I really enjoy small outdoor shops, and small ski shops. One Stop Ski Shop on 11th street in Steamboat Springs, CO is a great example. When you walk in, you are immediately greeted by one of a rotating cycle of shop dogs, and the ever-present owner: John Cole. John is a super laid back, friendly guy, but he knows exactly what he’s talking about, with 30 years of boot fitting experience.
An Interview With Icelantic CEO: Annelise Lovelie
Icelantic is an awesome ski company. There’s no doubt about it. They focus on ethics, they are built extremely well, the designs ski great, and the graphics are dope. I love the Gypsy and the Shaman.
I got to talk to Icelantic’s CEO: Annelise Lovelie to ask her a few questions. Annelise is very open and genuine. Everyone at this company seems to have an awesome outlook, and I hope to include more talks with the Icelantic crew on the, soon to be released, Magpie Gear Review Podcast.
Here are some random questions with Icelantic’s CEO: Annelise Lovelie. You can check out a selection from this piece and all kind of other goodness at MTN Town Magazine. -Aaron Imber
Read morePatagonia Nano Puff Pullover Review
The Patagonia Nano Puff is simply a standard in the industry. It is a proven, packable, synthetic puffy, with a fantastic warranty. The Nano Puff is an excellent backup jacket, and/or lightweight mid layer. There are other jackets on the market that are lighter. There are other jackets that are cheaper. But the Nano Puff is so well rounded, and so proven, that it is an icon in the outdoor industry. Plus it comes from a company that prides itself on social responsibility and environmental sustainability. For me, this jacket is a trusted companion that I’ll always have in the arsenal.
Dakine Baker 16L Review
The Dakine Baker is an awesome smaller pack that has that overbuilt, Dakine feel to it. It does everything well, but it is on the smaller side of the spectrum. It is about as small as I would go for most of my uses. I think it’s a great option for skiing the resort. It can handle a day of ski touring or side country hits, but it feels pretty maxed out. Plus, it’s an awesome travel daypack, and works well as an admittedly small hiking daypack and school bag. If you want a small, ski-oriented pack that’s just big enough, I’d take a look…
MHM Salute 34 Backpack Review
The MHM Salute 34L bag can handle it all. I have used the Salute for rock climbing, ski touring, and school. Its unique Snake-Loader™ zipper system makes it great for a rope bag, and the outer strapping system can be used for securing your skis to the bag; either way you will have plenty of room inside the Salute for your personal gear.
Black Diamond Verdict 2013
The Verdict is the most versatile ski in their line up. It was designed to shred through just about every condition you will find out there. Whether you’re finding the white room, ripping around fresh corduroy, or pond skimming in the spring, these bad boys will perform great.
Icelantic Gypsy 2013
The Icelantic Gypsy is an interesting ski that, in many ways, is hard for me to classify. For most buyers this is an awesome, playful, fully rockered powder ski. But if you are an advanced skier, who likes fat skis, you might find yourself taking these out in less than optimal conditions.