like, which could make you unsure if you’re transmitting. Additionally, the battery life could be longer, and the range may be limited to a few blocks. Despite these drawbacks, the Motorola Solutions T270 Two-Way Radio is still a solid choice for skiing enthusiasts.


10. Retevis RT49P Waterproof Walkie Talkies : Best Flashlight

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 9.7/10 Stars | No FCC license required Buy it!

Retevis RT49P Waterproof Walkie Talkies

If you’re looking for reliable walkie-talkies for skiing or kayaking, the Retevis RT49P is a great choice.

Pros

  • The RT49P is waterproof and floats, making it perfect for water-based activities.
  • The radio has a long range, allowing you to communicate over a distance of up to 1.5 kilometers in open areas.
  • The RT49P comes with rechargeable batteries, as well as the option to use alkaline or Li-ion batteries.

Cons

  • Battery life can be limited if the screen is left on constantly.
  • The range is limited in areas with obstructions or interference.
  • The radio is fairly heavy, which may be uncomfortable for some users.

The Retevis RT49P is a sturdy, well-built walkie-talkie that is perfect for outdoor activities. The radio is waterproof and floats, so you don’t have to worry about it getting damaged if it falls into the water. The long-range communication capabilities of the RT49P make it ideal for use in open areas, allowing you to stay in touch with your group over a distance of up to 1.5 kilometers.

The RT49P is easy to use and compatible with any radio, allowing you to communicate with other FRS radios regardless of brand by being on the same channel and CTCSS DCS codes. The radio also has a NOAA weather alert and 11 weather channels, so you can stay informed about real-time weather conditions and ensure your safety during outdoor activities.

The crystal-clear sound of the RT49P is a result of the special microphone speaker design that effectively prevents outdoor noise from affecting the call. The radio also has an SOS emergency handheld two-way radio with one key to turn on the SOS function and a long press to open the red warning light, making it more convenient for positioning.

The flashlight torch is another great feature of the RT49P, providing lighting at night and automatically lighting up when falling into the water. It can also be used together with the SOS alarm red light.


11. DEWALT DXFRS800: Most Heavy Duty

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 8.7/10 Stars | No FCC license required | Buy it!

DEWALT DXFRS800 2 Watt Heavy Duty Walkie Talkies

If you’re looking for a reliable, feature-rich walkie talkie that can stand up to the elements, the DEWALT DXFRS800 2 Watt Heavy Duty Walkie Talkies are a great option.

Pros

  • Guaranteed tough with an industry-leading limited lifetime warranty
  • Ultra-clear long distance reception with a 2 Watt RF output and 300,000 sq.ft (or 25 floors) range
  • Rugged durability with an IP67 rating for water & dust protection and a shock resistant, anti-slip design that can withstand drops up to 2M

Cons

  • Button placement on the face of the unit can be inconvenient
  • Limited channel selection can make it difficult to change channels while driving
  • Confirmation beep is loud and cannot be adjusted

These walkie talkies are a great choice for jobsites, contractors, and businesses. They feature 22 preset channels and 121 privacy codes to minimize unwanted interference, as well as battery saving technology that allows for up to 18 hours of continued use.

Hands-free VOX operation, vibration alert, roger beep, auto squelch, and convenient accessories for 6-port charging and earpieces (sold separately) make these walkie talkies versatile for the whole team.


12. WokTok Walkie Talkies: Most Colorful

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 4.7/10 Stars | No FCC license required | Buy it!

WokTok Walkie Talkies

If you’re looking for long-range walkie talkies for skiing, hiking, or camping, then WokTok Walkie Talkies are a good option.

Pros

  • Rechargeable batteries with low battery alert and automatic power-saving
  • Range up to 3 miles in the open area
  • 121 privacy codes for safety and privacy

Cons

  • May not work well in heavily wooded areas
  • Some users reported issues with the charging cable
  • The lock keypad function may be too sensitive

These walkie talkies are powered by rechargeable batteries and have a low battery alert to avoid mid-communication drop-offs and static noise. They also have an automatic power-saving function to extend battery life and entertainment time. The range of these walkie talkies is up to 3 miles in the open area, making them ideal for skiing, hiking, or camping. They have 121 privacy codes to ensure safety and privacy.

However, some users reported that these walkie talkies may not work well in heavily wooded areas. Additionally, some users experienced issues with the charging cable. The lock keypad function may be too sensitive, causing accidental button presses.


13. Wishouse Adults Walkie Talkies: Best Rechargeable

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 6.1/10 Stars | No FCC license required | Buy it!

Wishouse Adults Walkie Talkies

If you are looking for a cost-effective walkie-talkie that is perfect for skiing, hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities, then the Wishouse Adults Walkie Talkies Rechargeable is a great option to consider.

Pros

  • The rechargeable batteries and USB chargers are cost-effective and convenient, and the long battery life ensures that you can use the walkie-talkies for extended periods of time without worrying about running out of power.
  • The upgraded chipset provides excellent reception sensitivity and signal stability, which allows for clear and fluent communication even in mountainous areas or other challenging environments.
  • The anti-lost lanyard and clip make it easy to wear and carry the walkie-talkies, and the built-in flashlight is a handy feature that can be used for exploring or navigating in low-light conditions.

Cons

  • The range in real-world conditions may not always reach the maximum advertised range of 20 miles, but it is still more than sufficient for most outdoor activities.
  • The keypad lock may be difficult to use for younger children, and some users may find the instructions difficult to understand.
  • The walkie-talkies may not be as durable as some other models, and they may not withstand rough handling or extreme weather conditions.

14. Motorola TALKABOUT T478: Best for Emergency

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 8.7/10 Stars | No FCC license required | Buy it!

Motorola Solutions Red Cross T478 Talkabout White Rechargeable Emergency preparedness 35-Mile 2-Way Radio

The Motorola Solutions T478 Rechargeable Emergency Preparedness Two-Way Radio is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use communication device during emergencies.


Pros:

  1. Range of up to 35 miles ensures that you can stay connected with your group even in remote areas.
  2. NOAA Weather channels and alerts and IP54 weatherproof design make it suitable for all weather conditions.
  3. Emergency alert button, built-in flashlight, and micro-USB charging port are handy features that can come in useful during emergencies.

Cons:

  1. Battery life could be longer, which could be a problem if you’re planning on using the radio for extended periods of time.
  2. Sound quality could be better, which could make it difficult to hear your group members in noisy environments.
  3. The price point is higher compared to other two-way radios on the market.

The T478 also features an emergency alert button, which can be used to signal for help in case of an emergency. The built-in flashlight and micro-USB charging port are also handy features that can come in useful during emergencies. The radio is also equipped with a VibraCall feature, which alerts you silently when you receive a call, making it suitable for use in quiet environments.

The T478 has a durable design, which makes it suitable for use in rugged terrain. However, the battery life could be longer, which could be a problem if you’re planning on using the radio for extended periods of time.

The sound quality could be better, which could make it difficult to hear your group members in noisy environments.


Buying Guide

When choosing the best skiing walkie-talkies, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you get the most suitable product for your needs. Here are some features to look out for:

best skiing walking talkies
I’m going to try these on my upcoming ski safari in the Dolomites

Range

The range of your walkie-talkies is an important factor to consider. If you’re skiing in a group, you’ll want to ensure that the range is sufficient to stay in touch with each other. Look for walkie-talkies with a range of at least 2 miles, although some models can reach up to 30 miles.

Durability

Skiing can be a rough and tumble activity, so you’ll want a walkie-talkie that can withstand the elements. Look for a product that is waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof. Additionally, consider the material of the walkie-talkie, as some are made with more durable materials than others.

Battery Life

The battery life of your walkie-talkies is another important factor to consider. Look for a product with a long battery life, so you don’t have to worry about your walkie-talkies dying in the middle of your skiing trip. Some models have rechargeable batteries, while others require AA or AAA batteries.

Consider getting a backup ski watch with GPS or ABC features to ensure safety or keep your device inside an insulated down jacket to preserve battery life..

Features

Consider what features are important to you. Some walkie-talkies come with additional features such as weather alerts, noise reduction, and hands-free operation. Additionally, some models have a built-in GPS, which can be useful if you get lost or separated from your group.

best walkie talkie for skiing

Price

Finally, consider your budget. Walkie-talkies can range in price from under $20 to over $200. While it’s important to invest in a quality product, you don’t want to overspend on features you don’t need. Determine which features are most important to you and find a product that fits within your budget.

Are Walkie Talkies for Skiing Worth it?

Not everyone needs them. But if you want them you should look for 👎🏻

  • Excellent Range
  • Durability
  • Battery Life
  • Value

This review is targeted at people that want the best skiing walkie talkies and not waste time waiting for your kids or friends that have already skied past you.

If you’re looking for emergency equipment, read my post about the best personal locator beacons for mountaineering (this post is not for you).

Please remember ➡️ with advancing climate change, you must be prepared for variable weather and that does make the snowpack less predictable.

I’ve found it best to ask locals about “iffy” trails and off-piste and gain some insight about the risk. There’s always some risk. Don’t forget to take a hiking headlamp just in case and buy good mogul skis if you want to hit the bumps. If you are curious about the best backcountry ski boots, check out my review.

Final Verdict

Overall Best System
Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio

Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio

Lightweight

Simple Design

Made for the Mountains

The Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio features a heavy-duty ABS plastic construction that is weather-resistant from dust, rain and impacts. The USB C charger will get your lightweight walkie talkie charged for 4 days of normal use. 

Pros
  • Simple design
  • Designed by climbers and skiers for the outdoor set
  • 25 mile range - 1.5 miles in backcountry
Cons
  • Not for people that want a lot of bells and whistles
  • Pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best communication on ski slopes?

The best communication on ski slopes is through walkie talkies. They allow you to stay in touch with your group and communicate any issues or changes in plans quickly and easily.

What is the difference between 2 way radios and walkie talkies?

2 way radios and walkie talkies are essentially the same thing. The term “walkie talkie” is often used to refer to smaller, handheld radios that are easy to carry around, while “2 way radio” is a more general term that can refer to any radio that allows two-way communication.

What walkie talkies do ski patrol use?

Ski patrol typically use high-quality, durable walkie talkies that are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and rough handling. Some popular brands include Motorola, Kenwood, and Midland.

How do you talk to someone while skiing?

To talk to someone while skiing, you simply need to press the push-to-talk button on your walkie talkie and speak into the microphone. Make sure to keep your walkie talkie close to your mouth and speak clearly to ensure that your message is heard. Use a ski glove liner to protect your hands but still operate device.

What are the best waterproof walkie talkies for skiing?

The best waterproof walkie talkies for skiing are those that are designed to withstand exposure to snow, ice, and water. Some popular options include Motorola T600 H2O Talkabout Radio and Midland GXT1000VP4.

What are the best long-range walkie talkies for skiing?

The best long-range walkie talkies for skiing are those that offer a range of at least 20 miles. Some popular options include the Backcountry Access BS 2.0, Motorola T380 Yellow Radio and BAOFENG PF-F8HP radio.

What are the best small walkie talkies for skiing?

The best small walkie talkies for skiing are those that are easy to carry around and don’t weigh you down. Some popular options include Durlk Walkie talkies, Midland T10, Motorola T100 Talkabout Radio and Midland LXT500VP3. The overall best is the Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio.



If you’re looking for a relatable and honest take on outdoor gear, you’re in the right place.

Why Trust? Our Review Process

  • We own and field test every product in real-life outdoor situations.
  • No sponsored reviews or payment for reviews.
  • We constantly update our guides when new products launch.
  • Hiked and skied on 3 continents x 30 years.

We know finding trustworthy advice can be tough. As a physical therapist, avid hut-to-hut hiker, skier, and mother, I’m always on the lookout for gear that enhances comfort and enjoyment in the great outdoors, all while grounded in scientific principles. That’s the inspiration behind Crave the Planet.

I’ll be real with you, I’m not an expert in every outdoor activity. But, who is? I’m just a regular person who loves exploring the planet and our growing team lives for the Outdoors.

We value continuous learning and welcome your constructive feedback. If you spot a missed product or an error, please let us know.

I hope you enjoyed this round up of the best skiing walkie talkies on the market.

Author profile: Morgan Fielder is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and passionate hiker who believes in exploring the world on foot with good food. Follow her journey as she shares science-based hiking tips and advocates for sustainable tourism.