Snow Sports
Archive
It’s got race heritage, but it’s much more accessible than you’d think
A ski made for the technical backcountry lines of the Rockies
This accessible all-mountain tool for ladies earned high marks in versatility and quickness
The runner-up in the women’s all-mountain category is a universal crowd pleaser
A true frontside ski made for all levels of skiers to improve their carving prowess
An approachable frontside ski perfect for groomer rippers who aren't afraid to play off-piste on the same ski
It’s not the lightest backcountry option out there, but if you’re plowing through backcountry crud, this is the ski you want underfoot
A no-nonsense ski for ladies who don’t shy away from big mountain lines
According to seasoned ski gear testers, these are the most functional and comfortable brain buckets of the year
If you’re looking for a confidence-inspiring teaching tool to help you level up, give this ski a try
These all-mountain skis have a little more underfoot, more rocker, and more fun in powder
It’s built for deep snow, but you’d be surprised by its versatility
If you like playful powder planks (who doesn’t), check out this energetic ski
Super-stable planks for strong skiers who know how to steer a ski
A ski that likes to stay on-piste for skiers who like to do the same
This ski offers an impressive balance between flotation and power
This new addition to the all-mountain category impressed with its balance of skills
The runner-up in the women’s powder category is a force to be reckoned with
These narrower sticks may have a penchant for carving, but they also like to play in the bumps
We had ten testers with 96 Birkie finishes help us identify the top-performing skate and classic skis for all disciplines and ability levels
Featuring tech inserts, rubber soles, and hike-modes with plenty of range of motion, these boots make short work of long, uphill slogs
Allow us to introduce you to this scrappy brand and its supremely fun all-mountain ski
This fast and light backcountry ski doesn’t skimp on downhill performance
Truly a ski for everyone, in all conditions, wherever you ski
Glen Plake’s first ever signature model is a backcountry tool that skis like Glen Pake
It’s not a backcountry powder plank, but it sure is quick in steep, technical terrain
These skis are party in the front, business underfoot, and designed to charge the whole mountain
This quick and reliable backcountry ski for ladies gets the job done on all but the deepest of days
When the fluff turns to crud, this is the ski you want underfoot
A lightweight free-touring ski with a moderate waist, the Escaper W 97 Nano is a versatile backcountry ski for ladies who charge no matter the conditions
We challenge you to find a more playful and responsive backcountry ski than this
This year’s category winner makes everyone who skis it feel like a star
This ski was voted the most playful ski among this year’s crop of women’s all-mountain skis
Power and precision are the name of the game with this tried and true favorite
Carv’s digital coaching software uses insoles with pressure sensors to give you real-time feedback. But can it really help first-timers improve?
Despite decades of advanced-level experience, I was surprised at how much I learned from Carv’s digital ski coach
No, you can’t toss the Essential in your curbside bin. But 75 percent of it can be broken down at the brand’s factory.
Montana-based Peak Ski Company introduces a new line of direct-to-consumer products featuring newly developed technology
Backpacking when the weather forecast is anything but optimal can be intimidating, but with some modifications to your kit, you can turn it into an enjoyable four-season activity
Because they’ve saved me more than a few times—and they can do the same for you
Enjoy riding frozen waves more than ever with these items
The narrowest ski in the new Fischer Ranger series represents an entirely new direction for the brand
Hint: It depends on where you ski, what you ski, and how you ski. Outside associate gear editor Kelly Klein breaks it down.
Getting through airports is a far easier proposition with the Thule RoundTrip
The professional skier says long grips help him save energy and avoid injury in the backcountry
On snow as in life, it’s important not to look like a bozo, and for new skiers, handling long, clunky boards is the original challenge. Ignore the hecklers—there’s more than one way to do it right.
Figuring out how to best equip and dress yourself when you’re just starting this sport can feel overwhelming. We’re here to help.
Vasu Sojitra lost his right leg as a baby, and Patrick Halgren lost his left at 23. When the two met and realized their feet were the same size, they've traded shoes ever since.
Boot fitting is equal parts art and science, and a little magic
Eddie Bauer’s award-winning Flyline outerwear was designed from the ground up for hard charging
Seasoned backcountry skier Jake Urban shares his kit for touring
We only have room for two powder skis in our print issue, but there are so many more worth your consideration
With a few specific products, paired with clothes you already own, you’re on your way to a rip-roaring good time
How do we decide which snowboards earn coveted slots in our Winter Buyer’s Guide? Take a virtual tram lap with a few of our Utah testers.
We only have room for two pairs in our print issue, but there are many more skis worthy of your attention
Only two pairs made the cut for print, but there are many more you should know about
With these nuggets of knowledge, you’ll be better equipped to enjoy your upcoming ski season
Only the very best makes it into print. But there are some pretty great runners-up you should know about, too.
Make like a hare in any conditions
Lids that let you push your limits
There were so many good boards this year that it was hard to pick just a few for print. Here are the others our testers loved.
These shred-slippers mean business
A kit to keep you protected in the mountains
Gear up to test your speed limit
Even the runner-up hikers from this year’s test are pretty great
Testers like eight boots, but we only had room for six. Here’s an all-around boot and a women’s powder-chasing boot that almost made the cut.
Kit upgrades for the climb and the descent
In a lineup of touring packs, this boot bag and small daypack didn't make the cut, but they're still well worth your attention
These haulers can handle any winter mission