SEIRUS MAGNEMASK
It’s the magnetic seams that are the key design element in making the Seirus Magnemask unique. A snug fit that allows good breathability and non-interference with goggles is expected in a mask, but when you do slow down your speed and are able to expose your face to the elements, simply pull down the Magnemask that protects your chin, cheeks and nose. Then, when you’re exiting the gondola or upper chalet and you’re ready to scream down another groomer in -20 temps, just pop it back in place and give ’er. Good facial warmth in frigid temps can relax your whole body and make an otherwise shivering ski day comfortable and full. Combo hinged headliner, $90, combo scarf, $80. seirus.com
XSPEX RECON – MAG
In a crowded ski shop marketplace it’s nice to find stylin’ Canadian-engineered product like eyewear from XSPEX. One of several new goggle models this season is the Recon – Mag ($249), which uses an Italian dual anti-fog cylindrical Spektra lens with Magnetx magnetic quick-lens-change technology as well as a triple-foam layer for a tight and comfy all-day fit. It’s also magnetically paired with an (optional) ergo-designed detachable Buff for fast laps or long runouts on cold days. Beyond the lifetime warranty bonus: extra night/whiteout lens included! xspex.ca
VAUDE BACK BOWL
One of the world’s most environmentally friendly outdoor companies with the highest fair wage standards, the 100 per cent family-owned Vaude is one of those cool German companies where everything it makes seems to require a second look, including its backpacks. The Back Bowl in 22-litre ($200) or 30-litre ($230) versions, for instance, are two well-designed compact ski-touring packs with all the right features, including a choice of diagonal or A-frame ski carry, clean and dry back-access compartment with quick-access safety compartment on the front in eco-friendly snow-shedding water-repellent Eco Finish made without PFCs, soft goggle pocket, dual-position helmet carry, ice axe and kitchen sink gear straps. What we found super handy was an easy and practical glove or toque holder on the ErgoShape shoulder strap so you can post selfies easier without slowing down the queue skinning up. vaude.ca
QWIXSKINZ ERIC GUAY SPECIAL EDITION
Honouring a legendary career, the Erik Guay Special Edition Race Suit by Calgary-based Qwixskinz ($650, $425 youth) will at the minimum inspire a PB out of you, or hopefully win you the club championship. Designed by our most decorated alpine ski racer, the slashes of yellow and maple leaf are a tribute to Guay. Indeed, all his career podium finishes are superimposed into the suit’s background, including his 2017 St. Moritz World Championships gold and silver medal races—skied in his Qwizskinz suit. qwixskinz.com/clubsuits
DYNAFIT TLT SUPERLITE 2.0
Dynafit has been leading the charge on touring bindings built for expedition-style descents for more than 30 years, and for those who agree a gram on your feet can feel like a kilogram in your pack, the TLT Superlite 2.0 ($599) should seriously lighten your load into the backcountry (or anywhere you carry your skis, for that matter). At a measly 175 grams, it probably weighs in close to your cell phone. (A typical all-mountain binding might weigh 2 or 3 kg in comparison.) Two versions offer DIN 5-10 or 6-12, both with dual height adjustments, and extra accessories include a Guide Leash 35g or removable Speed SuperLite Brake 85g (in three widths: 75-105mm). Combine a speed touring binding with a Dynafit touring boot (see more backcountry gear next issue) and you’ll be dancing up the skin track. dynafit.com
DUER WEATHERPROOF DENIM
For those who still remember, skiing in jeans in the 1970s was one of our dumber fashion moments; too bad Duer wasn’t around to help. The Vancouver-based technical streetwear apparel purveyor has designed the perfect pant for us in its Weatherproof Denim ($199). Already known for its high-stretch, light and comfy Performance Denim fabric, Duer lined it for us with a soft and breathable membrane that keeps out snow, slush, water and wine. Technical bits include Spandex for stretch, Coolmax for temperature regulation, Silvadur for odour-neutralization, reflective cuffs for cycling as well as the Duer signature gusset. duer.ca
INTUITION DREAMLINER
If your favourite-ever boots aren’t feeling like that first great season, you may simply need new liners and there’s no bigger expert on the subject than Intuition Sports of Vancouver. A popular classic for all levels of skiers is the Dreamliner ($247) with tongue and cuff reinforcements, soft calf relief panel and a roomy toe box ensuring the correct ratio of comfort, warmth and performance returns after the factory liners are packed out. Available in three volumes, the Dreamliner includes two pairs of removable foam insoles and can be skied right out of the box, heat moulded at home or fit by a pro. intuitionliners.com
