What's New in Alpine Ski Gear for 2002
Add to Del.icio.usThe hottest new alpine gear on the planet!
by Dena FoltzGetting new skis for Christmas is almost as good as waking up to two feet of fresh snow--your eyes light up, your heart races, you jump up and down. Just like when we were kids, a new toy is the coolest gift. Except now we don't have to ask our parents permission to go outside and play with it. Here are a few gift ideas that will not only make the holidays bright, they'll make this winter much more fun! These truly are gifts that keep on giving.
K2 AK Launcher Downhill Ski
The AK Launcher has been around for a few years now and has earned itself a reputation as the super fat, freeride ski of choice. You can’t help but notice someone wearing a pair of AK Launchers, they are the person ripping it up, wearing a big smile, and not even noticing the cruddy ski conditions while you try and figure out the most forgiving line. These skis are just plain fun. Buy a pair, stick a bow on them, and give someone the gift of a new best friend. Dimensions: 119/88/105 w/ 12mm sidecut.
Look P12 Maxplate Downhill Binding
I know a few people who really, really want these. The Look P12 Maxplate Downhill Binding features an exclusive and ingenious concept: the Pivot heel can rotate both vertically and laterally—reducing risk of injury. The Pivot design reduces premature release by effectively absorbing unwanted shocks and vibrations. Essentially, this binding moves with you. If you need new bindings to go with new skis, throw on a pair of Look P12s and you will literally be riding the cutting edge of ski technology.
Atomic Beta 10EX Ski
The Atomic Beta 10EX Ski is ideal for the skier looking for versatility. Toss a pair of AT bindings on these suckers and you’ve got an amazing backcountry ski. Or, anchor a pair of downhill bindings and blast through any condition the ski area has to offer. The editors of Couloir and Skiing magazines rated this the best fat ski of the year. And we’ve learned by now that fat is where it’s at. But don’t let their girth lead you to believe these skis are limited to powder. The Atomic Beta 10EX will carve short or long radius turns, blast through crud and powder, and hold an edge at 60 mph. These are the skis you will dream about on Christmas Eve. Dimensions 118-84-110.
Silveretta 500 AT Bindings
Turn your skis into alpine touring machines. I mean, help a friend turn their skis into alpine touring machines. These alpine touring bindings, made using the latest in carbon fiber technology, are bombproof. The 500s are light enough for big touring mileage, but burley enough for abuse on the steeps. Silveretta bindings come highly recommended.
Red Helmet X
The description says this helmet is designed for snowboarders, but don’t let that turn you off. Red Helmets get great reviews—why should snowboarders get all the goods? Red Helmet X is cool looking, comfortable, and includes a lightweight ABS shell with a passive venting system and thermo-formed removable ear covers—features you will appreciate in the Spring. If you have a friend still cruising around with an unprotected head because they think helmets are for dorks, then look no further, you’ve found their gift. Even the most vain person will wear this helmet.
Oakley A Frame Goggles
Goggles are a great gift. Everyone needs them and you could always use a better pair. It is something you don’t always splurge on for yourself, but you will really appreciate as a gift—especially a really nice pair of goggles. Oakley A Frames are the industry's only dual lens goggle, optimized for a full field of peripheral clarity. A triple layer of face foam insulates and provides maximum comfort. Ram-Air surge ports with circular air flow prevents fogging. Oakley A Frame Replacement Lenses are also a great gift idea. How cool is it to have a different lens for different conditions?
CamelBak Snobowl 50oz
Santa should be delivering a CamelBak Snobowl to all skiers—naughty or nice. Everyone deserves to stay hydrated. Personally, I’ll be giving one of these to that ski buddy of mine who always asks me for water. Haven’t you ever heard of germs? Get your own. The Snobowl's sleek design fits perfectly under your jacket, doesn't interfere on the lift, and allows you to move freely while you shred the slopes. You won’t even notice it’s there until you are thirsty. The insulated tube and valve cover means you won’t have to deal with a frozen hose. Fifty ounces of water is just enough for a long day on the hill.