Gift-giving season is here, and a little special something can go a long way, whether it’s a new base layer in a fun color or a cozy winter shoe to slip on after a long day cruising the groomers.
This winter, new technology aims to make long days on the slopes more comfortable. A few examples include Seirus’ new heat-insulation layers to beat the cold, Smith’s new Snowday kids goggle, and Gore-Tex’s new ePE membrane debuts in several glove brands.
Here are some ideas to help with holiday shopping for your favorite skier:
Give the gift of performance with BOA’s new Alpine Ski Boot solution. The boots use a BOA dial to adjust fit instead of buckles and is designed to wrap the boot more uniformly closed. According to a study by BOA Performance Fit Lab, the technology results in getting to your edge 6 percent faster. This is said to result in a 10 percent improvement in the rate of force production at turn initiation for better overall performance. The BOA Fit System debuts this season on K2, Salomon, Atomic and Fischer models and aims to give intermediate and advanced skiers a better fit. www.boafit.com
Get your gear organized with Thule’s RoundTrip boot bags, available in three different sizes including a backpack and duffel version starting at $130. Designed to fit boots, helmet and goggles, a padded pocket protects goggle lenses during travel and a back-panel standing mat can be removed and used as a pad for putting boots on anywhere. The Thule RoundTrip duffel ($170) is great for longer road trips since there is additional space for apparel plus a removable dry bag to stow wet gear. 
The just-launched Gregory Verte is the brand’s first resort-specific ski pack, featuring a chairlift-friendly design with minimal straps and quick-access side pockets for chairlift snacks. It also can carry skis or a snowboard for uphill hiking and features the new CloudControl flexible hipbelt for uninhibited movement while cruising down. A snow shedding backpanel prevents snow build-up. The pack comes in two sizes: Verte 12 $110; Verte 18 $150.
No need to skimp on kids’ gear as Smith offers some quality new products at great prices. Smith’s Snowday goggle ($50) has the Spherical Carbonic Xlens for distortion-free optics and impact resistance. It comes in a variety of strap colors and lens finishes including some mirrored versions. It has storm-sealing protection and a wide frame for better peripheral views. The Scout Jr. Helmet ($105) has MIPS multidirectional impact protection to help protect the head area during a fall. It’s designed to fit different head shapes with ear pads that can be removed. Certified for snow or bike, there are multiple vents to enhance fog-free performance and climate control. 
Rossignol’s cozy Chalet Shoes ($99) are ideal for après-ski down times after a long day on the slopes. The new slip-on design has a fold-down heel that makes it easy to get on and off, while the all-terrain grip provides confidence when walking on sketchy ground. The slippers have a cushioned footbed and wool lining with light insulation. A water-repellent finish sheds light rain and snow in case you get caught in nasty weather.
Gore-Tex has expanded its new ePE membrane into more glove brands this season including Reusch, Burton, Dakine, Zanier and Adidas. The Dakine Baron Gore-Tex Mitt ($120) for women uses four-way stretch soft shell/leather with PrimaLoft insulation and a wool-blend lining. It features a full Gore-Tex ePE lining insert with Gore Grip technology for dexterity while keeping it waterproof and breathable. 
Aleck’s new Nunchucks ($130) are wireless audio systems for skiers and snowboarders that slide easily into helmets. Featuring a multi-day battery life and a glove-friendly design, these earbuds also have a 40-mm titanium driver design, optimized for crisp highs and powerful bass. 
