Gear Shed: December Picks

ML staff and gear partners highlight the latest boards, hoodies, vests, avy packs, skis and gloves, in alpha order.

Women’s Burton Feelgood Camber Snowboard 

“The Feelgood (with the StepOn Re:flex binding and Limelight Step On Boot) was an entirely new setup for me in 2022 and it was a total game-changer. The pop of this board is incredible and its ability to carve in all conditions is amazing. The convenience and performance of the Step On setup can’t be underestimated. For those riding with a group and used to lagging behind to strap in, the efficiency of the step-on setup is magical with no performance loss at all. The boot’s built-in heel straps mean heel lift is a non-issue and the quick release means you can coast into the lift line and unbuckle quickly. I am beyond excited to get back on this setup for the winter.” –ML Contributing Editor Allison Kennedy Davies

Maloja TozzagoM. Vest

From Maloja’s Glide & Ride collection—suitable for both nordic skiing and biking—the TozzagoM. is made of windproof, warming and lightweight Bikestretch WB. We like everything about this versatile and packable layer, especially the two-way zip, so you can open it from the bottom up for on-demand ventilation. Buy Maloja in Canada at www.thelasthunt.com

MiCON LiTRIC Avalanche Airbag

A huge leap forward for backcountry safety, the MiCON LiTRIC Avalanche Airbag is your new go-to pack. The bright minds at Arc’teryx and Ortovox have spent the last 12 years designing and refining this bag to be as lightweight and easy to use as possible, with an electric system that you can deploy multiple times and recharge, even out in the backcountry. Available in three sizes. www.arcteryx.com 

ML Winter Sport Eco Hoodie

Meet our premium Eco Hoodie made of organic and recycled materials. With its unisex comfortable fit, front pouch pocket, and double-layered hood, the hoodie is a classic streetwear piece that can be styled with multiple ensembles. www.mountainlifemedia.ca/store 

Nordica Unleashed 98

Equally at home exploring deep snow, bumps, and trees, Nordica’s Unleashed 98 (available in men’s and women’s models) is the perfect daily driver for adventurous skiers. To amplify your confidence, it pairs a wood core with carbon and a sheet of terrain-specific metal. This design boosts edge hold and dampens vibrations for an exceptionally smooth ride. Its rocker profile thrives in any terrain and all conditions while the traditional camber underfoot offers exceptional response and plenty of pop. Combine all this with an early-rise tip and tail for additional floatation and you’ll never want to leave the slopes. www.nordica.com

Patagonia R2 TechFace Jacket

The women’s and men’s Patagonia R2 TechFace Jacket (also available as a Hoody) is a classic go-to mid-layer. The outside of this stretchy and breathable tech fleece resists wind, light precip and abrasion and slides easily under a shell. As always with Patagonia, it’s Fair Trade Certified sewn, and the plush, high-pile fleece interior (made of polyester from recycled pop bottles) keeps you toasty. www.monodsports.com 

Swany X-PLORER Glove

A winter glove with anti-smell lining, you say? Count us in! Swany’s X-Plorer Glove (for men and women) is made to handle anything winter can throw at you. The extra-warm Triplex Alpha insulation and stem finger construction keep fingertips warm while remaining waterproof and breathable. Handwarmer pockets, pre-curved fingers and full leather palms come standard on these timeless beauties. www.swanycanada.com 

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