What We Ran At The ‘Bird

Stio Environ Jacket

We found this waterproof shell burly enough for many years of use, breathable enough for hard traverses, and stretchy enough for unencumbered face-melting shredding. Pit zips and a roomy helmet compatible hood make it big mountain worthy. 

Scott LCG Goggle

Still the best lens change system we’ve tried (quick but secure), the oversized LCGs offer a massive field of view and a seamless fit with most helmets. $150; scott-sports.com

Leki Carbon 14 S Poles

We run Leki’s Blue Bird Varios most days, but for our Frontside testing we reached for the fixed shaft Carbon 14 S with race baskets. They’re stiff enough to push down a heelpiece set to 12, and don’t slow you down with excessive drag. Be forewarned though, once you experience Leki’s Trigger S system—you clip into the poles instead of dealing with straps—you won’t go back.

Ortovox Haute Route 32

To make a 32-liter pack work for day-long tours, it needs to be smartly designed for space. That’s the new Haute Route. Your avalanche gear slots into a designated compartment; a helmet net holds your lid for the tour; and there’s even a designated spot to fasten your crampons. It’s also a comfortable carry that stays centered on your back while skiing. 

Chaos Pom Beanie

Because the pom-pom hat is to skiing what the cycling cap is to riding—retro cool forevermore. 

Phunkshun Wear Double Layer Tube

They’re made in Colorado, and because they’re two layers thick, they keep your neck and face way warmer than the schwag version you picked up. 

Farm to Feet Franconia Socks

They’re silky smooth, but they’re made of wool by the brand that tracks its sourcing from the farm. Look to the Franconia for a performance fit. 

Dakine Party Bucket

Drape the cooler bag over a standard 5-gallon bucket—available in your neighbor’s yard after dark—gently stock with refreshing pilsners, top with snow. It’s a party…in a bucket.