May 13, 2013 (Tabernash, CO) – Here’s one of our 2014 product vids that was missed during our coverage of the SIA 2013 Demo at Devils Thumb in Tabernash, Colorado where SkiTrax caught up with Atomic’s Isaac Wilson who introduces the newly released Boa Race Skate boot for 2013/ 2014 – the only skate boot on the market using the Boa system.

March 07, 2013 (Devil’s Thumb Ranch, CO) – Karhu is back in the U.S. after a few years of absence from the market. The brand, which is best known for its line of ski touring equipment, has a huge range of gear for the 2013/14 season, including cross-country skis and boots. The company has now partnered with Craft, known for endurance sport clothing, and is now introducing a new line of eyewear to complete the comprehensive Nordic and back country ski touring equipment line-up.

February 22, 2013 (Devil’s Thumb Ranch, CO) – Check out these videos of Alpina’s latest offerings for the 2013/14 season, including Alpina Action and ASK skis and boots, Alpina ESK Pro Skate boot, and Yoko’s 7100 HS Carbon Skate Pole. With its bold graphics and affordable price points, Alpina’s Action skis and ASK line of boots are aimed at a younger market of skiers that Alpina feels has been overlooked in the past. The brand’s newly redesigned ESK Pro skate boot is a top-of-the-line race boot based on a Rottefella sole and features the stiffness, fit, and performance that top level skiers expect.

New 2013/2014 Yoko 7100 HS Carbon Skate Pole.mov

February 06, 2013 (Devil’s Thumb Ranch, CO) – SkiTrax caught up with Salomon’s Isaac Wilson at the SIA Show Demo at Devil’s Thumb Ranch in Colorado. Wilson introduced the brand’s new S-Lab ski and boot line being launched for 2013/2014…stay tuned for more video coverage from DTR.

January 31, 2013 (Salt Lake City, UT) – Check out our Part 2 videos direct from the show floor at the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market held Jan. 23-26 in Salt Lake City where the winter sports industry from around the globe gathered to display and sample the hottest winter gear for the upcoming 2013/2014 season. We caught up with Svein Pedersen of Swix showed off the new Triac pole, Pierre Perron of Louis Garneau highlighted the company’s newly redesigned nordic clothing collection and Thule’s Adam Donahue showed us the new Sonic Alpine box featuring the line’s lowest profile design.

January 31, 2013   (Salt Lake City, UT) – During the second half of the Outdoor Retailer Winter Tradeshow in Salt Lake City, SkiTrax focused on the apparel and accessory side of the Nordic world. The new product offerings brought some exciting  product innovations as well as some improvements on old classics.

Auclair
One of Auclair’s best developments was its improvements on a classic performance glove, the Finlander. This is an improved version of the glove that Billy Demong used to ski to Olympic gold in Vancouver. Auclair removed the piping on the top of the glove, and this provides a seamless transition between the glove and pole strap. The glove is also more wind resistant than previous models.

Auclair has developed a warmer ski glove called the Alex Races, named after Canadian Alex Harvey. The Alex Races features the same seamless upper as the Finlander, and provides a bit more warmth than other models. Auclair’s lineup is highlighted by its versatility. A new unnamed prototype light glove could be used for roller skiing, while a lobster claw glove named the Alaskan Crab can be used in temperatures well below 0 degrees (F).

Auclair’s most unique development for 2014 is a new glove cover that Velcro attaches over your existing gloves, and can be put on while the skier is attached to pole straps. This allows the skier to remove the glove after a warm-up, and prior to race.

Bjorn Daehlie Clothing

Bjorn Daehlie has a couple of new jackets that they are featuring for 2013/2014. The first is the new Cross jacket, which is the brand’s “do everything” jacket. It features many elements of Bjorn Daehlie clothing that we’ve seen in the past: stretch panels in the shoulders and under the arms for freedom of movement, and wind and water resistant fabric on the front and main panels for warmth. The new features are the reflective elements in the seams for reflectivity. The new Champion jacket is what the US Ski Team will wear next year. The Champion features the same safety/reflective features while providing more of a “racer’s fit”, and waterproof panels.

Sporthill

Sporthill will enter 2014 with more than a few great products. The Whistler jacket is a great light weight pick. Water proof up to 10,000mm of standing water, and windproof up to 40mph, this jacket would be a great pick for a wet and windy fall training day. The Callaghan pant, cut for both men and women, is gram for gram the warmest pant on the market. The pants are made from a woven polypropylene fabric that is slightly thicker than most but is probably the most comfortable pant around. If you are looking for a warm, breathable, comfortable pant that is windproof up to 37mph, look no farther than the Callaghan pant from Sporthill.

2XU

2XU is the official compression wear supplier of the US Ski Team. In the past, people have thought of the base layer as being simply thermal. Compression adds a new element to the base layer. Compression can do multiple things. It can improve posture, influence muscle containment, and influence circulation in particular muscle groups to improve performance. Significant amount of study has been done to determine the positive effects of compression in recovery. Many of the US Ski Team’s top athletes in both alpine and Nordic have used the compression socks for recovery and to promote circulation during long flights to feel rested and quick after a long day of travel. Of course fit is of the utmost importance, so remember to take care when sizing these compression products to ensure you get the perfect fit.

Leki

On the performance side, Leki’s new Strike Carbon pole is an improvement on its popular Shark line. While the Leki poles may be a bit heavier than other high-end brands, they have uncompromising durability, and are as stiff as anything on the market. The poles also feature great and improved grips with a new notch near the top of the grip to provide a more ergonomic fit. The line of gloves has also been built upon. The gloves feature an integrated trigger system so the transition between glove and ski grip in absolutely seamless. Leki is a great brand to pick for performance and functionality.

Thule
Thule has one new box that may catch the Nordic skier’s eye. The Sonic Alpine box for 2014 can accommodate skis up to 213cm long. It features an innovative dimpled design at the nose that has lowered the box’s drag coefficient by 10%. The box is also the lowest profile box that Thule has on the market, with a height profile of only 11in. The box comes in silver and black, and is a great looking box for any Nordic skier looking to stash their gear away from the harmful effects of salty roads.

Sugoi

Sugoi has added a number of products to their line. The company has traditionally had a summer, bike and running focus, but is making a strong move into the winter world this year. The line features a layering system with a number of high tech fabrics. The style is definitely reminiscent of the products that Sugoi has brought to the cycling world, but they bring a level of functionality that rivals all the usual cross country focused brands. Sugoi has also moved into accessories for cross country – everything from socks, hats and gloves, to Velcro ankle wraps to keep snow from getting into your boots. Sugoi is definitely a brand to check out for 2014.

January 28, 2013 (Salt Lake City, UT) – The Outdoor Retailer Winter trade show was in Salt Lake City from Jan. 23-26 in full force. Hundreds of manufacturers from around the globe converged to show off their hottest winter gear for the upcoming 2013/2014 season. SkiTrax was there to catch a glimpse and provide highlights of some awesome new high tech products that the Nordic world will be dying to get their hands on.

Fischer
The secret to Fischer’s new 2014 Speedmax skis lies in their construction. The entire ski is constructed separately from the base. It has long been known that high temperatures and pressure that are present in conventional ski pressing can damage the molecular structure of the base. Fischer worked hard to perfect their unique process of Cold Base Bonding. By bonding the base to the rest of the pre-constructed ski without heat, the Speedmax skis feature a base that is able to maintain the homogeneity of the original molecular structures. As a result, the base is able to accept more wax and features unrivaled gliding properties. The glue that bonds the base is also temperature neutral, so no matter what the temperature is, Fischer claims that the ski will maintain its flex profile. The Austria-based company hopes that these new skis will take more than a couple of athletes to the podium at the 2014 Olympic Games next year in Sochi.

Swix
Our visit to the Swix booth left us with a couple “wow” moments as the new Triac pole is in a class of its own. The pole is 20% stiffer than the previous model, while maintaining the same great swing weight. The pole features a triangular cross section and is set for a pre-launch at the upcoming World Championships in Val di Fiemme, Italy before a launch to the public this fall. However, according to Product Manager Svein Pederson, a sample pair has already been out on the World Cup course after he let Petter Northug test a pair a month ago, and the Norwegian star refused to return them.

Swix has also come out with a brand new wax iron. If you thought the T71 iron Swix sold last year was thick, wait until you see the T70 – this is an extreme waxing iron. The 35mm plate can hold high stable temperatures that enable the wax tech to apply high purity fluoros without burning the base. At a $1,000 retail price, the iron should be used by those seeking waxing perfection, regardless of cost.

Swix has developed a great relationship with Gore-Tex for their glove line over the past two seasons and this year they integrated Gore-Tex into a new line of warm, windproof jackets.

Rossignol

The X-ium lineup has some big changes for the 2013/2014 season. Some changes in the camber profiles and pressure distribution on the glide zones are the major changes on the cold skis the S1 (skate) and C1 (classic). The big changes for the skate line come in the S3 where more tip splay and a softer profile will allow the tip to fly over slush, and give the skis a nice, buttery feel. They feature a translucent base with no carbon added. The base is a bit denser, and allows the factory to put in a more stable, deep structure that will hold up over time, and eliminate suction in slush. The classic world cup level line features five different skis. The C1 will run great on cold hardpack while the C2 is a bit softer and is a wider range traditional classic ski. The C2 R-Grip has a synthetic kick zone that has a hairy zone that isn’t very aggressive so hardwax can be overlayed when conditions permit. For warm classic skiing, Rossi offers a traditional warm C3 ski, and just like on the skate side, there’s an additional C3 version with a harder white base on the tip and tail, with a softer traditional black base in the kickzone to hold wax more effectively.

Alpina
Alpina’s latest development comes in the form of the new ESK skate boot. The heel is a bit lower in the KSK Pro than in the traditional ESK. This works in conjunction with the new Rottefella Xcelerator bindings, to provide more force through the front of the foot, in addition to providing a more natural stance. The boot is a bit stiffer than in the past to provide a nice snappy feel. An improved lacing system and a removable cuff also provide the opportunity for a custom-style fit and feel.

Madshus

Madshus’ new Super Nano boots, already seen on the feet of top biathletes Emil Hegle Svendsen and Ole Einar Bjorndalen, along with rising US star, Noah Hoffman, were another show stopper. The new Nanos are significantly lighter and stiffer than previous versions as Madshus utilized more carbon fiber while limiting the amount of extra plastic in the sole. We tried on the Super Nano in conjunction with their new Redline carbon skate ski, and it felt like there was nothing on our feet. The swing weight and light feel were unparalleled and Madshus says the advances in performance don’t compromise the new boot’s comfort or warmth. Built with a lower volume in the forefoot, the Super Nano feels a bit softer on the top of the foot, while providing great stability on the bottom – a great all-around bomber boot worth checking out.

Craft/Karhu
Craft has improved upon their underwear lineup for 2014 with their new High Function models. The new line has improved on the seams with better fit adjustments compared to previous models.

One of the most exciting developments in the cross-country ski industry is the return of Karhu to the North American market. While Karhu never left the race scene in Scandinavia, they are making their return to North America in 2013/2014 featuring the skate 1.0 which is a high performance racing ski. The cold ski comes with a soft and stiff version as does the warm ski. We are really excited to get on the skis and see how they feel.

Karhu boots are based on the Rottefella sole and binding system. Due to the excellent vertical flex of the boot’s sole structure, kick power is transferred efficiently to deliver the maximum power to the forefoot and toes.

Karhu has further developed the fit, materials and skiing comfort of both their classical and skating ski boots. Light cuffs and other technical solutions will satisfy the needs of a demanding skier. The warm inner sock and flexible lace cover material possess water repellent properties.

May 14, 2012 (Denver, CO) – The 2012 SIA Snow Show, launching all that’s new for 2013, was held in Denver, CO earlier this year and SkiTrax caught up with many exhibiting companies to find out about their latest product offerings from the top end on down, including some fun stuff, for next season. Part 2 of our series of interviews offers a look at what’s new from from Rossignol, Atomic, Toko, and more from Swix – plus we stop in at the Madshus Aquavit Party…

May 11, 2012 (San Antonio, TX) – Earlier today, SnowSports Industries America (SIA) announced to their Board of Directors the 2013 SIA Snow Show (Jan 31-Feb 3, 2013) had officially reached “sold-out” status for exhibitor booth space at the Colorado Convention Center. The announcement came during SIA’s annual spring Board of Directors meeting, being held this week in-conjunction with the NSAA (National Ski Areas Association) National Convention & Trade Show in San Antonio, Texas. Although Snow Show exhibitor booth space is currently sold-out, SIA will maintain a waiting list for interested companies.

SIA’s Board of Directors also voted to not increase booth space fees for the 2013 SIA Snow Show, which represents seven years of booth fees remaining the same.

“After this season’s less than stellar snowfall, it’s encouraging to see our industry continue to stay positive and look to the future. Selling out booth space this far in advance certainly speaks to the relevance of the Snow Show and its importance to the entire snow sports community,” commented SIA’s Chair, Tim Petrick.

The 2013 SIA Snow Show is scheduled for January 31-February 3, 2013 at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver and expects to draw thousands of attendees including suppliers, retailers, reps, athletes and professionals from the snow sports industry. SIA’s On-Snow Demo/Ski-Ride Fest will follow the Snow Show at Winter Park Resort and Devil’s Thumb Ranch from February 4-5, 2013.

“The great thing about the SIA Snow Show is that you get to see entire lines as well as browse for things that may fill gaps. Comparing sales statistics and products regionally is great, but it’s even better to hear what people on the other side of the Mississippi are saying. I feel by going to Denver you get a true sense of the over-all industry vibe,” commented Breg Culver, owner of Sliders Snowboard Shop based in Colden, NY.

The SIA Snow Show consistently provides the most authentic and relevant show experience for the snow sports industry. In fact, 94% of exhibitors and 96% of retailers surveyed this year met their objectives at the SIA Show. The SIA Show floor presented 96% of the supplier snow sports market share with 80.7% of the industry’s retail buying power (a 3% increase over 2011) in attendance to see the latest in snow. The 2012 Show included 334,640 net square feet, 470 exhibitors, 927 brands as well as over 1,000 television, radio, newspaper and online journalists covering the new products, events, appearances, concerts and parties that happen only during the SIA Snow Show.

“The SIA Snow Show is a resounding success for our company; it’s the perfect blend of business, fun, and snowboarding. The positive vibe that emanated from this year’s Show has come around full circle with SIA selling out this early,” added Dan Sullivan, Director of Sales, Rome Snowboards.

“The Snow Show is really the only place where all the companies bring together their infrastructure for the industry to meet and discuss pending issues, future ideas, problems, solutions, etc,” said Andrew Shaw, rep for Marker Volkl USA, Baffin Polar Proven, Bern Unlimited, Seirus Innovations, Superfeet, and Under Armour.

During the two-days of the On-Snow Demo/Ski-Ride Fest, snow sports retailers and media test out gear and accessories previewed at the Show including ski, snowboard, Nordic, AT, and backcountry products while other attendees get time on the slopes/trails and hang with industry friends. The Demo is hosted in-conjunction with the Western Winter Sports Reps Association’s (WWSRA) Rocky Mountain Demo and in partnership with Cross Country Ski Areas Association (CCSAA).

For updates on events, seminars and general information regarding next year’s Snow Show and On-Snow Demo, please visit siasnowshow.com. And for 24/7 updates on fashion, industry news and SIA year-round member programs, visit the SIA Social Dashboard and stay connected with SIA’s Facebook page, Twitter feeds (#SIA13), photos and videos.

March 18, 2011 (Mclean, VA) – The Board of Directors for SnowSports Industries America (SIA) today announced a shift in SIA Snow Show dates to an earlier mid-January time slot beginning in 2013. The Snow Show will begin on Saturday, January 12th and run through Tuesday, January 15th at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colorado. The On-Snow Demo will follow the Show at Winter Park Resort and Devil’s Thumb Ranch on January 16th and 17th.

In 2014, the SIA Snow Show will follow the same mid-January pattern and begin on Saturday January 11th through Tuesday, January 14th followed by the On-Snow Demo on January 15th and 16th. This mid-January/Saturday start will be used for all future Snow Show dates. SIA will be working closely with buying groups, regional rep associations and retailer associations to make this transition as smooth as possible.

The Board’s decision came after analysis of the industry’s current buy/sell cycle, changing production lead times, as well as date conflicts with major holidays and trade events including an overlap with ISPO beginning in 2012. Given all of the factors and constituencies SIA’s Board had to consider, the goal was to provide Show dates that would benefit the majority of the industry.

“In 2002, the SIA Snow Show was moved from March to January with the goal of creating a national show to kick off the buy/sell cycle where retailers could truly ‘See it, Try it, Buy It’. With the increase in private line previews, regional and national trade shows, the Board of Directors felt the Show needed to adjust to changes in the marketplace,” commented David Ingemie, SIA’s president.

Beyond making the SIA Snow Show the national trade event, the Board is optimistic the earlier Show dates will also:
– Recognize the globalization of product manufacturing, which requires earlier production and delivery times ensuring on-time delivery to retailers and ultimately consumers
– Avoid schedule conflicts with international, national and regional shows
– Ensure the success of members with U.S. headquarters attending both SIA and ISPO shows — both essential to the growth of their business
– For 2012, the SIA Snow Show dates will continue with the Show’s previous end-of-January timing on January 26-29 at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colorado followed by the On-Snow Demo at Winter Park and Devil’s Thumb Ranch on January 30-31.

www.siasnowshow.com