The Scarpa Maestrale RS Alpine Touring Boot offers a relatively lightweight feel going uphill with a sturdy ride going downhill, making them an admired boot for many backcountry skiers looking for reliability both in and out of bounds and in all types of snow. This boot offers an impressive range of motion and customizable fit, with well-loved liners that offer warmth and comfort throughout the day, and a sturdy sole that bootpacks as well as it skis. Although some durability issues have been raised on the shell and the walk-mode function, Scarpa has set out to address these issues, and many users have stayed loyal throughout, still preferring the ease and sturdiness of the Maestrale RS.
The Mammut Refillable Airbag System Cartridge is a convenient, easy-to-fill, and high-quality option. The challenges in finding refill points depends on your location, and may be difficult to find in Europe, but the standard fitting allows for a higher chance of finding a refill point. Overall, the high-quality build and versatility make this a good option.
Yakima’s JetStream Base Rack Bars are a sleek, aerodynamic way to carry all your gear on top of your car, SUV or pick-up. The extruded aluminum construction is lightweight and sturdy, and the teardrop shape is aerodynamic. Installation is quick if you are familiar with roof mount systems, and they are compatible with a range of tower mounts and accessories.
Yakima CoreBar Base Rack Bars are roof mounted bars that securely carry your bicycles, kayak, cargo box or whatever else you need to haul on your roof. They are aerodynamic and quieter than other roof racks, but you may hear more noise than you might hope, especially over 35 to 45 miles per hour. The rack bars are sturdy, durable and relatively easy to install.
The Salomon Warden MNC 13 Ski Binding is an adjustable, durable, and secure option that is suitable for skiers of all levels but mainly designed for beginners and intermediates who want one binding to fit all of their alpine skiing needs. The ability to fit multiple boots is what sets this binding apart from the rest, and despite being a bit more expensive, it is worth the money if you can use this binding with any of your boots for years to come.
The Yakima FatCat EVO 6 is a roof-mounted rack that is quiet, durable, and easy-to-use. While the rack may struggle to actually fit six pairs of wider skis, and becomes harder to use in extreme cold temps, overall satisfaction with the rack is pretty high, making it a good option.
The Atomic Hawx Ultra Xtd 130 Alpine Touring Boot is a stiff and durable touring boot. This is not the lightest or most flexible touring boot, but it provides terrific support for the downhill while still providing ease and comfort on the uphill.
The Sweet Protection Switcher MIPS Helmet is a breathable, adjustable, protective, and secure helmet that contains some technical features which make it suitable for a wide range of skiers and snowboarders. The ample number of vents, MIPS liner, and easy-to-use dials make this a great choice.
The Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 radio is an easy-to-use back-country communication tool . Most users report good range and glove-friendly controls, though a few reported defects. While pricier than other radios, the remote speaker microphone is compatible with BCA and other backpacks, and enables communication while the radio is safely stowed in a pack.
The Anon WM1 Goggles for women is a versatile, secure, adjustable, and stylish choice for avid skiers and snowboarders who want the option to customize their lens selection based upon the conditions. The ability to change out the lenses quickly and easily makes this a great goggle for various weather conditions on the mountain.