Featured Image: Gabe Rovick
Whether you’re gearing up for your very first powder day or you’ve been hunting fresh tracks for years, having the right equipment is crucial for making the most of Ullr’s blessings. From playful, rockered skis and high-visibility goggle lenses, to technical outerwear and everything in between, these top ten items will enable you to slay the pow with confidence.
1. Ultimate Flotation // Atomic Bent Chetler 120
Designed by freeski savant Chris Benchetler and beloved by the Atomic Freeski Team, this classic, surfy and playful pow ski has undergone a transformation for 2024-25. Boasting a reduced weight of 1,800 grams per ski (184 cm), it’s also become a bit stiffer than previous iterations. Three-dimensional HRZN Tech tips and tails increase surface area, enhancing playfulness and delivering surfy stability no matter the conditions. The girthy 120 plank is ready to tackle first-chair powder mornings while easily maintaining prowess in late-day, choppy snow. From supremely deep freeride lines to backcountry booters with plentiful powder landings, the widest offering of the Bent family is ready and waiting for your deep snow exploits.
2. Precision Vision // Smith 4D MAG Goggles
Clear visibility can be hard to come by on a pow day but the 4D MAG provides unparalleled clarity thanks to Smith’s ChromaPop lens technology, which boosts contrast on those low-light mornings. The brand’s BirdsEye Vision provides a 25-percent increase in your overall field of view when, compared to other spherical lenses from Smith, and the quick and secure lens-change system makes it easy to swap lenses when light conditions change drastically.
3. Optimum Protection // Smith Vantage Helmet
For those who want maximum protection, the Vantage helmet delivers with its Aerocore construction and Koroyd technology. This open-cell design provides enhanced impact resistance while optimizing airflow and comfort. The BOA FS360 fit system helps you dial in the perfect fit and Smith’s AirEvac vents integrate seamlessly with goggles to prevent fogging. The combination of all this tech provides a blend of safety, comfort, and style.
4. Warm Digits // Hestra Fall Line Gloves
Tried and true, this glove boasts the technical features that Hestra is known for and tucks them under a new, navy and brown colorway. Wrapped in cowhide leather, the Fall Line glove features a removable liner made of polyester fiber, dubbed G-loft insulation. This quick-drying liner breathes well, compresses easily and is machine washable—everything a skier needs. One of our favorite features, however, is the outseam construction, which transfers the bulk of material away from your fingers to keep the inside smooth and comfy for all-day wear. A short, neoprene cuff, with Velcro closure, cinches down for a seamless layering system and a carabiner loop keeps the gloves accessible on a pack or harness.
5. High Performance Footwear // Salomon Men’s S/Pro Supra BOA 110 Boots
The S/Pro Supra BOA 110 is perfect for skiers looking for high performance features and customizable comfort. This boot is made with a custom HD shell, ExoWrap construction and a BOA fit system that tightens in a cylindrical fashion to distribute pressure evenly over the instep and top of the foot. It features a customizable 100-106 mm last, GripWalk soles for reliable traction and My CustomFit 4D Sport liner for a cushy layer of comfort.
6. Solid Foundation // Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Crew
A technical base layer is the best foundation for a warm day on the hill. The Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Crew features moisture-wicking and insulating properties that keep you dry and warm as you work through the deep stuff. Made from 100-percent Merino wool, it’s available in men’s and women’s fits for maximum versatility and ultimate comfort.
7. Protection from the Elements // Helly Hansen Outerwear
Braving deep, cold, winter conditions calls for high-quality outerwear and the heritage brand Helly Hansen knows more than a thing or two about protection from the elements. Their gear offers a wide variety of waterproof, windproof, and breathable options that can withstand any weather. Women should look to the Alphelia Ski Jacket and the Helly Hansen Women’s Legendary Insulated Bib. For men, we recommend the Alpha 4.0 jacket paired with the Legendary Insulated bib for ultimate warmth.
8. Elevation Gain // Black Diamond Glidelite Mohair Mix Climbing Skins
If your preferred powder day ritual involves a mission through the backcountry, these climbing skins from Black Diamond are a must. Made with a blend of mohair and nylon, they’re lightweight, packable and deliver excellent grip in all conditions. The STS tail system provides ample adjustability, while the durable tip attachment fits a variety of ski shapes. Essential for backcountry enthusiasts who need reliable skins on their side.
9. Smart Stats // Garmin Forerunner 265S Smartwatch
With advanced GPS functions, weather info, heart rate monitoring and even a sleep tracker, the Forerunner 265S provides all the insights you need to optimize your day on the mountain. An AMOLED display ensures a clear view, even in bright conditions, and the battery lasts up to 15 days in smartwatch mode, ensuring you won’t run out of power halfway through your adventure.
10. Hydration & Storage // CamelBak Powderhound 12 Snowpack
The Powderhound 12 is designed for all-day lift laps and in-bounds boot packs to the freshest lines of the day. The 12-liter design is great for carrying an extra layer, snacks and up to 70 ounces of water in the bladder. Camelbak also took the extra step of insulating the bladder tube with the Therminator™ Harness to prevent freezing on those mid-winter days.
With these 10 essentials, you’ll be ready to take on any pow day this season. Looking for more gear? Check out sunandskisports.com.
