Outdoor Retailer is one of the most fun times of the year. Not only do you get to play with, fondle and see a ton of new gear, but you also get to catch up with a bunch of people you rarely see.
The show kicked off at Solitude with the on snow demo. Here retailers and nerds get to try the new gear out; where it matters, on the hill. This was the first time we had heard of and were able to see 22Designs new VICE. Terrified to hear that my long time favorite; the Hammerhead, would be phased out, I was skeptical anything could out perform it. I was wrong. The new Vice is built off the chassis of the Axl, only without the free pivot components. The Vice also employs a 3 degree down angle to eliminate rocker launch and make the binding more responsive. It, like the Axl, has 3 hole of adjustment as well as a 1 degree slop making position 3 ski more active than position 5 of the Hammerhead. I was quickly turned a believer when in it. Just like the Axl it will also have an option of a stiffy spring for those of you who like LOTS of activity.
Back Country Access made tremendous improvements upon their popular Float series. The Float 36 shed massive amounts of weight (weighing in at 6.4lbs is what rings a bell), improved diagonal ski carry, new back panel (helps shed snow), separate tool compartment and an option to place the trigger on which ever shoulder you choose. Their new colorways for the Stash will make a huge statement next year bringing bright colors and an improved ski carry. Most notable out of BCA was the new HOE shovel and STEALTH probe. The Stealth was/is the fastest probe I have ever seen and makes assembly a cinch. The Hoe allows a traditional shovel to be made into a hoe making moving massive amounts of snow much more efficient, and with less energy.
Scarpa’s T-Race returns unchanged from last year. It is using the plant derived Pebax which is easier on the environment and doesn’t rely on petroleum for the manufacturing process. Great for all the hippies out there!
Known for their impressive colorways and paneling, TREW did not disappoint. Returning with the Bellows, Cosmic and Pow-Funk, Trew is bringing colors like Manjenta, Denim, Carotene and Olive to the line.
Stay tuned as we test the gear, put it thru the paces and write reviews.
~Weston D
