Skiing is one of those hobbies that requires quite a bit of equipment. When you’re just starting out, it can be a great idea to rent equipment rather than buy it– after all, you might find that you don’t enjoy the hobby, or you’d rather be snowboarding instead. But once you’ve decided to commit to skiing, you need to start looking for gear.
There are a lot of skiing gear companies out there. Today, we’re highlighting some of the best in the business. We’ll share what’s awesome about each brand, and some of their top products, as well as where to buy them.
What’s Our Expertise On This Topic?
I personally have been absolutely obsessed with skiing since 2019. Starting at the resorts and quickly transitioning to primarily ski touring This has lead to a relatively fast understanding of gear, and ability to empathize with newer skiers in particular. While researching for this article, we polled our friends that are over 100 day per year skiers, ski racers, ski mountaineers, and spoke to dozens of ski shop employees and gearheads. This list isn’t all inclusive, but we simply aim to highlight the top brands and will continue to update this article each year.
Where Should I Shop for Ski Gear?
If you’re looking for ski gear online, evo is one of the best places to shop. This ski gear emporium has been around for twenty years and has brick-and-mortar stores in several locations. Not only do they have almost everything, and solid prices, they have a team that is super helpful in picking the best gear for you. You can pick up the phone and speak to an expert. They helped me personally with my first online ski purchase, and they were immensely helpful and kind.
We always want to encourage supporting local businesses. That means supporting your local ski shop. Walking into a shop and asking for help is not only one of the best ways to learn and try on gear, you can be supporting a locally owned business. We highly recommend this approach if you can get to a local store.
Other outdoor stores, like Backcountry and REI, are good places to shop– and of course, there’s always Amazon.
Used ski gear is also very popular, and a smart purchase option for many– especially if you’re just getting started and don’t want to invest in the most expensive stuff right away. Evo has a great used gear section, and many ski resorts and ski shops will sell off their older models at bargain prices. You can also check out ski swaps, which are often held at the start or end of the ski season and are frequently organized by local groups and ski clubs. In addition, many ski shops hold gear on consignment, along with Facebook marketplace being a great way to find used gear.
Skis
Without a good pair of skis, you aren’t going to get very far! These skiing gear companies make great skis for skiers of all skill levels.
K2
Founded in 1962, K2 has become a well-respected name in the world of skiing and snow sports. The company is renowned for its wide range of ski equipment, including skis, snowboards, ski boots, and bindings. K2 is known for its dedication to technological innovation and performance, continually pushing the boundaries of design and engineering to create cutting-edge gear. This company actually invented the fiberglass ski, revolutionizing the sport, and they continue to innovate today.
Side note: my first pair of skis were K2, and I still own a pair today!
- Website: K2 Sports
- Favorite Products: Disruption series, Mindbender series, Reckoner series
- Where to Buy:
Rossignol
One of the oldest existing skiing gear companies, Rossignol was founded in 1907 by Abel Rossignol, who originally started by manufacturing wood products for the textile industry. An avid skier, he decided to make a pair of skis out of wood, and in 1937, Emile Allais became triple world champion on Rossignol Olympic skis. Today, the company is known for its award-winning skis in addition to apparel, accessories, snowboards, bikes, poles, and more.
- Website: Rossignol
- Favorite Products: Experience series, Blackops series, Sender series
- Where to Buy:
Black Diamond
Black Diamond Equipment is a major player in the ski industry. Founded in 1957 by Yvon Chouinard, the company has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality ski equipment, and could honestly be featured in most of our categories. Black Diamond is known for its commitment to innovation and sustainability, with a focus on producing environmentally responsible products. Their gear is favored by outdoor enthusiasts and professional skiers alike, making them a trusted name in the skiing industry.
Black Diamond has some pretty great customer service and warranty policies for their gear. We have had to use it several times.
Side note: Currently, our powder and all around backcountry setup is the Helio Recon 105 ski.
- Website: Black Diamond Equipment
- Favorite Products: Impulse series, Helio Carbon series
- Where to Buy:
Snowboards
It’s hard to talk about skiing without talking about snowboarding. Since the late ‘70s, snowboarding has developed alongside skiing as a mountain snowsport enjoyed by millions around the world.
Burton
Burton is a legendary ski and snowboard company with a storied history dating back to the late 1970s. It has since become an iconic and pioneering brand in the snowsports industry, renowned for its commitment to innovation and quality. Burton is perhaps best known for popularizing snowboarding as a mainstream sport and introducing the world’s first snowboard bindings.
- Website: Burton
- Favorite Products: Ripcord, Flying V, Family Tree Territory Manager
- Where to Buy:
Salomon
Salomon is known for its dedication to crafting high-quality outdoor equipment, including snow sports, trail running, and more. With a legacy dating back to 1947, the company brings decades of expertise to the snowboard industry. Salomon offers a diverse range of snowboards, boots, and bindings designed to cater to riders of all levels, with a focus on innovation and performance to elevate the snowboarding experience.
Salomon could also be in several categories on this list. To be honest, we leverage Salomon mostly for our trail running gear, but are seeing tons of people on skis and snowboards lately.
Arbor
Arbor is a well-respected snowboard company renowned for its commitment to sustainability and environmentally-conscious practices. Founded in 1995, the company has consistently integrated eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes into their snowboard production, making them a favorite among environmentally-conscious riders. Arbor’s snowboard lineup features a blend of innovative designs and craftsmanship, attracting riders who appreciate both performance and a commitment to preserving the natural environment.
- Website: Arbor Collective
- Favorite Products: Foundation Rocker, Ethos Rocker, Formula Rocker
- Where to Buy:
Bindings
Good bindings keep you in your skis– but also let you out of your skis in a crash, which is much safer than crashing with the skis attached. When shopping for bindings, make sure that you’re getting the right kind– alpine touring bindings and downhill bindings are not the same thing!
Marker
In 1952, a German ski instructor named Hannes Marker unveiled his invention at a sporting goods trade fair in Wiesbaden, Germany: the world’s first ski binding with a releasing toe. Like K2’s introduction of the fiberglass ski, Marker’s innovation changed the sport forever. Today, Marker bindings are some of the top bindings in the sport. They have both traditional alpine bindings as well as touring bindings.
Our first touring setup included some Marker Duke touring bindings. Heavy, but bulletproof with great performance.
- Website: Marker Bindings
- Favorite Products: Duke, Jester, Squire
- Where to Buy:
Tyrolia
This Austrian company is renowned for their innovative designs, precision engineering, and safety features for hobbyist and competitive skiing. Tyrolia bindings offer a range of options suitable for various skiing styles and abilities. They are also known for their commitment to safety research; their newest offering in the Protector series is designed for lightweight and female skiers based on the most recent health and safety research showing that female skiers in particular are three times more likely to suffer from skiing-based ACL injuries.
- Website: Tyrolia
- Favorite Products: Protector series, Attack series, Adrenalin
- Where to Buy:
Look
Look has been a pioneer in ski binding technology, introducing features like the pivot heel, which enhances power transmission and control. Their bindings are popular among skiers of all levels, from recreational enthusiasts to professional athletes, due to their precision, safety features, and responsiveness on the mountain.
- Website: Look Bindings
- Favorite Products: Pivot Forza, Pivot Harlaut, Pivot Black/Icon
- Where to Buy:
Ski Skins
If you enjoy backcountry skiing or ski touring, you will need ski skins. Ski skins are a piece of ski touring gear that allow you to travel uphill, an integral part of ski touring.
POMOCA
POMOCA has been in business since 1937, although this family-run operation has been associated with winter sports since 1870; family patriarch Louis Dufour was the first person to use skis in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. Since its beginning, the company has been known for its commitment to mountain sport safety and high quality ski gear.
POMOCA Climb 2.0 was our first set of skins. They are lightweight, have solid glide, good climbing capabilities, and have held up extremely well for multiple years of use.
- Website: POMOCA
- Favorite Products: Climb Pro Mohair, Free Pro 2.0, Climb 2.0
- Where to Buy:
Black Diamond
We promise we won’t feature Black Diamond too much in this list, but the ski juggernaut makes some really amazing skins, too.
- Website: Black Diamond Equipment
- Favorite Products: Glidelite Mix FL Skins, Ascension Nylon Climbing Skins, Glidelite Pure Climbing Skins
- Where to Buy:
G3
Founded in 1995 in Vancouver, G3 has been at the forefront of innovation in the ski industry, consistently producing high-quality equipment and accessories for both alpine and backcountry skiing. Their product range includes skis, skins, bindings, and other accessories designed to enhance the skiing experience, particularly in challenging off-piste terrain.
Our skis are fitted with the Alpinist series, which has held up while taking a serious beating.
- Website: Genuine Guide Gear
- Favorite Products: Alpinist + series, Minimist, Escapist series
- Where to Buy:
Snow Pants and Ski Bibs
Your snow pants or ski bib will help keep you warm and dry as you play in the powder. While there are plenty of great ski apparel brands out there, here are our favorites
Patagonia
Patagonia is simply legendary when it comes to outdoor apparel. Known for its commitment to environmental sustainability, Patagonia’s gear is some of the best available, and they consistently create innovative designs with fabrics designed for peak performance.
- Website: Patagonia
- Favorite Products: Storm Shift, Snowdrifter Bib, Powder Town
- Where to Buy:
The North Face
The North Face is a globally recognized outdoor apparel and equipment company that has been a leader in the outdoor industry for decades. Known for its high-quality gear, the brand offers a wide range of apparel at great prices. It’s a go-to choice for skiers around the globe.
- Website: The North Face
- Favorite Products: Freedom series
- Where to Buy:
Flylow
Flylow Gear is a popular outdoor apparel brand founded in 2005 by two avid skiers. Known for its durable and functional gear designed for skiing and snowboarding, Flylow emphasizes quality craftsmanship and performance. The company is recognized for its stylish yet rugged outerwear, catering to backcountry skiers who demand durability and protection in challenging conditions.
- Website: Flylow Gear
- Favorite Products: Baker Bib series, Snowman Bib
- Where to Buy:
Ski Jackets
Your ski jacket is one of the most important pieces of apparel when you’re out in the snow. Choosing a jacket isn’t just about the best fit and the best value; you also have to consider the performance you need. Different types of ski jackets do different things and are appropriate for different terrain and weather conditions; before buying a jacket, you first need to determine what you need that jacket to do! For more about that, check out our guide to hardshell versus softshell ski jackets. Then, check out these great brands to figure out which jacket is right for you.
Arc’teryx
Arc’teryx is a renowned Canadian outdoor apparel and equipment company known for its cutting-edge design and high-performance gear. Founded in 1989, the brand is celebrated for its meticulous attention to detail and innovative materials, particularly in the realm of technical outerwear. Arc’teryx’s ski jackets are beloved by by hobbyists and professionals alike for their durability, functionality, and minimalist aesthetic.
Helly Hansen
Hailing from the land of the midnight sun, the Norwegian brand Helly Hansen is a well-established Norwegian brand is famed for its durable ski and maritime apparel. They’ve been keeping people warm and dry since 1877, and their gear is known for its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. Their Helly Tech waterproofing system ensures that no snow is getting through your jacket.
- Website: Helly Hansen
- Favorite Products: Alpha 4.0
- Where to Buy:
Outdoor Research
Outdoor Research takes a highly technical approach to designing ski apparel. They are committed to cutting-edge R&D, meaning that their jackets hold up in extremely challenging mountaineering and backcountry skiing environments.
- Website: Outdoor Research
- Favorite Products: Skytour series, Carbide series
- Where to Buy:
Gloves and Mittens
Keeping your fingers free of frost is extremely important! With these great gloves and mittens, you’ll be able to hold onto your poles and not worry about exposure to the cold.
Hestra
Hestra is a Swedish company renowned for its premium-quality gloves and mittens, specializing in crafting handwear for various outdoor pursuits and professional use. With a heritage dating back to 1936, Hestra’s reputation is built on a deep understanding of materials, craftsmanship, and durability. Their gloves are highly regarded for their comfort, warmth, and attention to detail, making them a preferred choice for skiing.
- Website: Hestra
- Favorite Products: Army Leather Heli series, Power Heater series, Fall Line 3-Finger series
- Where to Buy:
Gordini
Gordini is a well-known brand in the winter sports industry, recognized for its extensive line of cold-weather accessories, primarily gloves and mittens. Founded in 1956 in Vermont, Gordini has decades of experience in crafting high-performance handwear that combines warmth, comfort, and durability. Their products are favored by skiers, snowboarders, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking reliable protection against harsh winter conditions.
- Website: Gordini
- Favorite Products: GTX Storm series
- Where to Buy:
Oyuki
Japanese company Oyuki’s products are known for their innovative designs and durable construction. Their gloves have a reputation for an amazing ergonomic fit, as well as warmth and weather resistance, making them great for the backcountry or the resort.
- Website: Oyuki
- Favorite Products: Pep GTX Trigger Mit, Chika Trigger Mitt
- Where to Buy:
Helmets
Helmets are the most important piece of safety gear you can have on the mountain. Without a helmet, falls and collisions become much more deadly. Don’t risk it– wear a helmet.
Smith
Smith ski helmets are well-regarded for their combination of safety, style, and innovation. With a commitment to rider safety, Smith integrates advanced technologies such as MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) into their helmets to reduce rotational forces in the event of an impact.
- Website: Smith Optics
- Favorite Products: Vantage MIPS, Level MIPS, Holt, Scout MIPS
- Where to Buy:
Giro
Perhaps best known for their bike helmets, Giro is known for their commitment to safety, innovative technology, and stylish designs in their ski helmets. They also make goggles that integrate nicely with their helmets, and use MIPS technology to ensure your head is protected.
- Website: Giro
- Favorite Products: Ledge MIPS, Emerge MIPS, Grid Spherical, Jackson MIPS
- Where to Buy:
POC
POC specializes in protective gear, including helmets, eyewear, and apparel, with a particular focus on snowsports and cycling. POC is widely recognized for its use of advanced materials and technologies to create products that prioritize skiers’ safety and performance, making it a trusted choice.
- Website: POC Sports
- Favorite Products: Obex MIPS
- Where to Buy:
Goggles
On a chill, low-snow resort day, you might get away with just regular sunglasses– but it’s better to wear goggles or glasses designed with skiing in mind. Goggles provide eye protection from the wind, snow, and UV radiation. They also make it easier to see in the low-contrast white world of snow by reducing glare and improving contrast, making it easier to navigate.
Smith Optics
Smith, listed above in our helmets section is one of the most widely used brands for goggles, and rightfully so. There available at just about every ski shop and online retailer.
- Website: Smith Optics
- Favorite Products: 4D Mag, Squad Mag
- Where to Buy:
Anon by Burton
Anon Optics is Burton’s brand of ski and snowboarding eyewear. Known for innovative design and premium quality, Anon provides riders with top-notch protection and visibility on the slopes.
- Website: Burton
- Favorite Products: M4 Toric MFI series, Sync series, M5 series
- Where to Buy:
Glade
A newer player in the ski optics scene, Glade goggles are made by skiers, for skiers. Their innovative designs evolve from the team’s passion for snowsports and love for the great outdoors.
- Website: Shop Glade
- Favorite Products: Adapt 2 series, Adapt 2S series
- Where to Buy:
Oakley
Did you think Oakley just made sunglasses? Oakley has a strong reputation for innovation, with patented technologies like High Definition Optics (HDO) to enhance optical clarity and impact resistance. The brand is widely favored for its commitment to performance and durability.
- Website: Oakley
- Favorite Products: Flight Deck L, Flight Deck M, Fall Line Prizm XM, Flight Tracker
- Where to Buy:
Media and Education
Now that you know what the best skiing gear companies are, where else can you go to find out about skiing? Here are some of the best places to get all the information you need about skiing.
Hiking and Fishing
At Hiking and Fishing, we’re passionate about all aspects of the great outdoors– and that includes skiing. Our skiing and ski touring articles are packed with the information you need to hit the slopes!
American Avalanche Association
If you’re going to be anywhere near the mountains, you need the information presented by the American Avalanche Association. This is doubly true if you plan on going off-piste; while resorts and monitored trails stay on top of avalanche risk for guests, if you’re in the backcountry, your safety is reliant on your and your group’s knowledge,. Know the risks and take a training course. Avalanche fatalities are rare, but they happen happen every year– don’t risk becoming a statistic.
Switchback Travel
Switchback Travel is a fantastic site for gear reviews and information. Their in-depth guide to ski equipment provides so much information about anything you could possibly want to buy, and their travel guides can help you plan the perfect ski trip.
Ski.com
With a url like ski.com, you would expect lots of great information about skiing and snowsports– and you’d be right! Ski.com’s blog is full of good information and articles about skiing. The website is your one-stop shop for planning and booking ski travel, and their information can help you plan your dream trip.
Skiing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors when it’s cold and snowy. Whether you’re shopping for equipment for the first time, or you’re looking to upgrade your existing gear, we hope this list of the best ski brands helps you find exactly what you need.
Max DesMarais is the founder of hikingandfishing.com. He has a passion for the outdoors and making outdoor education and adventure more accessible. Max is a published author for various outdoor adventure, travel, and marketing websites. He is an experienced hiker, backpacker, fly fisherman, backcountry skier, trail runner, and spends his free time in the outdoors. These adventures allow him to test gear, learn new skills, and experience new places so that he can educate others. Max grew up hiking all around New Hampshire and New England. He became obsessed with the New Hampshire mountains, and the NH 48, where he guided hikes and trail runs in the White Mountains. Since moving out west, Max has continued climbed all of the Colorado 14ers, is always testing gear, learning skills, gaining experience, and building his endurance for outdoor sports. You can read more about his experience here: hikingandfishing/about