November 19, 2008 E-MAIL PRINT

Ski shop: What's in, what's out

by Dave Irons/

Kombi's bamboo performance shirt retails for $60. Log on to www.kombiltd.com for more information.

Kombi's bamboo performance shirt retails for $60. Log on to www.kombiltd.com for more information.

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The new ski and snowboard season brings optimism and anticipation. Time to throw out the old and ring in (at the cash register or online) the new. Technology changes everything, and colors seem to swing back and forth like a pendulum over the years. The good news is that technology isn’t just for iPhones and MP3 players. That science also means skiers and riders can stay warmer on the slopes, and newer equipment translates to improved skiing and snowboarding. Remember, a warm skier is a happy skier.

Out for this season are cold, clammy cotton undergarments. In is bamboo technology from Kombi. This blend of natural bamboo fibers, Coolmax and Spandex provides a base layer that wicks away moisture, is breathable and is warm.

Out are cold feet. In is the Hotronic FootWarmer Power Plus m4 Custom. Have these installed in your boots, and your feet can stay warm all day. Thanks to new battery and recharging technology, these boot heaters can last all day and recharge in just three hours.

Out are the days of women settling for having to be fit into boots designed for men. The Electra 10 is in the middle of a whole line of Dalbellos specifically built to fit ladies feet. Lasts molded to fit women’s feet, Adjustable Spoiler Profile and other features combine to make these models accommodate women’s foot and leg shapes.

Cold fingers are out with Gordini’s Storm Trooper glove. Gordini’s Lavawool moisture-management system combined with Megaloft insulation is the secret of this glove’s performance. Moisture is effectively wicked away from the hand, and a leather palm and thumb cap provide a secure grip on the pole. And the price is much lower than most high-performance ski gloves.

Long, narrow skis have been out for a few years, but also out is the need to have different skis for different conditions. Head’s Monster series comes in some super-wide models for powder along with some medium-width skis for more versatility. Our choice is the Monster iM 78 SW. The 78 mm waist is great for powder and off piste and still works well on the groomers. And the price includes bindings.

Dave Irons is a former ski patroller and veteran ski writer from Maine.

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