Last March, our testers tried the best skis, boards, boots, bindings and apparel that we could get our hands on at our 13th annual Gear Test Week. After months of working remotely from our basements, guest bedrooms and kitchen counters, our editors are ready to reveal the top picks to help you get remote on the skintrack with 34 Editors’ Choice awards. Below, you’ll find the standout splitboard boot and binding that won an Editors’ Choice Award.
Spark R&D Arc Pro
$540 – sparkrandd.com | AVAILABLE SIZES: XS/S, M/L, S, M, L | WEIGHT/PAIR: 2.5 lbs. (M)
“For the surfy rider who lives and breathes for wind lips that echo waves and pillows that seem as if they popped out of Dr. Seuss’s pen, the Arc Pro perfectly balances playfulness and response. If you take on techy, steeper shit every now and then, the Arc Pro can certainly hang, too, and the weight is especially appreciated when touring with skiers and uber fit split bums.” —Drew Zieff, Salt Lake City, Utah
K2 Aspect
$460 – k2snow.com | AVAILABLE SIZES: 7, 8-11, 12, 13 | WEIGHT/PAIR: 5.4 lbs.
“Best boot I’ve ever stepped in, without the weight, clunkiness and lack of board feel that often plagues crampon-compatible boots. I found myself kicking steps up an icy couloir in no-fall conditions and was impressed with the grip and strength of the sole, without sacrificing board feel or comfort on the descent. Overall, the Aspect is a high-performance, feature-packed boot that will satisfy casual backcountry riders and snowboard mountaineers alike.” —Jed Doane, Salt Lake City, Utah
BUY THE 2021 GEAR GUIDE
Get your copy of the 2021 Gear Guide with in-depth reviews of all 34 Editors’ Choice winners, plus more than 120 must-have skis, splitboards, boots, bindings and apparel.
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