2008, by HotChocolate

It's that time of year again! Time to spread the joy of Christmas through good old Capitalist consumption. Skiing the Backcountry has put together a list of the best Christmas gifts for the backcountry skier you love.

Whether your budget is 20 chickens or 1000 bucks, we've got a suggestion for you! Unlike stores that are trying to sell different products, our suggestions are based on our love of gear. The items below are what we would put on our Santa wish list...

Give the Gift of Life (priceless)

Snowpulse Avalanche Airbag

The Snowpulse Avalanche Airbag $1000
What's a thousand dollars when it comes to protecting your loved ones? The Snowpulse Avalanche Airbag system is proven to prevent avalanche victims from getting buried AND protect their vital organs from injury during the fall! It's the best, most advanced avalanche safety product on the market. This year's model has several improvements, including a larger backpack... Contact Chuck at www.avalanchesafety.ca to order the best gift you could possible give to a backcountry skier...

Stimulate the Economy! ($100+)

Dynafit TLT Vertical FT Bindings

Dynafit Bindings $569.00
Dynafit bindings are ultra lightweight, which means that backcountry skiers can move more quickly and safely through dangerous avalanche terrain. Lightweight bindings also equal more fun and less frustration! Anyone who spends time in the mountains would love Dynafit bindings for Christmas!

Backcountry Access Tracker Beacon

BCA Tracker DTS Beacon $289.95
Affordable and easy-to-use. This beacon is a must have for anyone who skis out of bounds.

Patagonia Down Sweater

Patagonia Down Sweater $199
Lightweight, compact, and super duper warm. This 800-fill down jacket is just the right temperature for an Alpine Tour. It's a favorite, wear-it-every-day multipurpose jacket.

Black Diamond Bandit Avalung Backpack

Black Diamond Bandit Avalung Pack $169.95
This pack will carry everything necessary for a day skiing the backcountry. More importantly, it can save your life! Avalung technology will help you breath if buried by an avalanche. While not quite as awesome as the Snow Pulse Avalanche airbag, it is affordable.

Therm-ic Boot Heaters

Therm-ic Boot Heaters $119.95
If you know a skier who seems to be constantly cold, Therm-ic boot heaters are the best Christmas gift that you could possible give them! I can honestly say that boot heaters have changed my life. They allow my feet to stay comfortably warm throughout an entire day of skiing. More importantly, they allow me to enjoy crowdless powder on the really cold days (-20 and below) without worrying about frostbite!

Stay tuned for Part 2 of the Backcountry Skier's Gift Guide with Christmas gifts between $50-$100, $25-$50 and stocking stuffers...

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