We all know what skiers and riders really want – a white Christmas.
Neither the winter warlock nor our most ski-friendly meteorologists can
guarantee that. So back to finding that perfect gift, without a huge hit to
the wallet (read: so you have enough money left over to ski or board
yourself). Here are a few of fun things for skiers to give and receive.
SmartWool PhD Ski Socks
Tthe name alone sounds impressive. Get your friend a PhD for just $16-24.
These super socks, worn officially by the US Ski and Snowboard Team, will
keep their feet happy all season long, they prevent odor too so it’s good
for the giver if you carpool with stinky feet Fred.
Disposable Hand and Toe Warmers
Ok, so these are quick, cheap and disposable, unlike your ski buddy
(hopefully). Your friend will remember long after the 8 hours of warmth in
their mittens and boots that you provided them this thoughtful toasty gift.
Buy them by the case for the best deal (and grab a handful for yourself
too).
Portable Boot Dryer
Nothing ruins your day, and your ski or snowboards boots longevity, like wet
clammy boot liners. A portable boot dryer quickly dries your boots with
inserts, so you don’t have to pull out the tight liner from the bulky cold
plastic shell, or risky melting your boots by the fire. You can also put
your mittens and gloves on the dryers for an hour or two, and warm your gear
in the morning before hitting the slopes. Seirus makes very portable corded
boot toasters for $25.
Dermatone
Protect your friend’s face with the iconic blue tin or tube of Dermatone
that the US Ski Team slathers on for sun and wind protection. It’s all
natural, with SPF 23, and a steal at about $8 a stick.
Locks of Love
A ski or snowboard lock for the one you love says “I care” or at least “I
don’t want anyone to swipe your stuff.” Burton makes a Cable Lock that’s
pocket size with a three digit combo for $14.95.
Wax on Wax off
Portable ski or snowboard wax for that particular snowsports pal will be
appreciated, and only set you back the cost of a six pack. Swix and Maxx
Waxx come in small (4oz) dispensers for on the slope application. No iron,
no fuss, no muss.
If your Boarding Buddy is a Tool
Burton makes a handy dandy pocket size Zip Tool for on the fly fixes with a
wrench, Phillips and Flat Head screwdrivers, an Allen Key, plus a squeegee
for those snowmaking goggle splecks. It’s the Swiss Army Knife for
snowboarders, but skiers will like it too. And yes, you can open a beer with
the Burton Zip Tool, the ultimate bromance gift for 10 bucks.
A Boyne Gift Card
This little piece of plastic can be used toward lift tickets at Sunday
River, Sugarloaf or Loon, a spa treatment, swag in their respective retail
shops, or even to buy a round of beers at the Foggy Goggle or Widowmaker.
Denominations are $25, 50, 100 and so on. They’ll even ship it straight to
your recipient, fun and done.
Buy the Cow, get the friend for free…
Wachusett has a COW card, available in $10 increments for everything from
lift tickets, to lunch in the lodge, gear, beer, you get the gist. Your ski
buddy will be udder-ly thankful for the COW: card of Wachusett.
End Bad Hair
A beanie for your BFF is a great gift, to cover up their bad helmet hair
with a stylish cap, Bonus: you don’t have to stare at their flat funky hair
at the après ski bar. Beanies are available in a rainbow of colors, stretch
to fit most fat heads and typically cost $12-18.
2013 Top Skis Reviewed
2012 Best Skis Review
2012 Best Ski Boots Review
2010 Top 10 Ski Reviews
