PowderGuide is very fortunate to work with many of the best and most respected mountain sports companies that produce high-quality freeride and touring equipment. In the partner special, we would therefore like to present or recommend one of our partners' top products for winter 2012/2013 in particular.
Mammut
Mammut is presenting seven new backpack models that are compatible with the R.A.S. avalanche airbag system, which is also available separately. The R.A.S. system allows the airbag unit to be swapped between different backpacks, thus increasing flexibility when using an avalanche airbag backpack. From the affordable entry-level model from 500 euros to the ultralight backpack and 45-liter multi-day backpack, there is guaranteed to be a suitable model for every ski tourer and freerider.
Arc'teryx
The classic Alpha SV Jacket not only receives the Ispo Award for Outdoor Clothing, but is now 10% lighter than last year's models thanks to the new GORE-TEX® N80p-X laminate. The Alpha SV Jacket has been setting the bar for well thought-out details, anatomical cut and absolute weather protection for 13 years now.
Black Diamond
The climbing and freeride specialists from Utah are delighting the community of freeriders interested in ascents with a complete collection of ascent-oriented freeride skis. Five ski models have been added under the heading "Rockered Tour". Thanks to its rocker profile and 95 mm waist width, the Black Diamond Revert can be used anywhere in the backcountry. The elongated rocker shape at the tip and tail, combined with full camber under the binding, is ideal for easy, precise turns on hard snow and stable skiing in powder or in changing snow conditions.
Salomon
A much admired freeride highlight of Ispo 2012 is certainly the newly presented freeride binding Salomon Guardian 16. The wide 80 mm construction, easy change between downhill and ascent function and a low stand height of 26 mm appeal to downhill-oriented freeriders who do not want to compromise on the descent.
Evoc
Photographers beware: Evoc is introducing a new photo backpack that perfectly combines the advantages of a freeride backpack with the necessities of a photo backpack. For €299, the ambitious ski and outdoor photographer gets a fully-fledged and stable photo backpack that also works well on the mountain.
Salewa
The top model in the completely newly developed freeride backpack line is the Taos 28 l. The freeride backpack impresses with its high carrying comfort and perfect fit (Ride-Fit), several ski carrying options and a modern design. The Revelstoke model is specially tailored to the needs of snowboarders. Both models will be available for 179.97 euros.
Bergans
The outdoor specialists from the far north of Europe present the Osen Down Jacket, a new down and wool jacket. The hybrid jacket combines the best of both natural materials by combining lightweight and robust wool with high-quality down. The Osen Down Jacket will be available as a men's and women's version and both with and without a hood for 300 euros.
Marker
The classic freeride binding, the Marker Duke 16, is getting a facelift. The lifted Marker Duke EPF (extended powder frame) scores points with a widened Duke chassis, which should ensure better power transmission. A wider drill pattern should make the Duke even more potent for very wide freeride skis. The price remains identical to the Marker Duke at 379.95 euros.
Fritschi
The Scout 11 is the successor to the Diamir Experience. Positioned in the all-mountain segment, the affordable binding for 329 euros should also appeal to beginners. The low weight and the full Din standard for touring and alpine soles make the binding an all-rounder. The binding is recommended for moderately wide freeride skis with a center width of up to around 105 mm.
Icebreaker
Familiar quality in a new look will be available from the merino specialists at Icebreaker in the coming season. The Carvezip combines the well-known good fabric quality of merino wool with a fashionable design. Both the men's and women's models will be available for 179.95 euros.
Freeride Map
The map specialists from Switzerland will once again be delighting the freeriders of this world with new maps next season, so that you have an immediate overview of the freeride options in the well-known freeride spots. The routes have all been carefully researched by local mountain guides and in collaboration with the local authorities. New maps are already available this winter for La Grave (Fra), Oberstdorf (D) and Monte Rosa (It).
Uvex
The Core Range product line specially developed for freeriding is growing. The H.lmt 5 completes the Core Range and combines function and style. The perfect fit between goggles and helmet not only looks good, but also keeps the snow away from the rider's forehead. The many different and fashionable color combinations with the matching goggles in the Uvex Core Range give every mountain individualist plenty of scope to develop their own style.
