There are so many different types of ski equipment within the industry that it can sometimes be a little overwhelming to select what equipment is best for you. The basic requirements to hit the mountain are skis/board, boots, bindings, gloves, outerwear, etc. Technology in the ski industry has created so many options for you, so it is best to consult a professional when picking out the right gear. Most resorts can rent skis, boards, and boots at their mountains for those looking to check out new gear before purchasing.
Most skiers and riders have that one piece of equipment they cannot go without while on the mountain. It is their “game changer,” and it does not take long until most skiers and riders eventually find that one piece of equipment that has changed their experience on the mountain. We asked our readers in a Facebook poll, “What piece of equipment has changed your skiing/riding?” and here are their top answers.
#7 Goggles
You are not alone if you’ve ever owned a pair of goggles that always fogged up or did not let you see the mountain in low-light conditions. It is hard to argue that having the right pair of goggles can drastically improve your day on the mountain. It is pretty simple; if you are having problems seeing when going down the mountain, you will not have fun doing it.
#6 BOA System on Boots
Keeping things simple will never go out of fashion. The easier ski industry manufacturers make our gear to use, the more skiers’ and riders’ motivation to hit the mountain is enhanced. BOA stands for “Boot Opening Adjustment,” developed in 2001 in Colorado and initially designed for snowboard boots. Today, the BOA Fit System can be seen in the industry’s boots, helmets, shoes, and other equipment.
#5 Telemark Bindings
Sondre Norheim, who is from Telemark, Norway, is credited as being the father of Telemark skiing when, in 1866, he was invited to attend the first known ski jumping contest and won. A lot has changed since then, and the rival of telemark skiing in the modern day began in the 1970s—alpine skiing. Today, it is hard not to see someone skiing on Telemark skis somewhere on any mountain you go to.
#4 Insulated Pants and Jackets
If you are old enough, you can remember the days of putting on layers and layers of clothes just to stay warm enough to hit the mountain for skiing. After you got fully dressed, it almost made you feel like a big snowman with little mobility and flexibility. Those days are long gone; high-quality ski and riding apparel advancement is big business.
#3 Helmets
Who remembers the days when only professional ski racers wore helmets, and all recreational skiers wore a winter hat while going down the slopes? Helmets have come a long way, and a very small number of skiers or riders on the mountain are not wearing helmets today. If you get the right helmets, they are comfortable, keep your head warm, and, most importantly, protect your head from injury.
#2 Custom Foot Beds
We all want to feel comfortable while on the mountain, and according to our readers, the two top pieces of equipment that change their skiing or riding are directly related to their feet. Taking off your boots can be one of the most satisfying feelings after a long day of skiing or riding. Especially if your feet have been aching and screaming all day after taking a beating from being on the mountain. Custom support footbeds provide skiers and riders with that feeling of comfort, allowing us to enjoy the day on the mountain so much more.
#1 Heated/Fitted Boots
Our readers have spoken, and as previously mentioned, our feet matter to them the most when they hit the mountain on a cold winter’s day. Heated and fitted boots are a total game changer in the ski industry. There is no better feeling than booting up into a pair of boots that were custom-fitted for your own two feet. They allow you to perform better while you are on the mountain and provide warmth to your feet, allowing you to stay out on the mountain longer.
When looking back at the list of the pieces of equipment that have changed your skiing/riding, it is noteworthy to point out some things that were also left off the list. Some equipment that did not make our readers’ list were cambered skis, twin-tip skis, and split boards. Our readers seem to have their priorities set: ensuring their feet are warm and comfortable!
Telemark binding?!?!? NO! To use telemark bindings you have to have a totally different boot and your ski technique is totally different. You might be meaning pin or backcountry bindings as those boots are easier to walk in, but also more expensive and your options for boots will be more limited. But telemark boots and bindings are HARD to find. A much cheaper thing that makes skiing better is a really good pair of fitted wool socks. Smartwool, Fits, and Point 6 socks are my favorite!