Even if you’re a piste-only cruiser an avalanche is a real risk in any ski resort. And as of February 2026 we’re seeing some high avalanche ratings across Europe, from the Pyrenees to the Alps. And if you’re looking for avalanche safety, you probably have seen the Recco branding.
Recco is a small, silver strip sewn into your jacket that you probably barely notice, but in current conditions, it could be the most important bit of plastic you own. So what exactly is Recco?
How do Recco reflectors work?
The Recco system is a nifty piece of passive technology. It’s basically a reflective surface which pings when someone points the associated detector at it – which is potentially when the wearer is under a deep layer of avalanche snow.
The detector can be a handheld machine, used by on the ground mountain rescue, or mounted on vehicles such as helicopters. Your tiny Recco reflector attached to your jacket, helmet, gloves, or anything else you’ve put a Recco tag on needs no power. But when the detector beam hits the diode inside your Recco reflector, the signal “bounces” back at a doubled frequency.
The detector picks up this echo and emits an audible tone that gets louder as the rescuer gets closer. It’s fast, precise, and works through meters of dense, wet snow. In an incident where every second counts, such as avalanches or landslides, it’s a vital tool for professional teams to sweep a slope in minutes rather than hours.
Does it matter which items have Recco reflectors?
In a word: Yes. It’s a good idea to have those Recco reflectors in items which are not going to be removed from you during an avalancge or incident (hopefully). This means jackets, helmets and things like boots are best for your avalanche reflectors. A lot of high-end shells from brands like Helly Hansen or Spyder come with a reflector integrated into the hood or sleeve. However, search-and-rescue teams often recommend wearing two reflectors.
Why? Orientation. If you are buried in a complex position, having a reflector on your ski boots and your helmet (or jacket) increases the chances of a signal “echoing” back to the detector, regardless of how you’re twisted under the snow. Many modern helmets such as this POC helmet or ski or snowboard boots from brands like K2 or Vans include Recco reflectors.
In short, if you have the choice, go for gear that spreads the reflectors across your body—it effectively turns you into a larger target for the rescue radar.
You can always buy extra Recco tags to attach to your non-Recco integrated items such as helmets, boots or your day bag.
Do you need Recco if you’re going off-piste?
Yes, a Recco tag is a good addition for your off-piste line up. But. and this is the golden rule of mountain safety: Recco is NOT a replacement for an avalanche transceiver.
If you are heading into the backcountry or even just the side-piste stashes during a powder day, you must carry a transceiver, shovel, and probe. A transceiver allows your friends to find you immediately (companion rescue). Recco is designed for professional rescue. If you are buried, your mates can’t find you with Recco; they will need a transceiver. However, Recco is an essential “Plan B.” If your transceiver fails, runs out of battery, or is lost in the slide, Recco ensures you are still searchable by the helicopter or the patrol team. Think of it as your final safety net.
Can you add Recco to your existing gear?
The good thing about Recco is that you don’t need to buy a whole new outfit to be searchable. You can easily retro-fit your current kit.
- Stick-on Reflectors: These are the most popular options. You can grab a Recco reflector on Amazon for about £25 and stick it directly onto your helmet. The hard surface of the helmet provides the perfect base for the adhesive.
- Reflector Belts: Ideal if you swap between different jackets. A Recco belt keeps the reflectors centered on your body and is almost impossible to lose in a fall.
- Backpack Clips: Great for summer hiking or ski touring, though remember that if you lose your bag in an avalanche, the reflector goes with it.
If you’re looking for a bargain this late in the season, check out our last minute ski packages to find lift pass-inclusive deals. Being prepared doesn’t have to be expensive, but in 2026, it is mandatory.
Stay safe out there, and remember: if the flags are black and yellow, keep it on the marked runs.
