Though our testers spend much of Gear Test Week in denim, sequins and fur, they’re well versed in denier, down and wool. Here are their top choices.
2023 Editors’ Choice: Speed Touring Skis and Boots
Fast is light, and light is expensive. But the miles go by fast and easy. If that’s what you’re looking for, speed touring gear may be for you. See what skis and boots shined in this category.
2023 Editors’ Choice: Free Touring Skis, Boots and Bindings
Whether taking a chairlift bump, firing up the snowmobile or hitting a skintrack, those who free tour prioritize an aggressive, tough (if heavy) kit for a dominant descent. Inspired by big mountain competitions and freeride style, free touring gear focuses on sturdier materials for downhill-focused performance.
Gearbox: Sunglasses
From high-pressure weather to over-cast storm cycles, these six sunglasses balance clear vision with stylish looks.
2022 Tester Profile: Galen Parke
As a Teton County (Wyoming) Search and Rescue member and powerhouse of a skier, second-year tester Galen Parke has one trait he looks for in a touring ski: reliability.
2022 Editors’ Choice Awards: Snowboards, Boots & Bindings
Used to be that you strapped a plate on your resort bindings and used your resort boots for backcountry snowboarding, but now we have lightweight touring-specific gear that performs well on the up and the down. Our splitboard testers celebrated that fact by highlighting their favorite boards, boots and bindings.
2022 Editors’ Choice: Apparel
Our testers have always pushed apparel in harsh conditions, and last season was no exception. After all, the folks who make the cut as BCM testers aren’t scared of skinning in sleet, heavy snow and blistering sun—sometimes all on the same day. Here, you’ll find the cream of the crop of jackets, pants, puffies and midlayers.
2022 Tester Profile: Chris Cloyd
As a fitness junkie who’s also an ace in the terrain park, Chris Cloyd wants a board that will take him far into the mountains and jib like a solid.
2022 Tester Profile: Marla “Cookie” Bailey
Marla “Cookie” Bailey has had a few perfect days in the mountains, but she’s still on the hunt for the perfect ski.
2022 Tester Profile: Jason Layh
Over his 12+ year tenure, Jason Layh has served as a ski tech, tester and now as our Tahoe test coordinator. He’s infamous for recording his thoughts on each piece of gear on his phone and listening back to the audio while writing his reviews. Needless to say, Jason is the pinnacle of tester pro status.
