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Dear Santa 2004
Winter Waxed Lyrical
Christmas gets dialed in for powderhounds

By Douglas Gantenbein

Atomic M:11 Puls-Ti Skis ($749; www.atomicski.com):
Did someone say "all-mountain"? That's where the M:11s go—they're a big, tough ski with lots of float and sidecut to rip through crud and turn through the trees. Titanium rods help improve control and transmit every twitch of your boot to the ski. Be merry—it's time to ski!
K2 Armada Snowboard Boots ($220; www.k2snowboards.com):
Dash through the snow in the Armadas. These freestyle-inspired boots have a new internal lacing system and comfortable air soles for soaking up the big hucks.
Boeri Switch Ski Helmet ($119; www.boeriusa.com):
The Switch will render your cranium all but crash-proof, with a tough polycarbonate shell, fresh-air ducts, and an adjustable fit that accommodates any noggin.
Dakine Rover Glove ($90; www.dakine.com):
Whether skiing or snowboarding, cold hands won't do. Dakine's Rover has a weather-batting Gore-Tex shell, warm Primaloft insulation, and, perhaps best of all, a nifty plastic ridge affixed to the right thumb for scraping icy crud off your skis.
Patagonia Vapor Bowl Jacket ($350; www.patagonia.com):
Throw the Vapor Bowl over a midweight insulation piece and hit the slopes. This soft-shell jacket has a fleece lining bonded to its tough outer shell to create a piece that breathes well yet keeps you warm. And the fit and construction are both superb.

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