You love him. He loves skiing.
Whether or not you also ski, finding a gear gift for him can quickly prove intimidating. There’s just so much stuff. He’s just so particular. Or maybe he just never coherently communicates what he needs or wants.
Whether he errs on the wild side or religiously sticks with that jacket you got him 20 years ago or blows you off to chase powder, we’ve got you covered.
And because you’re reading this gift guide, we know he loves you too.
For: The Trendsetter
He’s the personable one, the one cracking jokes and grabbing you a beer and laughing at himself. Those bright colors and that distinctive style mean you never lose him on the mountain. Get him a gift that keeps his party rolling.
Patagonia Synchilla Snap T Pullover Jacket
The Synchilla has been a staple of Patagonia’s line for years. It’s cozy, practical, and durable, and it’s offered in enough funky patterns and colors to stand out (see Glass Blue) winter after winter.
The frameless, wide-vision design of the Lid maximizes your peripherals on the mountain. It also makes a statement—especially with the pink ethylene strap and grey/purple mirror.
The ARV 96 has been a favorite among all-mountain/freestyle skiers for several years now, and the 2018 version offers the same ultra-fun, versatile performance dressed in the ski’s boldest topsheet design yet.
For: The Traditionalist
No frills, just time-tested reliability. He skis hard and doesn’t know or care how to share his photos on Instagram. His commitment to skis with metal that hold great edges runs steadfast as his often-concealed feelings.
The Enforcer blends new-age tech with classic performance. There’s rocker in the tip and tail to make the ski quick and maneuverable, while two sheets of metal and healthy camber underfoot offer stiffness and carve-ability to satisfy even the most old-school rippers.
Did we mention camber? The MX 84 skis smooth and fast, demanding that you keep up. Built with an unapologetic full-camber profile, it’s arguably the best on-trail ski on the market for aggressive skiers.
Durable and insulated, with performance-focused extras like a removable hood and stowable neck gaiter, the Foundation could be his new 20-year jacket.
For: The Adventurer
If he hasn’t skied Japan yet, he won’t stop talking about it. Places like Silverton, Revelstoke, and Chamonix also top his extensive skication list. He loves skiing with you, or at least telling you all about his adventures, but he also loves disappearing into the backcountry or scheming up cat skiing trips.
At 97mm underfoot with a perfect balance of stiffness, skiability, and float in a lightweight package, the Camox Freebird is a top-shelf touring ski, made for the backcountry-oriented adventurer in your life.
The Rustler will be his tool-of-choice for all the aforementioned getaways. It’s wide enough to float Japow but still narrow, stiff, and light enough to negotiate tight, steep chutes. Ultimate versatility for the big-mountain powder seeker.
However long he’s been chasing powder in out-of-bounds environments, he needs a beacon, probe, and shovel to stay safe. Are you gravitating to the backcountry as well? Get each other a rescue package, and practice using the tools.