Rome Machine A board designed for one thing and one thing only: the terrain park. Rome loaded the Machine with a suite of impact technology (thicker edges, anti-compression plates, durable compounds) creating a workhorse for park rats. This board is designed to withstand season upon season of jib, rail, and pipe abuse. $400. Romesnowboards.com.
Rossignol Works One Mag A lightweight, all mountain board with patented Magne-Traction technology that puts more control between the snowboarder’s feet. Instead of relying solely on standard edge grip, this Rossi board features “Mag bumps” that grip better on icy conditions while allowing you to maneuver more effectively in all kinds of snow. $499. Rossignol.com.
Bolle Scream The streamlined look keeps you from looking like a dork and the Air Booster system keeps air moving over the lenses for maximum anti-fog performance. $109.99. bolle.com
Patagonia Powder Bowl A classic hard shell with 21st century characteristics. The Powder Bowl has a 100% recycled polyester shell that’s completely waterproof, as well as a recycled mesh liner. Our wear-tester liked the padded iPod pocket, but fell in love with the exaggerated collar, which eliminates the need for a cumbersome gator on the coldest days on the slopes. $350. Patagonia.com.
K2 Hawk Solid construction is paired with a user-friendly binding to create a ski package that is forgiving and easy to maneuver. The Hawk builds confidence in beginners just starting to explore the greens and blues. And the price is right too. $500 (with bindings). K2skis.com.
Nordica Speedmachine Mach 3 Power A high performance ski built for expert skiers who like to suck the most life out of steep, groomed runs. The exaggerated sidecut grips well on firm conditions (East Coast ice and packed powder) and the faster you go, the more stable the skis become (think Porsche on the Audubon). The performance-oriented package allows you to carve aggressively down the fall line. $1435 (with bindings). Nordica.com.
