SKIS, BOOTS, & ACCESSORIES

Rossignol Actys 100 XPI

An inexpensive ski that still handles well. It’s designed for stable, easy turning on groomers. Make this your first ski and you’ll be able to grow into it over the next few years. $320 (with bindings). www.rossignol.com.

Atomic Metron 11

It’s the most versatile, all-mountain ski around. “It has a lot of sidecut so it makes any turn you need, but it’s fat enough for mushy spring skiing,” our expert says. $859 (skis only). www.atomicsnow.com.

Dynastar Contact ST09

This is for you resort speed demons who love carving perfect turns. It’s definitely an on-trail ski, but that’s perfect for this neck of the woods. $915 (with bindings). www.dynastar.com.

Atomic T11 Boot

The SUV of boots handles any conditions and has a heat moldable footbed and an ankle flex zone for custom fit. “I couldn’t imagine skiing anything else,” our expert says. Ideal for advanced skiers. $600. www.atomicski.com. Editors’ Chocie and Readers’ Choice:

Smith Prodigy Turbo Fan Goggles

Finally, a true no-fog goggle. A silent fan runs continuously to keep air circulating across the lens. How cool is that? $180. www.smithoptics.com.

Salomon Performa 4 Boot

A soft boot with lots of flex and an emphasis on comfort. “It’s not as stiff as an advanced boot, but unless you’re cranking it up, this does the job in comfort,” our expert says. $275. www.salomonski.com. Best Value:

Cloudveil Black Ice Gloves

Seriously warm gloves with all the trimmings, including a zip-in heater pocket. $145. www.cloudveil.com.

Red Hi Fi Helmet

It could be the lightest helmet on the market, and it’s MP3 ready so you can jam to Huey Lewis and the News-or whatever you kids are into these days. $99. www.burton.com.

Marker M3 Helmet

Most helmets are only designed to withstand one impact. The M3 can handle multiple impacts and still keep your noggin safe. $129. www.markerusa.com.

SNOWBOARDS & JACKETS

Salomon Prospect

A freestyle board designed for the park. Our expert says the Prospect is “high-end performance for chump change.” $399. www.salomonsports.com.

Burton Feelgood ES (women)

A lightweight, all mountain dominatrix. “It’s a well rounded board, but it likes to be ridden aggressively,” our expert says. $600. www.burton.com.

Burton Custom X

Is it possible for one board to be all things to all people? Parkies love it, cruisers cherish it, and posers just like to hang out with it. $600. www.burton.com.

Arc’teryx Stingray Comp Jacket

More weather protection than a softshell, more breathable than your standard hardshell. A smart combo for the Southeast’s wet winters. $499. www.arcteryx.com.

Ride Englewood Parka Jacket

Serious waterproofing because park rats spend a lot of time buried in the snow. Ridiculously low price because most park rats don’t have jobs. $139. www.ridesnowboards.com.

Helly Hansen Leah Jacket

A solid hardshell for those rainy, windy, icy days that seem to be common down here. $250. www.hellyhansen.com.

Solstice Alpine Hybrid Jacket

Waterproof hood and shoulders and a breathable body with microshed technology. “It’s breathable and waterproof and it won’t put you in the red,” our expert says. $169. www.solsticegear.com.

Isis Sophia Jacket

Finally, a jacket contoured for women. Wind and waterproof. Outperforms every other soft-shell on the slopes, according to our wear-testers. Superior comfort and style. $185. www.isisforowmen.com.