1. For the first time, Canada’s Mountain Equipment Co-op has launched its inaugural alpine ski collection this autumn with six jackets and four pants specifically targeted at resort skiers and boarders. MEC says its men’s Syncronis and women’s Sweet Shot (both $525) are the most premium jackets MEC has ever made. Diamond-quilted 850-fill down throughout the body combines with PrimaLoft Gold Synthetic insulation, sealed in a stylish three-layer Gore-Tex breathable fabric. Also in MEC’s new alpine ski collection is the Men’s Steepside jacket, right, with freeride influences ($280) and the women’s Fine Line insulated but slimming double-layered pants ($185). MEC.ca
2. Whether you’re planning on using a BC Link two-way UHF radio ($199) to help in a backcountry rescue, to give your partner(s) regular advice for the camera lens or, most importantly, to share info about the safest route up or down, it’s simply not a tool that can be compared with your “no-service” phone. Li-ion USB battery, and an easy to use splashproof and clip-on mic are a few of the many enviable features. BackCountryAccess.com
3. Find a sugar-mummy and go all in with Peak Performance’s Heli Vertical Suit, the ultimate freeride Gore-Tex shell and pant combo in relaxed fit. Unique shell features include a stretchy flexible c-knit Gore fabric on the back and boq adjustable hood ($900). Keep your trou in place with a fixed elastic bib-like waist gaiter, double leg ventilation, oversized easy-access pockets and more design technology than your car ($750). PeakPerformance.com/ca
4. New for the 2016 ski season, Bollé’s Highwood ($139) offers wrap-around frames with side temple vents to prevent fogging, polarized protection and treated to be oelophobic (oil protection) and hydrophobic (snowy wipeout protection). Bollé.com
5. Zeal’s rugged Tracker ($149) sunglasses use e-Ilume polarization that will cut the sharpest glare, whether it’s off a glacier in the Alps or Formica tabletop when lunching outside. The Z-Resin plant-based frame uses ProFlex rubber to make it slip-free. True outdoor colours are enhanced, not perverted. ZealOptics.com
