NZ Skier Buyers Guide 2010

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What equipment and clothing we choose can have a great deal of impact on the enjoyment of our days skiing.

This past summer I headed off to Europe. It was primarily a work trip, attending a trade show and networking for business opportunities. Skiing would have to fit in wherever possible. Out of 30 odd days in Europe, I skied just five. My brother Ben – who was traveling with me – skied only two days out of fifteen!

When this is your situation you cannot really choose what day you ski; the date is forced upon you and it is a complete lottery of what the snow conditions and weather will be. Since it is truly hopeless to try and predict, you need to be prepared. Don’t do this and you risk missing an extremely important opportunity to ski.

My brother and I left Innsbruck for St Anton really early. I knew how good it could be up there as I had spent a couple months skiing in St Anton in 2002. I wasn’t leaving anything up to chance we arrived at a truck stop just outside of the town at 7am, where we grabbed some breakfast.

The town of St Anton is a swanky euro-style place. With one main street for pedestrians on which you can find everything you need. We walked the street looking for a ski shop to get a new pair of skis mounted and to check my brother’s boots fitted my old skis for our first days skiing.

This has to be up there as one of the most important checks; having your bindings set correctly to your ability and body weight is critical. Injuries are the scourge of any skier, no one wants time off their skis. It is invaluable to get your gear checked regularly.

Once our skis were sorted we jumped back in the rental car and headed over the pass to the neighbouring resort of Stuben, which is part of the St Anton lift network. It was snowing hard as we headed up the incline, our 2WD Renault was ill prepared and we cursed AVIS for not trying harder to get us an that 4WD Audi!

We rode the chair giddy with excitement, below untouched powder lines were visible, but we couldn’t tell how deep it was. The visibility wasn’t going to be good and my brother had only dark lenses that were pretty scratched up. Seeing gives one confidence, low light lenses enhance what you can see thus allowing more time shredding and less time getting vertigo. Investing in a good pair of goggles and having two lenses will change your outlook on bad weather days.

What you wear is also vital to your enjoyment of the day. Having the expensive outerwear is pointless if the body is wrapped in cotton. Once damp, cotton will chill you to the bone for the rest of the day. Look for specific products that will keep you warm and have good wicking qualities. Merino wool is a good example and a favorite of many kiwis, especially because it doesn’t stink.

We descended into the whiteout, dropping off the cat track to dabble in the powder but we were far from satisfied when we reached the

bottom. We were close to nirvana but we just couldn’t see it. Even though I had skied here years earlier, it was difficult to distinguish the entry points to the powder fields in my memories. We retreated to the slope-side café for a coffee, Ben tearing his boots off, close to agony and groomer runs weren’t going to make it go away.

While my brother swore to buy new boots, I asked our neighboring table of three skiers who had just arrived bearing obvious signs of ski-bumness, where might be good out there in the blizzard. Funnily enough, the ski world can be an extremely small place not only had I met one of the girls in New Zealand years earlier the guy was not only a local skier but we shared many a friend from my season there years earlier and he soon took to showing us around. Nirvana!

Our newly acquainted guide dropped in. With plenty of days on the hill already he was totally in tune, ripping up the short Stuben pitch. “After you” I said, and watched as my brother dropped in. A guy so busy with his business and family life, he nearly didn’t bring his ski gear. Now he was skiing some of the best runs of his life, face shot after face shot.

Ben for the first time was skiing on a pair of rocker skis. The difference to him became obvious instantly, with only five days skiing the previous winter he was shredding like a pro. Although a naturally talented skier he would still have been out of energy and finished by noon had he not had these surfboards under his feet. It wasn’t just the ease of turning in powder either, it was the ability to ski faster and the skis versatility that had him so pumped.

To and from our fields of nirvana we had to ski a piste run, dodging our way through the euro-carvers. Now there isn’t truly one ski that can do it all, but there have been real advancements in making fatter skis perform better on piste. Rocker technology is part of that. The rocker enables the ski to pivot more easily, making for much improved on-trail turning as well as its obvious benefits off piste.

For the entire day we had seen only one other group skiing in our land of nirvana, but we had started to exhaust all of the fresh lines and our bodies were starting to lag, so as the weather started to come back in we knew it was time to call it a day. Injuries so often happen as the body and brain fatigue.

By the time we reached the car our bodies were ragged. While my brother had suffered painful boots all day, I realized that my toes were suffering from the cold thanks to frostbite years earlier. As the blood started to pump back through them, so did the pain. I to swore to sort out my boots.

So this autumn as you look ahead to the winter season, check your gear and make sure that it works right, as each day on the hill is precious. Those few extra dollars you spend or the extra time you put into getting your gear sorted might just pay off and you won’t miss any opportunities to have an epic day.

Words By Hamish Acland

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Traditionally there was just camber when discussing the side profile of a ski. Today we can discuss three or five variations of profile. The following is my attempt to translate the variety of ski designs born from the ‘rocker’ idea. So what the hell does rock my banana, low profile, early rise, reverse camber actually mean?

Firstly to discuss rocker we must understand what camber is. When you lay a traditional ski on a flat surface you will note that underneath the foot the ski won’t have any contact with the ground. When pressure is applied the ski then becomes flat, the contact points are where the ski base and edge leave the ground to form the tip and tail, the running edge is the distance between these two points.

Now in its basic idea rocker is the opposite, imagine a water-ski or surfboard, lay them on the ground and there tips and tail rise steadily creating a rocker shape, the contact point is in the middle.

The reason for rocker coming to the fore in ski technology was primarily to improve a skis performance in powder. You can see the relation; powder is similar to water hence rocker works so well in the white fluffy stuff.

Ski brands and designers have taken the two above ideas and have mixed in their own formulae. Adding into their equation sidecut and/or the lack of it, flex and degrees of rocker or rise.

The advantages of rocker are typically in ease of turning. In a crude way it cheats the ski into feeling like a shorter ski, making it more versatile and easier to turn, both on the groom or in powder.

To understand how it’s applied, imagine a ski with a flat base on groomed snow. Now as the ski starts to initiate a turn, the ski rises on to its edge, the edge near the tip or widest point starts biting into the snow and the ski begins to flex.

If we freeze the skis flex at this point and roll it back off edge sitting flat on the snow, the ski now has less ski touching the snow or a shorter running edge. This you could call pre flexed or early rise and it makes it easier to pivot the ski at the early phase of the turn, but as the ski edge angle increase so does its running length.

This basic application of early rise can be see in variety of skis that still have camber under the foot. It can be seen applied to learners ski but more commonly in freeride skis. The later aids in skiing powder or crud keeping the tip from diving or from unwanted tip hooking.

The next application does away with camber under the foot altogether replacing it with a gradual bend or rocker. Here we see depending on the ski’s intended use varying degrees of banana or rocker. For example a low profile rocker will see it perform better on piste, rolling the ski on its edge just slightly will see a large increase in the amount of edge contact. Increase the degrees of rocker shape and it will perform better in powder, but on a groomer its contact points will be very short, making it less stable.

The above examples of rocker design use variations of side-cut similar to what you would have seen on skis over the past five years. This next example is probably the most radical.

Lets say this ski is 185cm in length with good amount of rocker for skiing powder, thus making the running length short when on a flat surface. Where this design differs is that the sidecut doesn’t run the entire length but mimics a short ski of say 120cm when skiing on piste. From these widest points of the side cut as the ski bends up creating its rocker the ski actually narrows again. This means the tip and tail are obsolete on piste but then come into action only when skiing powder and soft snow. This geometry puts the bulk of the ski under the foot while the tip and tails are narrow in profile making the ski very easy to turn in powder.

To add one last twist this last example has also being applied to some park skis, it again cheats the ski into skiing shorter, with the narrow raised tip and tail coming into play with takeoffs and landings as well as skiing off-piste.

This I hope gives some insight into the world of rocker. With the variety of design principal the best thing you can do is demo a pair, talk to your local shop and or jump online to nzskier.com/forums to discuss with other skiers.

Fraser McDougall, last jump of the seasonPHOTO: TERO REPO

Words By Hamish Acland

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1. Armada Ant ProL. 181,191cm D. 133-107-123mmA proven Big Mountain Ski made to take the big drops and handle the big faces with ease.Built for the big mountain Rippers

$1349 ski only

2. Armada JJL. 175,185cm D. 126-136-115-133-121mmFeaturing ‘Elf Shoe’ technology with rockered construction, the ultimate Freeride/powder ski, yet still turns on a dime when snow conditions are variable

$1399 ski only

3. Atomic AccessL. 151,161,171,181,191cm D. 129-100-121mmPerfect backcountry ski and the ideal companion in any situation. Power rocker at front, step down sidewall and wood core.

$1499 with FFG12 binding

4. Atomic Bent ChetlerL. 183cm D. 140-123-134mmThe ski Chris Benchetler’s has always dreamed of. Rocker tip and tail and, in between a camber which even on hard ground delivers stable performance thru turns.


5. Atomic ElysianL. 152, 160, 168cm D. 122-92-110mmUltra light, genuine all-rounder for all kinds of powder snow adventure. Sidewall construction, tip to tail wood core.


6. Black Diamond ZealotL. 182, 192cm D. 136-110-126mm (182 cm)Our wide and powerful ski. The Zealot’s hard charging demeanor simmers down for an easier ride while skiing powder and tighter terrain.

$1099 ski only

7. Black Diamond VerdictL. 170, 180, 190cm D. 134-102-120mm (180 cm)An all round ripper that handles firm snow as easily as powder and crud, the Verdict is our most popular ski.

$1049 ski only

8. Black Diamond KilowattL. 155,165,175,185cm D. 125-95-113mm (175 cm)A more forgiving all – mountain ski, bridging the stability of the Verdict with an agile sidecut.

$999 ski only

9. Dynafit StokeL. 164, 173, 182cm D. 130-106-120mmThe Greg Hill pro model, named after his home town-Revelstoke. The perfect ski for self propelled powder turns!

$1150 ski only

10. Dynastar Sultan 94L. 165, 172, 178, 184, 189cm D. 132-94-118mmExcellent float capacity, unbeatable stability and control. Superior edge grip on hard pack due to full length sidewall and Titanal/ Wood sandwich construction.

$1449 ski only $1849 with PX12 binding

11. Elan SpireL.175,181,187cm D. 130-98-120mmDual Ti, vertical sidewalls and a moderate tip rocker. Built to slay the backcountry.

$1449 ski only

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15. Kingswood The MegafatL. 182,199cm D. 175-146-159mm (182)Pushing the boundaries of fatness, this is the ultimate powder companion. This ski could change your life. Must be tried to be believed.

From $1500 ski only Add $149 for custom graphics

16.Kingswood The ArchetypeL. 171,184,199cm D. 140-104-123mm (184)A great all rounder. Goes easily from piste to powder to the backcountry. Some people telemark on it. Some people tour with it. Everybody seems to love it.

From $1250 ski only

17. Line Prophet 115L. 172,179,186cm D. 153-115-142mmNew to the Prophet series the 115 address the market demand for a wider ski that will also excel in firm conditions.

$1299 ski only

12. Head Jimi 110 L. 174,181,191cm D. 130-110-120mmA ski for the frontier runner and the nonpartisan adventurer. Alaska proven shape with rocker tip and tail.

$1429 ski only

13. K2 SidestashL. 174,181,188cm D. 139-108-127mmAt 108mm underfoot, powder, cut-up crud and firm snow are all fair game. Metal laminate and all-terrain rocker add versatility!.

$1299 ski only

14. K2 HellbentL. 179,189cm D. 160-132-151mmThe ski that started the “Fat Twin” revolution gets a little fatter! Make those switch and regular pow landings feel like you’re on autopilot.

$1259 ski only

18. Line Celebrity 100L. 158, 165, 172cm D. 134-100-125mmBuilt on a wider chassis from award winning geometry, metal matrix and P-cut radius for effortless turn initiation, responsive power, stability and float!

$1059 ski only

19. Nordica EnforcerL. 169,177,185cm D. 135-98-125mmUser friendly side-cut, 98 under foot. Dominates any type of terrain. Whether you ski powder, crud, groomers, the Enforcer will crush them all.

$1450 ski only

20. Rossignol S7L. 176,188cm D. 145-115-123mmA world wide success story, the S7 does it all,Best Ski Best Technology a proven winner amongst big mountain freeriders! Try it!

$1649 ski only

21. Rossignol S6L. 174,186cm D. 136-110-130mmWTF, OMG An awesome versatile fat twin tip, now with Banana Rocker, from the backcountry to carpark this NEW S6 will be your new best friend. Try it!

$1599 ski only

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22. Salomon ShogunL. 164,173,182,191cm D. 130-101-120mmHigh Performance 101mm waist all-mountain twin tip designed to be stable at speed yet playful and floaty.

$1399 ski only

23. Salomon LordL. 161,169,177,185cm D. 128-87-115mmAll-mountain twin tip ski combining solid edge grip and stability with enough floatation to venture off-piste

$1399 ski only

24. Scott CrusadeL. 159,169,179,189cm D. 133-92-122mmThis is a true all mountain machine. The Venturi tip and tail tears up powder and crud with ease.

$1249 ski only

25. Scott Rosa L. 158,168,178cm D. 126-86-113mmScott’s Marquee womens freeride ski, a new lighter core will help you tackle any terrain.

$1149 ski only

26. Surface Live LifeL. 181,191cm D. 145-112-132mmEarly rise tip gives smoother transition to rocker point. Directional tapper shape maximizes float, comes round easier than most skis in this class.

$949 ski only

27. Surface Next lifeL. 145,160cm D. 133-100-122mmThe first ski company to unleash true rocker skis for groms. Designed and built to perform like an adult ski. Watch the others follow in your smoke.

$699 ski only

28. Volkl GotamaL. 170,178,186,194cm D. 137-106-122mmThe Gotama is a cult ski that turns every bump and ridge into a playground,medium rocker shape for freeriding.

$1399 ski only

29. Volkl MantraL. 170,177,184,191cm D. 133-96-116mmFor those unable to decide between free riding, touring and carving, our mantra is a way of life.

$1399 ski only

30. Volkl KendoL. 163,170,177,184cm D. 127-88-109mmken (sword), do (path) – this new ski cuts a swathe across the mountain. A knife-sharp all mountain ski for top speed and versatility.

$1349 ski only

31. Volkl KenjaL. 156,163,170cm D. 129-86-105mmThe little sister to the Kendo is a lightweight lady free ski that holds its own on hard terrain and has a unique women-specific geometry

$1349 ski only

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4. Atomic Cloud 9L. 144,151,158,165cm D. 121-73-106mmPerfect piste all-rounder for women. Lightweight. Boasts dynamic flex and ensures smooth skiing in all conditions.

$1299 with XTL 9 bindings

5. Atomic Cloud 6L. 142,149,156,163cm D. 115-70-97mmIdeal entry level model. Easy handling is guaranteed thanks to different Flex Zones which provide a progressively softer flex at the shovel and tail.

$899 with XTL 9 bindings

6. Dynastar Sultan 85 L. 158,165,172,178,184cm D. 126-85-110mmExcellent all terrain ski ability, On or Off Piste. Wide tip transition facilitates easy turn entry with full sidewall construction for control and stability

$1299 ski only $1849 with PX12 bindings

1. Atomic Crimson Ti L. 164,171,178,185cm D. 132-88-117mm88mm wide all mountain ski with adaptive camber construction, step down sidewall, wood core reinforced with 2 titanium layers.

$1699 with XTO 12 binding

2. Atomic Blackeye Ti L. 160,167,174,181cm D. 126-82-111mmExtremely smooth on trail yet sufficient lift in powder. Combination of wood core and titanium ensure superb stability and unrivalled performance.


3. Atomic Smoke L. 150,157,164,171,178cm D. 121-77-105mmPerfect introduction to the all mountain experience. Lightweight, versatile ski with optimal performance characteristics on all terrain and every type of snow.


7. Dynastar Sultan 80 L. 152,158,165,172,178cm D. 126-80-108mmFluid and versatile. New tip shape and side cut, gives excellent all-terrain and on-Piste ski ability. Vertical sidewalls give performance, stability and control.

$1399 with NX12 Fluid bindings

8. Dynastar Legend IdyllL. 152, 158, 165cm D. 124-78-106mmWomen’s specific tip and side cut shape for fluidity and control. Excellent edge grip from vertical sidewalls. This very popular ski has just got a whole lot better.

$1299 with Idyll fluid bindings

9. Elan Waveflex 82 Xti L. 160,168,176,184cm D. 123-82-109mmPiste, Pow, Crud or Ice. Built to tackle everything NZ can throw at you.

$1849 with bindings

10. Elan Waveflex 78 Ti L. 160,168,176,182cm D. 123-78-105mmWaveflex technology means this ski has great edge hold and easy turn initiation. The perfect all mountain ski.

$1449 with bindings

11. Elan Pure MagicL. 152,158,166cm D. 123-78-105mmLightweight, easy turning all mountain ski, for the ladies looking to ski the whole mountain. You won’t be disappointed.

$1249 with bindings

12. Elan Black MagicL. 146,152,158cm D. 119-72-100mmGreat value. Good looking, easy turning and stable. Exactly what the ladies look for in a ski, when they want an enjoyable day on the slopes.

$999

13. Fischer Watea 84L. 159,167, 176, 184cm D. 126-84-112mmLight weight, stable, and versatile, the perfect mid fat ski for the advanced adventure seeker. I-Beam technology and the perfect waist width give a mountain of options.

$1349 ski only

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14. Fischer Koa 84L. 140,150,155,160cm D. 119-75-102mmCarbon I-Beam construction, vertical sidewalls, and poplar woodcore for less weight and the right flex. The notched tail for skins means they are ready to explore.

$1599 with bindings

15. Head Peak 82 FLRL. 161,172,177,183cm D. 122-82-108mmNew Flow Ride construction gives easier handling, more agility, better floatation and automatic rocker in deeper snow.

$1655 with PR 12 bindings

16. Head EveryoneL. 149,156,163cm D. 122-72-106mmOur top selling woman’s ski with proven all round performance.Lightweight Aircoat and Head Intelligence

$1299 with Lite Rail bindings

17. K2 Aftershock TiL. 167, 174, 181cm D. 130-86-114mmCamber underfoot for power, energy and edge hold with all terrain rocker up front for soft snow performance. The best of both worlds.

$1795 with MX14 bindings

18. K2 PhotonL. 163,170,177cm D. 118-74-103mmA true recreational ski that provides unmatched forgiveness and control. All Terrain Rocker equals all mountain performance.

$1249 with M2 10 bindings

19. K2 Lotta LuvL. 149,156,163cm D. 125-82-110mmAdvanced women skiers who like to explore all corners of the resort from corduroy to powder and everything in-between.

$1595 with ERS 11 bindings

20. K2 Tru LuvL. 142,149,156,163cm D. 118-74-103mmBlending forgiveness and stability makes this the ultimate tool for intermediate skiers. All Terrain Rocker provides effortless turn initiation.

$1249 with ERP 10.0 bindings

21. Salomon XW Tornado TiL. 159,166,173,180cm D. 120-78-106mmStrong expert skiers who ski mostly on piste but like to explore the mountain on the right day.

$1899 with binding

22. Salomon LadyL. 153,161,169cm D. 128-85-113mmBig mountain ski combining solid edge grip and on-piste performance with flotation for the occasional backcountry adventure.

$1399 ski only

23. Volkl AC 50L. 163,170,177,184cm D. 128-85-112mmThe legend continues, skis anything, anywhere, anyway you want. Wide ride iPT bindings enhance edge hold & smoothen the ride.

$1999 with iPT WR bindings

24. Volkl AC 30L. 156,163,170,177cm D. 124-80-107mmPerfect for groomed slopes or for all mountain adventures, wideride iPT binding makes for a smoother ride.


25. Volkl AuroraL. 154, 161,168cm D. 132-82-103mmUltimate woman’s ski for NZ conditions, 82 underfoot, with iPT wideride bindings for extra edge grip and smoothness .


26. Volkl TierraL. 147 154, 161cm D. 129-78-99mmVersatilty personified,ideal for piste yet not afraid to get off trail. Woman specific Bio-logic technolgy for easier turning.

$1699 with iPT bindings

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4. Dynastar 6th Sense SerialL. 163, 173, 179, 185cm D. 110-68-103mmYouth Category, light weight, freestyle specific shape. Wide waist for stability on landing and riding switch. Unbeatable performance in Park and Pipe.

$899 ski only

5. K2 RevivalL. 159,164,169,174,179cm D. 121-90-115mmA park and all mountain slayer. All new Jib Rocker for added versatility in any conditions on any terrain.

$899 ski only

6. K2 MissDemeanorL. 149, 159cm D. 121-90-115mmThis infamous all mountain ripper is 5mm wider than last years version and now incorporates Jib Rocker for added versatility.

$899 ski only

1. Armada Alpha 1L. 170, 176, 182 cm D. 96-113-83-102-87mmElf shoe tech – It’s not just for fat skis anymore. The loose feel and light swing weight makes it the perfect jibbing tool and its lengthy sidecut still provides stability and edge hold.

$1199 ski only

2. Atomic PunxL. 155, 164, 173, 182 cm D. 111-82-111mmThe first choice for park and pipe as used by x-games winners Jossi Well, Andreas Hatveit and Elias Ambuhl. Easy to spin, wood core.

$1499 with FFG 12 bindings

3. Dynastar 6th Sense SpinL. 163, 173, 179, 185cm D. 119-87-109mmLight weight freestyle shape. Spring blade technology for added pop and cushioned landings. A true go anywhere – do anything twin. Double edges for durability on rails.

$999 ski only

7. Line BlendL. 173,168,178cm D. 132-100-122mmFreeride geometry with freestyle characteristics. New early rise tip and softer flex pattern improves pow shredding. Symmetric flex adds park versatility.

$1099 ski only

8. Line AfterbangL. 155,166,177cm D. 115-88-115mm4 years development but only one year to become our No.1 selling freestyle ski. Worlds’ only 7-ply Maple veneer skate deck construction.

$899 ski only

9. Nordica The ZeroL. 177,184cm D. 133-104-130mmEarly rise profile (rocker) combined with a solid wood core (enhanced with Titanium and killer graphics) makes this a weapon to rip up the backcountry powder.

$1450 ski only

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10. Nordica Double SixL. 149,156,163,170,177cm D. 120-80-109mmAll new park and pipe ski is very easy to handle and a perfect flex to rip it up. Very light in design for easy control in the air combined with a wider waist for perfect landings.

$999 ski only

11. Rossignol S3L. 168,178,186cm D. 124-96-115mmThe S3 with the NEW Rossignol Amptek technology with rocker tip and tail makes skiing a breeze. Any mountain any day

$1499 ski only

12. Salomon SuspectL. 151,161,171,176,181cm D. 122-86-115mmThe reference performance ski for the park and pipe. Extra durable and solid on jumps

$1399 with binding

13. Surface Watch LifeL. 172,182cm D. 132-100-122mmThe new standard in one ski quivers and exceptional value. Enter the white room, ollie, ski pillows, lap the park, all in the same day.

$849 ski only

14. Surface Nine LifeL. 162,172,182cm D. 112-82-105mmGaps? Check. Rails? Sure. Half Pipe? Uh huh! You’ll need nine lives for your own good with these puppies.

$749 ski only

15. Volkl BridgeL. 161, 169, 177, 185cm D. 128-95-115mmTotally redesigned with wider waist, less sidecut, and a slight rocker shape. Surely the new Bridge must be the best all-round free style ski.

$1199 ski only

16. Volkl WallL. 161, 169, 177, 185cm D. 115-87-115mmA Pro level park and pipe weapon. Symmetrical sidecut, robust woodcore construction and it rips all over the hill too!

$1045 ski only

17. Atomic Bent Chetler MiniL. 133, 143, 153 cm D. 124-90-116mmEverything a rising freeskiing star needs: a 90mm waist and Pop Rocker 5 provide maximum lift in powder.

$799 with FFG 10 bindings

18. Dynastar 6th Sense TeamL. 105, 115, 125, 135cm D. 104-72-98mmJunior freestyle twin tip with plenty of sidecut to help the young skier carve turns as well.

$349 ski only

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4. Fischer Motive 74 SWL. 155,160,165,170,175cm D. 120-74-102mmFor those skiers that want to rip up the whole mountain. Ice, groomers or powder this sleek all rounder will perform a treat.

$1399 with bindings

5. Fischer Exhale My Style L. 140,145,150,155,160cm D. 116-70-102mmFor ladies who enjoy life. Ultra light weight “Air Power” core with carbon laminates make this ski the perfect tool to advance to the next level.

$1099 with bindings

6. Head i.Supershape Titan L. 156, 163, 170cm D. 128-78-114mmA wider footprint with turbo charged formula one “KERS” technology aimed at the athletic sport skier

$1850 with FF14 bindings

1. Dynastar Contact GrooveL. 155,160,165,172cm D. 118-66-102mmCarving precision and excellent edge grip on hardpack. Fluid and stable with slalom racing sidecut. 12m turn radius. Loads of fun and performance.


2. Dynastar Booster 12L. 152,158,165,172,178cm D. 125-76-106mmOn trail, recreational performance. Control and versatility with wider body and deep side cut. Straight sidewall for positive edge grip on harder pack snow.


3. Dynastar ExclusiveL. 143,148,153,158cm D. 113-69-96mmWomen’s Specific. Dynastar exclusive balance system has been the cornerstone of design with this very popular ski for the developing female skier.

$849 with C cube bindings

7. Nordica Drive XBi CTL. 146,154,162,170,178cm D. 123-76-107mmThe DRIVE was engineered to help intermediate skier’s progress on the hard pack and feel good about venturing off-piste. Perfect support and versatility.

$1299 with bindings

8. Volkl RT SC PSIL. 155,160,165,170,175cm D. 119-68-101mmRacetiger Slalom Carver PSi models can be transformed with the new Power switch individual technology to provide a custom setup perfectly matched for each individual skier.

$1599 with sMotion bindings

9. Volkl Tigershark 10FtL. 154,161,168,175cm D. 121-73-102mmThe Tigershark combines racing prowess with versatility. The 10Ft has a new sidecut which adds stability and greater agility

$1949 with iPT SR bindings

10. Volkl FuegoL. 147,154,161,168cm D. 124-72-93mmNimble and agile to bring out the best in you anywhere on the mountain. Bio-Logic woman’s technolgy for easier, effortless turning.

$1699 with iPT bindings

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Lange Exclusive 9 $699A women specific boot with security, comfort and performance plus a host

of features. 100mm Last. Flex 100.

Lange Venus 7 $499Very popular with recreational lady

skiers with a wider foot. Special cuff to accommodate a wider calf muscle.

Lange Blaster 9 $699Classic Lange performance at a great price to suit good recreational skiers.

102mm Last. Flex 90.

Lange Concept 8 $599The ever popular Concept series with classic Lange features for the wider

footed skier. 103mm Last. Flex 85/75.

Nordica Ace of Spades $999Park and Pipe will never be the same!Progressive flex tongue.

100mm last.Flex 100-130.

Nordica Hot Rod 85 $799PFP Precision liner with FSE “Full

Shock Eraser” for the guys ripping up the whole mountain. 102mm last.

Nordica HotRod 90 w $899Comfort liner with FSE “Full Shock Eraser” for the girls ripping up the

mountain with the lads! 100mm last.

Nordica Speedmachine 110 $1099 Performance plus some!Push it then

push it some more!Heat moldable liner. 100mm last. Flex 100-110.

Atomic Hawx 100 $899I-flex zone works like an additional

joint. Promoting natural forefoot flexibility and improving balance.

Atomic BTech 90 $799Firm support in the heel and 104mm

forefoot mean the B90 is ideal for those seeking maximum comfort.

Atomic BTech 70 w $699Comfort T1 liner, easy step in/out and prewired for heating keeping you nice

and warm.

Atomic Hawx 80 w $799I-flex zones enhance natural foot movement, prewired for heating,

100mm performance last.

Dalbello Rampage $899Originally developed for park and pipe. Now has the credentials to

dominate all over the hill.

Dalbello Proton 11 $859For advanced to expert skiers. A high performance boot with versatile flex dymanics for control in any terrain.

Dalbello Electra 9 $759Ambitious women seeking control

without sacrificing comfort. F eatures“Fit for Women” technology.

Dalbello Voodoo $659Freeride and park skiers looking to

take it to the next level. Lightweight, shock absorbing inserts (heel & cuff).

Lange Super Banshee $1199Ultimate Freeride boot from the race stable, with Vibram sole segments for

traction. 98mm last. Flex 130.

Lange Super Blaster $899High end performance at a great

price. New Climatic System for hiking. High Grip Sole. 102mm last Flex 110

Fischer X100 $1099Wherever freeriding is possible, this all-round boot makes for great fun.

Shock Absorber and 100mm last.

Fischer My Style 90 $799This boot not only looks good but also

has convincing, attractive features, which is what women really want.

107

Black Diamond Factor AT $1199Our stiffest freeride boot, the Factor

is the ultimate combination of backcountry and alpine boots.

Black Quadrant AT $1049Our premier touring boot, defies

convention by giving ski performance to the touring weight range.

Black Diamond Swift AT $929Lightweight women’s touring boot, caters to the fast lady who wants a

solid boot for the turns she’s earned.

Dynafit Titan TF-X $1099The best performing all round free

ride touring boot – “there’s no FREE RIDE to the top”

Scarpa Diva $1099Proves efficiency can go with beauty.

No-sacrifice performance and comfort with a specific women’s fit.

Scarpa Spirit 4 $1099A powerful blend of modern high-

performance freeride boot and classic alpine touring boot.

Scarpa Typhoon $1099Hard-charging, ‘no compromise’

freeride boot! Flexible when heading uphill, maximum support on the down.

Scarpa TX Pro $1299Compatible with Rottefella’s NTN

Telemark binding. No tele-toe, better control, easier walking/kick-stepping.

Nordica Sportmachine 85 w $799Natural Foot Stance. Heat moldable

liner. Ladies will love the performance as well as the looks. 102mm Last.

Salomon Falcon CS $999High performance boot for expert

skiers seeking precision and power. Custom Shell Technology.

Salomon Kreation $799I love how they feel – they’re so comfortable and they are super

light.” - Sammy Carlson.

Salomon Shogun $999High-performance freeride boot was developed over 2 years with

Salomon’s team of Freeskiing pros.

Tecnica Dragon 120 $1099Top of the range Dragon, 100mm wide, 120 flex more relaxed upright stance

giving superior power to the edge.

Tecnica Slayer 110 $999Freeride inspired boot with full

contact shock absorbing system & bigger power strap for more support.

Salomon Divine CF $799Anatomical shell with extra light plastic for precise fit. Breathable

liner for dry and warm feet.

Salomon Impact 8 CS $899Impact series of boots has the

greatest amount of customizable material, for the widest range of feet.

Tecnica Attiva Dragon 100 $899Designed for women, narrower,

warmer and softer flexing with all the great features of the dragon range.

Head Edge +11 $750The Legendary Edge fit for ultimate comfort and performance. 2 double

power buckles and Superheat 3 Liner.

Tecnica Dragon 100 $899Excellent, softer flexing all round boot for the up-and-coming skier.

Piste or all mountain at a great price.

Head Vector 100 $770High performance and comfort all in one boot. New Innerboot with anatomical frame. Flex 100/90.

108

SoulrideJacket $699M1 softshell, suits the cold & wet,

tectonic welded construction, pitzips, E-pocket, powder skirt,

removable storm hood.

Chatel Jacket $599MemBrain® 2L waterproof/

breathable fabric, 650 fill goose down, zip-off hood, fleece lined zip

handwarmer pockets, powder skirt.

Guides Down Vest $299650 fill goose down, DriClime®

lined collar and chin guard, wind flap behind front zipper, zippered

handwarmer pockets.

Unita Jacket $299600 fill goose down, water

resistant outer fabric, zippered handwarmer pockets, wind flap,

angel-wing movement.

Spire Jacket $899Goretex®3L shell, 100% seam

taped, pack pockets, pitzips, zip-off powder skirt, gale-force hood

with wire brim, helmet compatible.

Tamarack Pant $349Membrain® 2L – waterproof/

breathable fabric, 100% seamed taped, internal gaiters, hand

pockets, Cordura® scuff guards.

Flurry Glove $169Goretex® waterproof/breathable,

high loft fleece lining, internal heater pocket, reinforced leather

palm, nose wipe.

Glade Glove $89Membrain® – waterproof/breathable insert, spirafill

synthetic insulation, heater pocket, nose wipe, safety leash.

Exum Work Glove $159Membrain® 2L – waterproof/

breathable fabric, fleece lining, free-flow stretch fit, roll-top

finger tips, nose wipe

Stormfront Jacket $399Marmot MemBrain® 2L

waterproof/breathable fabric, 100% seam taped, zippered handwarmer

pockets, storm hood, pitzips.

Groovstar

Oakley

Oakley

Oakley

Oakley

Groovstar

Marmot

Marmot

Marmot

Marmot

Marmot

Marmot

Marmot

Marmot

Marmot

Marmot

Groovstar

Scott

Scott

Groovstar

Teak Pant $26510 000 waterproof/breathable, seam sealed, bootleg shape,

covered inleg zip vents with mesh liner, jacket connector system.

Battalion Pant $490100% polyester snow jacket 15K

mm waterproofing & 15K g/m2/24h breathability, fully tape-

welded seams.

Trina Pant $540100% polyester Pro Rider Series snow ski pant, Loose fit 20K mm

waterproofing and fully tape-welded seams.

Maine Pant $26510 000 waterproof/breathable, seam sealed, bootleg shape,

covered inleg zip vents with mesh liner, jacket connector system.

Rikers Jacket $449Critical taped seams, Arm pit Venting, Powder Skirt. All the

bells on whistles with the Steeze to boot. 10k/10k

Mint Jacket $35910 000 waterproof/breathable,

fully seam sealed, zip out powder skirt with pant attachments.

Battalion Jacket $660100% polyester snow jacket 15K

mm waterproofing & 15K g/m2/24h breathability, fully tape-welded

seams 3-in-1 compatible design.

Mane Jacket $720100% polyester snow jacket,

Loose fit10K mm waterproofing and 5K g/m2/24h breathability,

fully tape-welded seams.

Cable Jacket $37910 000 waterproof/breathable, fully seam sealed, magnetic

storm flap, removable powder skirt with pant attachments.

Mistress Jacket $389Critical taped seams, Arm pit Venting, Powder Skirt. All the

bells on whistles with the Steeze to boot. 15k/15k.

109

STH Pant $279Three layers and fleece backed ClimateBlock fabric. Virtually

waterproof and windproof. Low rise cut won’t cramp your style.

Division Pant $349Funky styling with 10,000mm waterproof,fully taped seams,

mesh/taffeta lined, velcro cargos, and removable suspenders!

Achilles Pant $249Sessions #1 seller. Great price and features all rolled into a

classic cargo style baggy fit pant. ThermaGrid fleece for warmth.

Gridlock Pant $349Cargo style pant with all the

trimmings. ThermaGrid Fleece Seat and Knees, Mesh Lined, Cuff Elevator and Fully Taped Seems.

Tracker Pant $299Baggy fit for extra comfort and

mobility. ThermaGrid Fleece Seat and Knees, Cuff Elevator and

Stealth Cargo Pockets.

Flirty Jacket $499Premium style and features. Fully

Taped Seams and 10,000mm Waterproof, ThermaGrid Fleece lining for warmth without bulk.

Relpay Pop Jacket $399Style with the performance

features you demand. Fully Taped Seems, Brushed Mesh Lining, 10/8 Waterproof/Breathability.

Anoracket Jacket $379Fully taped 10,000mm

waterproof version of your old-school anorak. Baggy

fit with mesh lining.

Muse VI Jacket $399Plaid with a difference. Plus 2” in length, 10,000mm Waterproof and Fully Taped Seams. Sherpa lining

for warmth in a shell jacket.

Scarlet Blossom Jacket $569Waterproof, breathable fully seam sealed HyVent shell.

Sheds snow and keeps riders warm in cold conditions.

Free Thinker II Jacket $1199Three layer and seam sealed Gore-Tex Pro Shell. Seriously

waterproof and windproof protection with pit zip vents.

Raging Viking Jacket $1099Delivers all weather protection 3L Gore-Tex Performance shell.

Waterproof, breathable, fully seam sealed. With Recco.

Decagon Jacket $499HyVent exterior, fully seam-sealed and waterproof, yet

breathable Core pit-zip vents encourage airflow.

Jitterbug Jacket $549Retro-inspired jacket sits lower on the hips, with wide ribbing

along the hem and cuffs. Insulated with plush 550 fill down.

Milletan Jacket $699Two stylish jackets in one, protects

against gruelling elements. Waterproof exterior plus a

removable Heatseeker liner.

Monte Cargo Pant $379Waterproof, breathable, fully seam sealed HyVent fabric on

the exterior. Baggy fit with room through the hips, thighs & knees.

Freedom Pant $399Waterproof, durable pants which offer optimal mobility through its

relaxed contemporary fit.

Ridearchy Pant $499Park-fit, snowboard-inspired pants with logo belt, multiple

pockets, highly efficient Heatseeker Eco where it counts.

Freedom Insulated Pant $399Free-fitting, high performances pant with durable waterproof, breathable construction and

highly efficient insulation.

Freedom Boot Cut Pant $399Waterproof, seam sealed

insulated pants. Low rise fit at waist and flared boot cut bottom with Chimney Venting System.

Sessions

Sessions

The North Face

The North Face

The North Face

The North Face

The North Face

The North Face

The North Face

The North Face

The North Face

The North Face

The North Face

The North Face

Sessions

Sessions

Sessions

Sessions

Sessions

Sessions

110

Bolle Stoke $50.00Magneta Hot with Vermillon Gun lens

Flow-tech® venting, perfect helmet fit, P80 anti fog lens

and anti scratch coating.

Bolle Y6 OTG $140.00White with Vermillon Gun lens.

Fits over the glasses. Flow-tech® venting, double layer face foam, P80 anti fog lens, anti scratch coating.

Smith Phenom $249.99The Phenom packs superior technology

and maximum customization into this medium fit spherical goggle.

Smith Prophecy $239.99All new prophecy creates superior helmet and eyeglass compatibility. A comfortable fitting goggle with or without your prescription glasses.

Smith I/O $299.99This sleek spherical goggle with its

fast and easy lens changing system is packaged with a spare mirrored lens.

Smith Stance $189.99Fuse has had a name change and a facelift but has kept the Regulator

ventilation and free spare lens.

Oakley Crowbar $319.95Tanner Hall signature model

No fogging.No visual distortion. No sweat build-up. No itching. No wonder its is the choice of leading winter sports athletes.

Oakley Splice $339.95Simon Dumont signature model

Internal skeletal support system for reduced nasal pressure and maximized airflow. Dual vented lenses with anti fog.

Oakley Splice $319.95Internal support system for reduced nasal pressure and better airflow.

Improved downward visibility.Fast, easy lens changing

Oakley Gretchen Bleiler A Frame $279.95 White Helio/ Lion Crest)

Anti-fog Treated Ballistic Lens Optically corrected dual lens goggle.Superior venting to eliminate fogging

Scott Gemstoned $279NO FOG anti fog lense treatment, 100%

UVA/B/C Radiation Protection, Multi layer face foam, ACS and RAM Venting

Scott The Fix $199NO FOG anti fog lense treatment, 100%

UVA/B/C Radiation Protection, Multi layer face foam, ACS and RAM Venting

Bolle Monarch $140.00Butterfly with Vermillon Gun lens Flow-tech® venting, double layer face foam, perfect helmet fit, P80 anti fog lens, anti scratch coating.

Bolle Monarch $140.00Shiny Silver with Vermillon Gun lens

Flow-tech® venting, double layer face foam, perfect helmet fit, P80 anti fog lens, anti scratch coating.

Bolle Nova $99.00Shiny white checkers with Vermillon

Gun lens. Flow-tech® venting, double layer face foam, perfect helmet fit, P80

anti fog lens, anti scratch coating.

Bolle Nova $99.00Rad yellow with Vermillon Gun lens. Flow-tech® venting, double layer face foam, perfect helmet fit, P80 anti fog lens, anti scratch coating.

Salomon Impact Cushion Air $349.99 Styley with leather effect, this luxurious

helmet features a new adjustable Air system for a perfect fit.

Salomon Patrol $249 A true freeski helmet with

active ventilation and Salomon’s original removable visor.

Bolle Quaser $230.00Coral Snake Fire Orange 50 lens

Flow-tech® & spherical lens, triple layer face foam, perfect helmet fit, P80


Bolle Simmer $165.00White Teal Stripes Vermillon Gun lens.

Flow-tech® & spherical lens, triple layer face foam, perfect helmet fit, P80


Smith Variant Brim $299.99 This award winning performance helmet is veiled under a Hybrid Shell construction and finished

with distinctive style.

Smith Allure $199.99 Allure gives women the chance to take advantage of the world’s

lightest snow helmet.

Smith Intrigue $249.99 Low profile hybrid shell construction

helmet for women with adjustable venting and fleeced tricot lining for added warmth and comfort.

Smith Holt Park $149.99The Holt park offers riders all the style protection and durability they

demand in a minimalist design.

111

112

Black Diamond Bandit

AvaLung Pack $299A lightweight, minimalist avy-tools

pack for out-of-gate resort skiing and riding, cat/heli trips, or quick tours

from a hut. Built in AvaLung standard.

Osprey Kode Pack $189-$249The perfect backcountry snowplay pack featuring wet and dry gear organization, insulated hydration compatibility and all the features

needed to carry a variety of snow toys.

North Face Base Camp Duffel $259Award winning classic bomber expedition

duffel. Rugged construction and double stitching. Locking zippers.

North Face Off Chute 26 Pack $249Sleek, purposeful profile for big

backcountry days. Ski/board attachment system. Easy to use

helmet lash points on pack front.

North Face Longhaul 21 $399The Longhaul 21 is an excellent

piece of adventure gear with built in wet/dry bag. It’s the ultimate luggage for knockabout journey.

Arva Evo 3 $710Digital, 3 antennas, Super easy to

use, Distance & direction indicators, Marking function for multiple victims situations and a 5 star review from beconreviews.com

G3 Expedition Skin $279-$359G3’s time-tested and proven synthetic

climbing skin. Laminated tail strap reduces drag, and new RipStrip ensures

the skins remain easy to pull apart. Available 90–140mm widths.

BCA Tracker 2 $799Tracker2 offers the industry’s fastest, most precise pinpointing, with triple

receive antenna, instantaneous real–time display, and an easy–to–use interface.

Long Sleeve $129At last a merino long sleeve

that has style and won’t stink like synthetics, wear

it first or layer it up.

3/4 Long John $109Long John ¾ length with Mons

Royale signature waistband, Black Edition graphics.

Woman’s Tee $119You’ll love this merino tee on and off the slopes, 170 gsm makes the perfect

weight for everyday wear.

Boy Leg $35100% merino boy leg,

super soft and breathable for ultimate comfort.

Long Sleeve $129All the amazing attributes of merino, styled in long sleeve that can be worn

on any occasion.

3/4 Long John $109Long John ¾ length with Mons

Royale signature waistband.

Long Sleeve $129Designed for the rider’s lifestyle, long length, 100% merino, ultra

soft, super warm and breathable you won’t want to take it off.

Boy Leg $35These little numbers will

seduce anyone. Also available in Green and Black.

XTC Midweight Crew $115

XTC Midweight Tight $110Made with Carbon from Bamboo technology, moisture and sweat

wick away from your skin. Keeps you dry and comfortable

hour after cold hour.

Mons Royale

Mons Royale

Mons Royale

Mons Royale

The North Face

Marker Tour F10 $699Din 3-10. All new binding, lightweight

and easy to use touring binding, with great downhill performance.

Marker Baron $699Din 4-12. Duke’s little brother, same

downhill performance and back country touring mode but lighter and less DIN.

Marker Squire $349Din 3-11. New member of the royal family. A light weight, versatile freeskiing binding

with powerful energy transmission.

Dynafit Vertical ST $710Unbelievably light. Unbelievably durable.

Ultimately your binding of choice.

Salomon Z 14 $499Din 6-14. Exceptional Power & Precision for maximum attack.

Salomon STH 14 Driver $549Din 6-14. Super solid construction for the most aggressive Freestyle skiers. Developed by the international team.

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Send to:Reader Survey, New Zealand Skier Magazine,P.O. Box 462,Wanaka

Armada – www.armadaNZ.com Arva – www.smenz.co.nz

Atomic – www.brandex.co.nz

BCA – www.sportive.co.nz

Black Diamond – www.southernapproach.co.nz

Bolle – www.bolle.com

Dalbello – www.dalbello.co.nz

Dynafit – www.smenz.co.nz

Dynastar – www.dynastar.com

Elan – www.elanskis.com

Fischer – www.jonesbros.co.nz

G3 – www.sportive.co.nz

Groovstar – www.groovstar.com

Head – www.headnz.co.nz

K2 – www.k2skis.co.nz

Kingswood – www.kingswood.com

Lange – www.langeskiboots.com

Line – www.lineskis.co.nz

Marker – www.gravitysports.co.nz

Marmot – www.allsports.co.nz

Mons Royale – www.monsroyale.com

Nordica – www.jonesbros.co.nz

Oakley – www.oakley.com

Osprey – www.southernapproach.co.nz

Rossignol – www.rossignolNZ.com

Salomon – www.salomon.co.nz

Scarpa – www.allsports.co.nz

Scott – www.scottusa.com

Sessions – www. sessions.co.nz

Smith – www.smithoptics.co.nz

Surface – www.surfaceskis.com

Tecnica – www.gravitysports.co.nz

The North Face – thenorthface.com

Volkl – www.gravitysports.co.nz

For further information on products in the buyers guide, please refer to following websites

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KIWI SKIING BLOGS. FORUMS/TALK SKIING WITH THE COMMUNITY

COMPETITIONS/WIN THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS OF PRODUCT FROM

OUR ADVERTISERS. NEWS/DAILY NEWS BURTS. SHOP/SKI DVD’S,

T-SHIRTS, HOODIES, NZ SKIER MAGAZINE.

NZSKIER.COMWHERE SKIERS GO ONLINE

Because there is no ‘FREE RIDE’ to the top for untracked lines and first descents.

Titan Boot

beaconreviews.com

Stoke Ski 130/106/120

3-antenna digital avalanche beacon.

Documents

NZ Skier Buyers Guide 2010