Hotronics are the most effective, least bulky, easiest-to-install and reasonably priced boot heaters. There is nothing macho about cold feet! In fact, cold feet are inefficient feet, incapable of providing maximum balance for maximum performance. Skiers with cold feet tire more easily, too.
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Opedix - Orthopedic surgeon Richard Steadman, of NFL, NBA and Ski Team fame, has commented that it is better to prevent knee strain than to repair knee damage. Opedix agrees. Working with Steadman's own research facility, Opedix has developed and tested a support system— long johns—that is designed to reduce stress on knees, back and shoulders. We have tested Opedix and can report that it appears to work. One of our testers who suffers from chronic knee discomfort reports that Opedix definitely reduces his pain. Another noticed marked improvement in shoulder stress. At about $400 for both bottoms and tops, Opedix is fairly pricey, but effective—and warm.
Euro Ski Socks are offered in styles ranging from an ultra-light-weight technical Ski Liner to a beefier, padded Ski Zone and use the technical fibers of MicroSupreme™ and Thermolite™ (no wool). These are superb socks, especially for plug boot wearers.
Two we can't do without!
The Booster Strap replaces stock straps with an engineered elastic device that aids boot flex and rebound. The end result is like adding extra muscle to tired legs. Edge hold, rebound and carving power are all enhanced. Bode Miller and Ted Ligety, among others, find this enhancement indispensable. As do we . . .
Booster straps, Leki poles and Bode Miller at Alta Badia
Leki Poles are, to put it simply (and in our opinion), the best ski poles available, a sentiment shared by a majority of top-tier World Cup athletes, including Bode (see image above).
Of particular interest are the releasable-grip models (Vario shown), to which a special glove or harness is clipped in lieu of traditional straps. This actually helps when preparing to load a lift and makes the pole very easy to "put on".
The poles are light, flexible enough to absorb shock and vibration yet stiff enough to provide needed support on demand. Our favorite model, the Vision Venom Vario (shown above), uses an adjustable shaft to allow milimetrically-precise length adjustment.
Since 1956 Gordini has been designing the warmest gloves on the market—innovation is key. Gordini has engineered its gloves to be the best in performance, durability and warmth. Gordini utilizes the best components on the market, including GoreTex™, Primaloft™ and nature's own goose down. The company also has developed its own patented technical products: Lavawool™, Naturaloft™ and Aquabloc™.
Few mishaps are more aggravating than getting caught on the hill with a minor technical problem, like a loose binding screw, settings that have slipped, a small P-tex gouge, or broken edge. Some of these can lead to a long walk down the slope. Avoid getting stuck; carry a Leatherman tool. It can save the day.
Even more important than Leatherman's "ski shop a tool" are chamois, for drying goggles in snow, rain or after a face plant, and the most important tool, a diamond stone. Both of these items are available at most specialty shops.
will render stiff boots easy to put on.