Next year’s gear: three early winners

Slide picks three of 2016/17 best bits of ski gear

Is it too early to get excited about next year’s gear? Never! We’ve just come back from Slide, the UK’s wintersports trade show where we spent a solid three days admiring shiny 2016/17 gear…

A big part of the show is the Slide Awards, which recognise the hottest products for the 2016/17 winter season and acknowledges innovation in snowsports across three categories: Hardware, Software and Accessories. The awards are voted for by SIGB retail members, press and industry opinion leaders.

Here are the winners:

Hardware: Lange XT 130 Freetour ski boot

The Lange XT 130 Freetour ski boot was recognised as the stand out product in the Hardware category. The boot is lighter than an alpine boot, but despite having the same performance as a downhill boot, it has a range of ‘Freetour’ features including an ultra grip sole and pin binding inserts.

Software: Head Quantum Jacket

In the Software category, the Head Quantum Jacket was recognised for its innovative breathable outerwear. The EXO Phase technology sees near seam free construction and an advanced warp knitting technique means that breathability can be tailored to different parts of the body. In the Quantum jacket, open structures are positioned under the arms and centre of the back.  

Accessories: Dragon X1 Goggle

The Dragon X1 goggle features ‘Transitions’ lenses, which automatically change tints in response to changing sunlight and weather conditions. This technological innovation meant Dragon Alliance took the win in the accessories category. The ‘game changing goggle’ also combines the patented ‘Frameless Lens Technology’, pushing the versatility of the goggles to the next level.

Next up we’re off to ISPO in Munich for a second-round of gear gawking. Keep an eye out on our Instagram for a first-look at the most-tantalising gear.