Somehow he’s always on the side of a mountain. Snow seems to follow him and he follows the best lines of every run. You won’t keep up with him, but it’s worth ensuring his fun and safety.
Jackets
My typical outfit when taking on the cold involves multiple layers, allowing me to shed excess warmth when it’s unnecessary. I opt for a lighter weight shell for my outermost layer, and this Gore-Tex equipped jacket offers just that.
In truth I know little about this jacket aside from the fact that I like the color palette. Visibility is important to me, because I like my team being able to find me even when buried in a tree well. Grab one now while they’re 50% off. You can always return it later.
Goggles
Just picked up a pair of these earlier this year and I cannot wait to put them to the test. I was pretty adamant about having interchangeable lenses, and these come with a second swappable lens off the bat, meaning I can tackle each day without sacrificing visibility. The lowlight really comes in clutch when trying to avoid icy patches on overcast days. While a bit pricier than some options, Smith makes incredible lenses and ChromaPop really makes them shine.
Gloves
Gloves are one of the most important parts of any kit for taking on the mountain. Cold fingers make everything difficult, but bulky gloves and mittens are equally frustrating. I have a pair of Hestras that have kept me warm for 5+ years of 20+ days on the mountain. I almost never wear glove liners, but have room in them if needed, just size up accordingly. More importantly, I never feel restricted in them, and can buckle/unbuckle my bindings quickly when needed. Keep them dry and they’ll keep you warm. Check these out if he likes a bit more of a cuff. Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex Glove
Best way to keep your fingers warm? Keep your core warm. If your body doesn’t have to worry about protecting your core, it can supply blood throughout your extremities. Merino Wool is a favorite of mine, and I always opt for a higher percentage to reap all the benefits of this wonderful material. I’m also partial to Smartwool since they were started in Steamboat.
Baselayer Shirts
Smartwool Men’s Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew
Smartwool Men's Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer 1/4 Zip
Baselayer Pants
Smartwool Men's Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Bottom
Backcountry Lightweight Bottom
Other
While these come in both a wired and wireless version, I would save the money and go for the wired version. Connectivity issues become annoying, and I prefer to deal with a single piece of technology instead of the pair. If the wire is a concern, check out the wireless pair here.
Skis
As an avid snowboarder, I’ve consistently picked my snowboard for powder days over the past dozen years, but that might change this year. These powder hounds seek out even the faintest whiff of glorious whitespace, and they look awesome while doing it. Will you see me on skis this whole winter? Maybe.
Boards
Need a curated recommendation? Message me and I can set you up with the perfect kit!