BaseCamp
BaseCamp
Why This Exists
The BaseCamp is designed for winter travel where control and predictability matter more than convenience. In crusty, icy, and variable snow conditions, it tracks true, allowing you to take more direct routes, move confidently through timber, and link long descents without fighting the sled. The system is built to stay stable and manageable so your focus stays on terrain and travel—not load management.
Key Advantages
- Predictable tracking in crust, ice, and variable snow
- Side-mounted pole geometry stays clear of hips and legs
- Fully adjustable front and rear harness
- One-piece duffel removal for fast transitions
- Backpack carry for portages, travel, and crossings
- Modular, serviceable sled system
How It’s Built
Hull
The BaseCamp sled hull is made from High-Density Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE), chosen for its impact resistance, flexibility in extreme cold, and long-term durability in harsh winter environments.
Harness & Pole System
The fully adjustable front and rear harness keeps the poles positioned at your sides regardless of waist size. This geometry improves balance, reduces interference while skiing or walking, and maintains consistent tracking in uneven terrain.
Load Carry
Gear is carried in a 13,000 cubic inch duffel constructed from 1,000-denier Cordura nylon. Two buckles allow the entire load to be removed from the sled at once, keeping transitions simple and efficient.
Transport & Transitions
Wide nylon straps allow the sled to be carried as a backpack when needed—for fording rivers, crossing pressure ridges, or moving through airports and other travel environments.
Designed For
- Multi-day winter travel and expeditions
- Nordic centers and instructional programs
- Family and group hauling
- Cold-weather logistics and transport
- Travel-heavy winter use
Frequently Asked Questions
Sled Hull
What is the sled hull made out of?
The BaseCamp sled hull is made from high-density cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE), a material selected specifically for demanding winter environments. Unlike standard polyethylene, XLPE has a cross-linked molecular structure that increases impact resistance, toughness, and crack resistance—especially in extreme cold. This allows the hull to flex under load and impact rather than fracture. The result is a hull built for repeated hard use, not cosmetic longevity.
Poles
What are the poles made from?
Our pole system is constructed from chromoly steel tubing selected for strength, fatigue resistance, and long-term durability in cold environments. Chromoly offers a balance of stiffness and toughness that performs reliably under repeated load cycles and impact—especially in variable winter conditions.
Why chromoly instead of aluminum?
Chromoly was chosen intentionally over aluminum for durability and fatigue resistance. While aluminum can offer weight savings, it is more susceptible to permanent deformation and fatigue cracking under repeated loading—especially in cold temperatures. Chromoly provides greater resilience, predictable behavior under stress, and a longer service life for users who depend on their equipment in demanding conditions.
Intended Use & Loading
How much weight is it designed to carry?
The BaseCamp is designed for hauling heavy expedition and group loads typical of multi-day winter travel. Because sled forces vary with terrain, snow conditions, and user behavior, we do not publish a single maximum load rating. The system prioritizes stability and durability within its intended use. Users are responsible for appropriate loading and judgment.
Can it be used to haul adult people?
These products are designed primarily for load transport in winter environments. Some users may choose to transport adult people in specific situations, which requires appropriate judgment, terrain assessment, and risk management.
For users anticipating adult transport or heavier-duty applications, we recommend contacting us directly to discuss intended use. In those cases, larger or reinforced systems—such as the reinforced BaseCamp XL or U-MAX—may be more appropriate depending on requirements.
Replacement Parts & Serviceability
Are replacement parts available?
Yes. Replacement components are available for key parts of the BaseCamp system, including the sled hull and pole components. This allows users to service their equipment over time rather than replace it entirely. Availability may vary by component and production cycle. Contact us if you need a specific part.
Shipping & Logistics
Do you ship internationally and to Alaska?
Yes, we ship internationally to select countries and also ship to Alaska. Shipping costs, duties, taxes, and import requirements vary by destination and are the responsibility of the customer. Transit times may be longer for international orders. Please contact us if you have questions about shipping to a specific country.
If your location is not listed or you have specific shipping requirements, please contact us directly. We regularly work with international customers and institutional buyers to evaluate options and determine the most practical shipping solution based on destination, order size, and intended use.
KinderShuttle
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