By the folks who are already scraping wax and counting storm days
The countdown is real. Boards are tuned, skis are lined up, and our tailgate’s already looking like a gear locker. But before the season kicks, here’s the real list of tech and non-tech gear that’ll actually make a difference once we’re in the thick of it. No fluff - just what we think you’ll actually benefit from:
Goggles With Swappable Lenses (and Bonus HUD If You Nerdy)
Flat light days separate the vets from the tourists. Quick-swap lenses mean you’re never stuck riding blind when the storm rolls in. If you want to go full geek, heads-up goggles are out now - speed, vert, music controls - yeah, they’re pricey, but if you’re stacking laps, it’s rad not to be fumbling for your phone. Check out the Anon M4, Smith I/O Mag, or Goodr Snow G.
Bluetooth Helmet Audio
Music in your lid without cords = life upgrade. But the real win? Having control at the tap of a button without fumbling for your phone or taking off your gloves. Activate Siri, make calls - or don't, merge calls for group comms, and enjoy the concert in your helmet while you get the turns in. Insert our very own CHIPS XV Helmet Audio, the latest in Helmet Audio tech from the OGs in the category. And with the new customizable EQ function, you can listen your way, all day, no matter what the soundtrack - or conference call… shhh - secrets safe with us.
Action Cams That Don’t Blow in Flat Light
Forget shaky helmet-cam edits from 20 teens. The new rigs have stabilization so good your sketchy lines look pro, plus sensors that actually handle storm days. Hook up to your phone in the lot, and you’re posting before you’ve even hit après. Our current fav is the DJI action 5, but that insta360 game does have its perks.
Beacons, Shovel, Probe (Don’t Cut Corners Here)
If you’re stepping into the backcountry, this is the trinity. Newer beacons are faster, clearer, and idiot-proof, which matters when things go sideways. And yeah, airbag packs aren’t just for “pros” anymore—lighter, cleaner, and honestly worth the peace of mind. Check out the full line from BCA, and if you're feeling fancy we also love the stuff at Mammut.
Heated Gloves and Socks (Game Changer, No Joke)
Old heated gear used to be clunky trash. Now? Slim batteries, all-day charge, and they actually hold up in wet snow. Perfect for chairlift marathons or long cold tours. Outdoor Research for the win here on gloves! Not only are they more affordable, the fit is best in class with the least bulk. And while we haven’t officially gone full geezer, we've heard the Lenzs socks can't be beat in this category.
GPS Watches (Track or It Didn’t Happen)
Vertical feet, laps, zones—you can track it all. The new ones even sync with avy beacons or let you drop pins for that hidden stash. Plus, they flex nicely when you tell your buddy, “Yeah, I stacked 30K vert today.” Suunto v Garmin, it's a battle as old as well… time.
Non-Tech Essentials (aka The Stuff That Keeps You Alive and Smiling)
Merino Base Layers
Forget the old cotton long johns. Merino keeps you warm, breathes when you’re sweating on a bootpack, and doesn’t reek like death by day three of a trip.
A Legit Pair of Mitts
Gloves are fine till it nukes. Mitts keep you warmer, end of story. Pro tip, get a pair with liners you can swap out when they’re soaked.
Pocket Sized Multi-Tool
Binding strap snaps, buddy’s stance feels off, you want to tweak something in the lot—don’t be that person asking around. Keep a compact multi-tool handy.
A Thermos That Doesn’t Leak
Sounds basic, but hot coffee (or soup, or… whatever) on a cold mid-mountain day hits harder than tech goggles ever will. Get one that seals tight so your pack doesn’t smell like latte forever.
THATS OUR TOP 10 RECS… FOR NOW
You don’t need every flashy gadget on the shelf, but a mix of smart tech and tried-and-true basics will make your season smoother, safer, and just plain better. Gear doesn’t make the rider, but being dialed means more laps, less hassle, and more energy to chase storms. See you in the liftline, we’ll be the ones vibin’ to our personal helmet concert.
Go Forth and Play,
Outdoor Tech
