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Chic Winter Gear

By Dave Norona
On: Tue, Jan 6, 2009 , Tagged:

Style on the slopes? You bet. Get the inside track on some of the hottest winter gear for the outdoor sports enthusiast, including high-tech headgear, ultra-performance skis, snazzy snowboards, smart outerwear, avalanche accessories and compact backpacks.

My good friend and Harbour Air CEO Greg McDougall plays as hard as he works. Whether he is busting a lung up some mountain on snowshoes or tearing up the powder in the BC backcountry, he appreciates the finest chic outdoor gear available. Here are some of his favorite items—perfect for the guy or gal who enjoys the great outdoors and the finer things in life.

Giro Omen Wireless TuneUps Helmet
No one should be on the slopes without a helmet. With its incredibly comfortable fit and wireless technology, the Giro Omen allows you to handle those important business calls while skipping a day at the office for the slopes. Shhh, we won’t tell! Price range: $500, www.ogc.ca

G3 SpadeTECH Elle Snow Shovel
Safety is of utmost importance when in mountainous terrain. The G3 SpadeTech Elle Shovel was designed for women shredders that demand versatility and durability without the weight. It’s the perfect match for the women who use it: sleek, stylish and strong. Price range: $69, www.genuineguidegear.com

Prior Spearhead Split Board
For the snowboarder looking for some fresh BC backcountry powder, the Prior Spearhead Split Board will get you there. Named after the famous Spearhead Traverse, it splits apart and the bindings and included skins allow you to hike into the backcountry. Just put it back together and rip it up! Price range: $1299 complete, www.priorsnowboards.com

Salomon Falcon CS Ski Boot
Most ski boots feel like a vice tightening around your feet but Salomon’s new Falcon CS boot shell can be heated up and customized perfectly for your feet. The 3-D buckle system eliminates pressure points and allows you to carve up the slopes! Price range: $599, www.salomonsports.com

Orage JP Pro Jacket
With 20,000 waterproof/breathability and 3-ply fully sealed hard shell technology, Orage’s Pro Jacket is the ultimate winter piece. Preformed elbows, pit zips and a ton of secret pockets to stash your iPod, camera and phone. Price range: $429,
www.orageski.com

Oakley Women’s Crowbar Goggles
If you’re a skier or boarder who has the best of everything, then you probably own a pair of Oakley goggles. Well it’s time to upgrade! These sweet new winter Crowbar goggles are super comfortable, offer the greatest UV protection and never fog up! Price range: $175, www.oakley.ca

Atlas Electra 923 Women’s Snowshoes
Float over the beautiful snowy alpine with these women-specific snowshoes from Atlas. The energy-efficient spring-loaded binding system provides you with a natural gate, combined with a super lightweight design and an aggressive crampon for superior traction. Price range: $150, www.atlassnowshoe.com

Atomic D2 Vario Cut Skis
The engineers at Atomic have just released these futuristic Atomic D2 Vario Cut skis. The front and rear sections of the ski actually split apart so the ski turns better as you carve. Light, agile and a ton of fun to ski. $1200 with bindings, www.atomicsnow.com

Dakine Pro 2 Pack
This pack is perfect for those backcountry missions off piste. It has an insulated hydro sleeve to ensure your fluids don’t freeze, offers tons of space for all your backcountry safety gear and allows you to carry your skis or snowboard on your back. Price range: $129, www.dakine.com