The ten Finest Colorado Presents for Skiers and Snowboarders

Few issues excite skiers and snowboarders greater than a deep day on the mountain. Since you possibly can’t reward your favourite powderhound a foot of freshies, go for the subsequent smartest thing: candy gear. Chances are high, they have already got the necessities—skis or a board and boots—so shock them with picks they received’t splurge on themselves (like a comfy layer to toss on for après) or that they haven’t upgraded shortly (equivalent to a brand new pair of goggles with crisp lenses). Right here, our favourite picks from native manufacturers and makers.

Colorado skiers and riders understand how unpredictable the climate might be within the Rockies. That’s the place Zeal Optics’ Lookout goggles ($319) are available: They mix high-end specs with low-key type that carry out it doesn’t matter what the situations. The Boulder firm’s cylindrical-style specs characteristic Zeal’s Statement Deck Expertise, which interprets to a slight downward tilt within the lens that helps block reflections and permits for a wider visual field. Plus, the lenses might be seamlessly swapped and locked into place—although you received’t have to try this too usually should you go for one of many photochromic lenses that transition primarily based on gentle situations. This season, Zeal additionally launched a pair of Lookouts within the Haa Aani assortment, which options art work from Tlingit artist Crystal Worl. Out there on-line

Denver’s Flylow is ubiquitous on the slopes, and for good purpose. Among the many model’s plethora of high quality ski and snowboard attire, the gloves and mitts handle to face out, significantly the Wolverine Gloves ($120). Waterproofed full leather-based surrounds the skin; recycled Greenloft artificial insulation provides a layer of heat; cozy, wool-blended material traces the inside; and neoprene cuffs seal out any snow whereas tucking comfortably into jacket sleeves. So that you—and your recipient—can relaxation assured that these gloves will final via a number of ski seasons. Out there on-line

Ibex isn’t a brand new model, however it’s new to Colorado. After it was offered in 2018, the corporate was revived by a brand new proprietor who moved it to the journey hub of Nederland—the place folks recognize the utility of premium merino wool outside attire. The Nomad Joggers ($170, out there for men and women) make the right post-ski, lounging layer, whether or not you’re taking a load off at house or in a hut deep within the backcountry. They’re made nearly fully from merino wool, in order that they’re heat, gentle, odor-resistant, and extra sustainable than artificial options. Plus, they arrive in a number of colours, so you’ll find simply the proper match in your favourite shredder. Out there on-line

Avalanche security gear is crucial for backcountry skiers and riders, and also you want a rugged pack by which to hold all of it. Osprey, primarily based in southwest Colorado, is understood for its sturdy and practical packs, together with ones designed particularly for off-piste day excursions. The men’s Soelden 32 ($180) and women’s Sopris 30 ($175) sport sufficient area to carry gear and mandatory layers, whereas remaining smooth and dispersing the load comfortably. A entrance pocket is devoted for snow security gear and instruments, like a probe and shovel; there’s a helmet harness and a goggle pocket, important options if you’re skinning to secret powder stashes; and exterior straps carry skis or a splitboard with ease when it’s time besides up couloirs. Out there on-line

Some folks may not be stoked to discover a pair of department-store cotton socks of their stocking, however a high-performing pair of ski socks? Now that’s a welcome current. Steamboat Springs–primarily based Smartwool makes wool-blended socks with a technical match and light-weight padding so your toes keep cozy on each journey. The Targeted Cushion model ($28) is particularly designed for the slopes, with its over-the-calf size, considerate cushioning zones, and breathability. Tip: The corporate makes snowboard-specific versions, too, that are just a little thicker. Out there on-line

Ideally, backcountry skiers and snowboarders have already got the avalanche necessities trifecta (that may be a beacon, probe, and shovel). However probably the most underrated items of drugs—and one they might be missing—is a set of radios to speak with ski companions. The Mountain Radio ($110 every) from Denver’s Rocky Talkie clips to a backpack strap with out impeding motion and might be paired with a hand mic. The communicator additionally has a spread of as much as 5 miles, relying on the terrain, and its controls are manageable even with gloves on. Out there on-line

Searching for one thing splurge-worthy? Go for a jacket. Nothing ruins a day on the hill like wind and moist snow chilling you out a lot you don’t need to take one other lap. The North Face is aware of methods to make sturdy outerwear, and its Verbier GTX ($700, out there for men and women) is the Denver firm’s top-end freeride shell. It’s made with a burly wind- and waterproof Gore-Tex material that may stand as much as the deepest powder days with out wetting out or permitting the wind to chew, all whereas remaining breathable. The jacket’s sharp appears are matched by a loaded characteristic set, together with spacious pockets, seam-sealed zippers, and a smooth built-in powder skirt. Out there on-line and on the North Face shops

Vail-based Ski City All-Stars is a small hat maker that caters to the ski group with its designs (the trucker hats, for instance, characteristic cheeky phrases like “Après Ski Teacher”). However to pair type and heat, go for the Red Square ($65). The quilted, trucker-style hat has convertible ear flaps which can be lined with a tender corduroy material. A wide range of colours, from vibrant security orange to subtler earth tones, means there’s an possibility for anybody who needs to rock the basic ski bum look. Out there on-line

Colorado has a brand new contestant within the micro-grid fleece hoodie recreation: SkyGoat is a small attire model primarily based in Summit County with deep roots within the ski group (Ram Mikulas, the founder and sole worker, spent years working within the snowsports trade earlier than he started stitching fleeces). The Camp Hoodie ($99 for men and women, $59 for youth) is a straightforward and cushty layer fabricated from super-soft, color-blocked fleece. It’s technical sufficient to layer when driving chairlifts or motoring up the pores and skin monitor on a chilly day, but informal sufficient to wear down for beers afterward. Out there on-line and at native retailers, like Limber Grove, 222 S. Essential St., Breckenridge

Assume the skier or boarder in your life has all of the gear they might presumably want? Present them one thing that highlights their love of winter. Utilizing largely downed beetle-kill pine bushes as his canvas, Leadville artist Peter Frykholm crafts 3D carvings primarily based on topographic maps. One in every of his collections options ski resorts round North America, together with many within the Centennial State. Snag a pre-made carving ($90) of Eldora Mountain or Arapahoe Basin, or, should you’ve acquired the time and price range, fee a customized piece of any map you want. Out there on-line and at City on a Hill Coffee & Roastery, 508 Harrison Ave., Leadville