Gear Review
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Valentine’s Day is next Tuesday, February 14th. If you’re struggling with what to buy your skiing or riding significant other, below is a list of gift ideas for all budgets.
1. Insta360 X3
Four months ago, Insta360 announced the X3, a new interchangeable lens action camera that offers creators all-in-one versatility without compromises. Whose doesn’t like a cool gadget?
With a new 1/2″ sensor and a 2.29” touchscreen, Insta360 X3 is the most powerful camera you can carry in your pocket. Capture 5.7K 360 video with Active HDR and the Invisible Selfie Stick effect or 72MP photos with stunning details. X3 doubles as a standard action cam with Single-Lens Mode upgraded to sharp, ultra-wide 4K. For editing your shots, the Insta360 app is an AI powerhouse with intuitive reframing tools for making magic out of the action.
Insta360 X3 is available to order today via Insta360.com and select retailers worldwide.
2. Noc Provisions Standard Issue Waterproof Binoculars—The Ultimate in Backcountry Line-Scoping
Waterproof, fog proof, light, compact, and durable—the Noc Provisions Standard Issue Binoculars 10×25 were born for adventure. Noc Provisions sources Swiss optical engineering technology for the Standard Issue Binoculars, aka ‘Nocs,’ such as its authentic Bak4 Prisms and Fully Multi-Coated lenses, which provide a bright, wide field of view wherever you go.
I was looking for a pair of binoculars I could take ski touring with me this spring for scoping backcountry lines and decided to test out the Nocs 10×25. I believe it was the best decision I could’ve made in this regard.
3. Skigee
As the name suggests, this is a squeegee for your goggles. We all know how frustrating it is when you can’t see while skiing. Wet snow and freezing fog can drastically reduce your visibility. The soft rubber construction won’t scratch your goggles. I never ski without one. I put it on my pole strap, so it is always readily available. You can pick one up for less than $3, or most resorts and ski shops will have them near the front counter.
4. Powder Baskets
Pole baskets’ function is to ensure your poles don’t sink too deep into the snow. Most ski poles come with a standard-size basket. This is fine for many snow conditions, but once the powder day comes, you want them wider. This is one of the simplest upgrades you can make. So, unless you are a ski racer, get some powder baskets and swap them out for your standard ones. They still work great on a hardpack day, and you can usually find them for about $10.
5. Cat Tracks
Your ski boots are arguably your most important piece of required gear, so why not protect them? Cat tracks keep your soles from wearing down when you are walking. Not only that, but they make it more comfortable when walking and provide a grip on snow and ice. $20, and you’re all set.
6. Ski Lock
If you’ve ever had your skis stolen while taking your lunch break (like I have), then you know the value of keeping them safe. Skip the hassle and cost of ski check service and get one of these compact locks. Most locks have a pretty thin cable, so it could be cut easily with the right tool. However, it is a big enough deterrent that it will make a thief move on to one of the dozens of skis that isn’t locked. Less than $20 is worth the peace of mind.
7. Phoozy
The snow, freezing rain, and other wintery conditions can drain your phone battery. Don’t let that happen with the Phoozy. It is made from the same material NASA uses for spacesuits. It will extend your battery life in the cold and the heat and protect your phone from drops. It also floats in water. $30, and you can extend your battery life up to 3X (versus not using it).
8. Powder Leashes
These are nice to have for the deepest of powder days. Powder leases are colorful trailers that deploy on top of the snow if you lose a ski in an (unlikely) fall. Finding a ski buried in powder can be extremely burdensome, not to mention waste valuable time while others are getting face shots. Don’t be the person walking down the mountain carrying one ski. Pick these up to ensure you can find your ski and your dignity.
9. Boot Dryers
Remove moisture and odor after your ski day with these boot dryers. They will set you up for your next ski day by ensuring your boots are dry. Simple convection drying with light heat means it removes moisture without causing damage. These are a must for me, especially when I’m on a ski trip and skiing multiple days in a row. They pack easily too. Pro tip: plug them into your car’s auxiliary power outlet while driving up to the mountain and put on a warm, dry boot in the parking lot.
10. Ski Straps
Don’t just throw your skis in your car or box top and rely on your ski brakes to keep them together in transport. Use these $6 straps to prevent damage. They are also handy in the backcountry or anywhere to secure, bundle, or repair anything.
11. Two-Way Radios
Having a reliable way to communicate with your group while skiing is highly desirable. It is frustrating to get separated from your partners and have no way of knowing where they are. Even with good cell phone service, it is much easier to use these classic push-to-talk radios. A cheap pair will do the trick just fine. For a higher-end radio that can attach to your outerwear, check out the BC Link 2.0 (25% off right now) or the Rocky Talkie.
