Some of the boards we picked for this preview are here because of their innovations in design or materials. Boards like Burton’s T6, K2’s Riser Recon, and Volkl’s Selecta are trying new things and attempting to change the way we ride. Others, like the Burton’s Shaun White and Forum’s Warrior, are included because we were just captured by them at the tradeshow. Whatever the reason for our including them, all the boards in this preview are worth keeping an eye out for come winter. Continue reading…

In the past bindings have often been overlooked in the style department, and thought of more as just the means to attach feet to a board. However, the last couple of years have seen some tremendous progression in both the materials and the design of bindings. 2005 pushes this even farther, with many companies deciding to really focus on binding design, and the results are incredible. Visible this year is the “capstrap” that has everyone talking, a focus on quick-entry bindings, and new technology crammed into every bolt-hole. Here are some bindings that we think will be all the rage in 2005. Continue reading…

Helmets, those terribly bulky, unstylish, blocks of plastic that some lame-o’s wear to protect their noggins. Well, you can go ahead and trash that preconception, the helmets of 2005 look nothing like the ugly, inefficient headwear of the past. For ‘05, companies have redoubled their efforts to make helmets fit comfortably, look stylish, and even sound good, with the addition of headphones. Continue reading…

One of the smallest and lightest weight components of your riding attire, goggles have a special ability to determine how fun your day is. Everyone knows it sucks when your goggles fog on a powder day, and you’re stuck squinting at the snow as it stings your eyes. The following goggles were picked based on the use of new ideas and technology to make your riding vision better. Continue reading…

One of the downsides to snowboard vacations is all that gear you have to haul around. We picked out a few of the 2005 bags and packs that will help you make those treks without too many backaches. Continue reading…

It seems like the boot market changes every year. New material, new construction techniques, and new lacing concepts, 2005 has them all. 2005 looks like it could be one of the biggest years in innovation since snowboard boots first started fazing out Sorrels. Continue reading…