Snow Predictions + Gear Recommendations by Region
Ski season and snow predictions are unpredictable to say the least, but we can try anyway, right? Thanks to modern meteorology (crystal ballery?), we can predict (or at least, make educated guesses about) what our winter season might look like. Is it good news? Depends on where you are! To help everyone get ready for the season, we compiled season previews by region with weather forecasts, local happenings, and special gear recommendations for the ultimate Skier’s Almanac.
What’s the winter ski forecast looking like?
Meteorologists interpret the latest models as showing yet another weak La Niña forecast for this season, at least at the beginning. The uncertainty gets a little greater as you move through mid-season to spring. If you look at previous La Niñas, they typically produce patterns good for Western ski slopes.
That said, there’s a bit of uncertainty for this season with a few meddling factors. A cold Atlantic Ocean and a “strong easterly QBO”, also known as the quasi-biennial oscillation. This ski bum finds that phrase a little over my head, but thankfully, our friends at OpenSnow break down how these factors interact simply.
If you take a look at the NOAA seasonal outlook, it doesn’t look too different from last year’s La Niña forecast. Generally, you’re seeing heavier precip over the wide swath of the northern part of the country (especially near the Rockies). That’s combined with cooler temps. Further south, you get warmer temps and lower-than-average precipitation forecasted.
So, if you’re curious what an Easterly QBO means for what gear you should prioritize to make the most of this season, look no further. After all, the right tool for the job makes even the roughest conditions a good day out.
Northwest and California
Last year, La Niña turned out pretty well for this region. Crystal Mountain in Washington had a strong early season and clocked close to 400″ for the season, which is higher than the last several years. Tahoe had a solid year, and despite some downs, they wound up with a wicked deep spring. This year, the added weather patterns mean that there’s some additional uncertainty.
Previous years with this particular cocktail of features have gone either way for this region. OpenSnow is calling for slightly below average snowfall for California. But, we know California. Once you start to head one way, all of a sudden, they’re out there swimming in feet of snow while we out here in Colorado make the most of the 2 inches over two weeks. So, consider keeping those wide sticks in the quiver.
Oregon is calling for similar, but you may have seen their recent deep storm that came through. Washington is a bit of a toss-up according to the weather wizards, but we’re hopeful for recent successful seasons during La Niña winters. If you ask us, go on the wider side of things, without going too crazy.
Salomon QST 106
The redesign to the Salomon QST 106 for 25/26 amps up the charge of this big-mountain ski. You get a surprisingly damp and supportive construction for how playful this ski can be. The classic QST tip shape is intuitive, “turn-y”, and wicked surfy in soft snow. But the redesigned tail is supportive for landings and holding longer turns. This ski carves way better on trail than ever before, and feels locked in when the snow is less…edgeable. It’s the perfect wide surface area for navigating deep days, while being plenty stable for those in-between storm days.
Norrona Gore-Tex Pro Ski Jacket
We often say here at the shop, in Colorado, Gore-Tex Pro is nice, but not necessary. If you live in the PNW; however, Gore-Tex Pro makes a whole lot more sense. One of our favorite GTX Pro ski jackets is this piece from Norrona. Thoughtful and premium features make the difference, with big strategically placed pockets, the long freeride cut, and vivid colors.
Arbor El Camino
This powerful big-mountain board is stiff, stable, and powerful for hard-charging through tough snow conditions. This board from Arbor holds a sweet spot with Parabolic Camber and a slightly directional shape for soft snow. It’s engineered to be supportive on landings for exploring freeride terrain and navigating cliff hits. If steep and deep and hucking cliffs is the name of your game, the El Camino is one to look at. Plus, have you seen Jared Elston ride?
Mountain West
The upcoming La Niña could be a mixed bag for the Rockies. Idaho and Montana are looking good lumped into that cool and wet weather pattern in the northern part of the country, while New Mexico and Utah could be leaning a little warm.
Shop favorite mountain Taos is looking a little rough on the NOAA map, but historical data shows La Niña going either way. If you ask some Taos locals, two rough years in a row means a wicked follow-up year, so we’re holding out hope.
As with any snow in the Rockies, we could truly be in for anything (and maybe everything).
Line Optic 104
The Line Optic 104 is a perfect ski for crushing rock solid groomers early season, leftover pow during the midwinter, and mashed potatoes when our seasons run late into April and May. Whether you find yourself skiing mega deep snow in the Northern Rockies, or are navigating steep chutes in Taos that have seen better snow days, the Optic blends a surfy shape that pivots easily with a rock solid construction that tracks through whatever weird chop you might find.
Julbo Lightyear Goggles
These ski goggles are a match made in heaven for Rockies skiers. Photochromic lenses adjust to any light you might be dealing with. From full bluebird days to cloudy storm days, and those days where the weather doesn’t know exactly what it’s doing that day. Not to mention, these goggles have an easy vent feature where you can “pop” the lens forward to vent quickly. Perfect for releasing some heat in the lift line after a steamy long bump run.
Capita Mercury Snowboard
The Capita Mercury snowboard is designed for riders seeking all-terrain versatility, excelling in both freeride and all-mountain conditions. It provides stability and float in powder, making it ideal for big mountain lines, while also performing well on groomers, side hits, and park laps. The directional design of the Mercury offers responsiveness and control, allowing you to confidently tackle any terrain, no matter the conditions. When things could be spicy and dry, or perfectly deep, the Mercury is a good partner to have.
Colorado
Colorado gets their very own section since it’s our home base!
As with the rest of the country, we’re looking at a potential La Niña winter here. The good news? La Niña tends to be pretty good to us. We’ve had a few off years here and there, but generally La Niña turns out average to above-average snowfall. If you look back to our 22/23 season, it was sneaky good, with legendary seasons down in Wolf Creek and Crested Butte.
However, if you look at NOAA’s seasonal forecast, southern Colorado is looking on the warmer side of things. Rumor has it the San Juans might be in tough luck this year. But, that just means staying plugged into the forecast, and pulling the trigger when you see a special storm roll through.
Head Kore 100 Ti
You know we love the right around 100mm size for Colorado, and nothing ticks that versatile size for this year better than the Head Kore 100 Ti. The main reason? It feels wildly nimble and agile for the waist width. It’s responsive and quick right underfoot, making quick work of tight bump lines that even Mary Jane herself would scoff at. The platform is reliable and predictable, and the updated construction helps to quiet even the harshest snow if we haven’t seen snow in a little while.
Arc’teryx Proton Hoody
Our temperatures in Colorado can be unpredictable. Freezing in the morning, with sunny base layer skiing in the afternoon. To combat those erratic weather phenomena, throw an Arc’teryx Proton Hoody on. The insulated jacket works as a great warmer mid-layer under a ski jacket. The Proton stays warm, but is also highly breathable for high-output activities. So as you run a top to bottom back to the lodge from the freezing ridgeline to a sunny base area, you won’t overheat. The Proton is a great way to regulate your temperature, while being mega comfortable to wear. It works just as well as a backcountry touring layer, or around town during the spring and fall.
Salomon Assassin Snowboard
With a winter ahead that looks like it could bring a little bit of everything, the Salomon Assassin would be a great option for riders who like a bit of freestyle flair with their all-mountain boards. Salomon spiced up the Assassin with a longer nose and tail shape for better performance in deeper snow, giving more surface area and maneuverability when the soft snow comes around. The medium flex lets you bend and press, without losing too much power for arcing turns on firm snow. Salomon’s “quadralizer” sidecut gives you long contact length to find some solid edge hold and get up to high speeds.
Midwest
According to NOAA, the Midwest might get some powder this year. Of course, it’s coupled with above-average temperatures, so powder might be a stretch. Either way, expect more precipitation than normal, which could turn out to be more snow or more rain. Get gear that will equip you for equally for soft snow, or refrozen trails.
After last season with some unseasonably warm temperatures throughout the region, we’re hoping that Ullr sends some cooler temps your way for good snow making conditions (and maybe even some natural snow).
Volkl Mantra 88
The Mantra 88 excels in Midwest conditions with its versatile 88mm waist that handles everything from groomed hardpack to variable snow. Its metal construction and stable platform provide excellent edge grip on icy mornings while remaining nimble enough for quick turns through mixed conditions. The ski’s all-mountain design shines when Midwest resorts get surprise powder dumps, yet it won’t feel like overkill on typical firm groomers. It’s the perfect one-ski quiver for unpredictable Great Lakes skiing.
If you’re making your way up to Mount Bohemia (which is on my skier’s bucket list), check out the Revolt series from Volkl. The more playful shapes will float better in the deeper, natural lakeside snow the ski area receives. It offers some heft for pushing through heavier, wet snow, while maximizing float if you only have a couple of fresh inches to work with.
Patagonia Insulated Powder Town Ski Pants
If you deal with cold climates, one of the easiest fixes for a more comfortable day on the hill is upgrading to insulated pants. You get extra protection from sitting on a cold chairlift, or if you accidentally take a spill and are on the snow a little more than you expect. The thin layer of insulation on the Patagonia Powder Town Pants offers the perfect amount of extra warmth without making the pants bulky. They stay easy to move around in, and easy to use vents make these pants adaptable for warmer days on the hill.
Capita Indoor Survival
If rope tows and lapping the park is the name of your game during the winter, the Indoor Survival from Capita is a great choice. The true twin freestyle board is at home in the park and crusing around the mountain. A softer flex makes presses a no-brainer, and is more forgiving on landings when trying new tricks. The twin shape gives you the ultimate balance in the air when trying new spins. Right underfoot, Capita puts a titanal strip underfoot between the feet to help give you some support and “boost”.
East
The tough-as-nails, Ski the East skiers can handle anything Mother Nature throws at them. This year, the predictions are a little mixed. OpenSnow is predicting some chance for some bigger snowfall this year, making us all quiver in our ski boots for some luxurious powder days in the tight glades at Jay Peak or Killington.
Of course, the East gets their very own weather phenomenon that throws a wrench in this whole thing: Nor’easters. La Niña actually favors these weather pattern slightly, opening up the chance for heavy snowfall. It all depends on where the temperatures happen to be during that storm on whether you get snow or rain, light or heavy.
Atomic Maverick 96 CTI
The Atomic Maverick 96 CTI is an East Coast powerhouse with its 96mm waist offering versatility for variable conditions while remaining agile on firm snow. The CTI construction combines carbon, Titanal, and wood for a damp, stable ride that crushes icy groomers and hardpack. When coastal storms deliver fresh snow, the 96mm width provides enough float without sacrificing edge hold. Its responsive nature handles tight tree skiing and moguls beautifully, making it an ideal daily driver for the diverse conditions you can find out East. Bonus feature on the Maverick: the HRZN 3D tip shape provides the best bang for the buck when looking to maximize float in soft snow.
Patagonia R1 Thermal Fleece
This fleece jacket is perfect for outdoor activities and everyday wear, featuring a clean design and comfortable feel. Made from breathable and insulating fabric, it provides excellent warmth while allowing moisture to escape, ensuring comfort during physical activity. The mid-weight recycled polyester fabric is soft, traps warmth efficiently, and promotes air circulation. With a wind-resistant collar and chest pocket, plus soft fleece lining, it offers added protection on cooler days. Not to mention,
Salomon Huck Knife
The Salomon Huck Knife is an ideal choice for east coast riders seeking precision and stability in their snowboard. While designed for freestyle performance in the park, its focus on responsiveness and control makes it perfect for navigating the firm, often icy conditions typical of the East. The quad camber design provides exceptional pop and stability, allowing riders to launch confidently off jumps and side hits. The added rocker at the tip and tail, combined with the EQ Rad Sidecut, enhances maneuverability and edge hold, ensuring better control on hard-packed snow. With features like Royal Rubber Pads and Popster Booster technology, the Huck Knife delivers a smooth ride that excels at speed and precision, making it an excellent option for those looking to progress in the park and beyond.
