The 2013 SIA Snow Show in Denver attracted close to 20,000 attendees, with 900-plus snow sports brands. SAM scoured the floor in search of the latest and greatest products for resort visitors and employees. Here’s what we found.

 

Giro Combyn Helmet
The first in a new category of snow helmets that Giro calls “soft-shell” technology, the Combyn employs a patent-pending, impact-absorbing liner made with Vinyl Nitrile foam. The two foam layers allow the helmet to manage both high- and low-energy impacts. And unlike traditional EPS or EPP helmet liners, the VN material is soft and flexible. The Combyn will pass the standard impact test multiple times over, making it park- and pipe-friendly. MSRP: $120. www.giro.com


Rossignol 7 Series
Rossignol’s 7 Series line introduces a patented lightweight construction technology called “Air Tip.” The ski’s honeycomb design reduces the overall weight, and trims the swing weight by nearly 30 percent. In addition, the 7 Series features a visco elastomer material that smooths the rocker/camber transition, reducing “tip flap” and increasing stability. MSRP: $599-$799. www.rossignol.com


Bench Apparel
In its second year in the U.S. market, Bench designs ski-to-street apparel with technical details strategically placed in refined, fashion-forward styles and cuts. Bench offers everything from après styles for women and men to its über-technical outwear lines, including both jackets and pants. www.bench-usa.com


Airhole Facemasks
Originally designed by two pro snowboarders who needed to breathe more easily, Airhole’s hand-knitted facemasks are made with antibacterial coating and are available in 10 weather-resistant fabrics. The airhole allows wearers to talk and drink more easily, too, while affording protection from the elements. Available in more than 210 designs. MSRP: $19.99 - $34.99. www.airholefacemasks.com


K2 Grom Series
K2’s Noodle Ski System is a unique technology in the Groms series. The disadvantage in most junior skis is stiffness, due to the minimum thickness required to retain binding screws. With the Noodle system, K2 eliminates screws by fusing a mounting plate to the ski. K2 has thinned the ski’s core to provide a smooth-flexing, comfortable ride. Available on the boy’s Indy model and girl’s Luv Bug. MSRP: $156-$300. www.k2skis.com


Spyder Work Glove
Spyder engineered its all-new work glove for any on-hill worker. Combining goat-skin leather, carbon-fiber knuckles, abrasion-resistant piecing on the palm, padded leather finger protection, over-the-cuff gauntlet, pre-curved articulated fit, a waterproof membrane, and Thinsulate insulation, they’re made to withstand serious wear and tear. MSRP: $100. www.spyder.com


Ortovox Transceiver Checkpoint
New to the U.S. market for 2013-14, the Ortovox Transceiver checkpoint helps resorts increase safety standards and provide consistent signage. The Check-point is a fully customizable and dedicated unit that integrates a standard message with a pass-by beacon test for skiers and riders heading beyond a dedicated resort exit gate. The Checkpoint provides both auditory and visual signals that the departing beacon is on and functioning properly. MSRP: $1,599, including a 32” x 40” custom-branded display panel. www.ortovox.com


Arcade Belts
Built for movement and designed to fit better and last longer than leather belts, Arcade belts are made from high tensile elastic. The jacquard weave guarantees the stretch fabric will last for years. Available in six unisex styles. MSRP: $24-$26. www.arcadebelts.com


Goggle Grip
Simple, but effective. New to the snowsports market, Goggle Grip’s mini and micro goggle grips mount to the side of the helmet via 3M VHB adhesive to secure the goggle strap when placed on top of the helmet, eliminating strap slippage. Available in black, clear and white. MSRP: $16-$21. www.gogglegrip.com

KrochetKids

A new exhibitor to SIA this year, Krochet Kids employs women in Peru and Uganda—every product is hand-signed by the person who made it, carrying her story wherever it goes. Profits are used to employ, educate and mentor the women in Peru and Uganda. The line includes a full range of hats, scarfs, gloves, bags and apparel for adults and kids. MSRP: $22-$100. www.krochetkids.com


Royal Shaft Poles
Royal Shaft rental pole program offers a choice of composite, aluminum or carbon poles equipped with ergonomically-designed straps. Royal Shaft offers 40+ custom-made designs, or you can add a resort’s name and logo. Wholesale: $16-$18, www.royalshaft.com.


Burton Rental Combo
Burton brings its Process V-Rocker technology and Progression Mission binding system to the rental market for 2013-14. The board comes with a burly top sheet for extra durability. The Progression Mission binding’s Re:Flex disc technology allows for more board bend and feeling. The combination offers advanced performance rental boards for riders who are ready to up their game. Profession Mission wholesale $160. Process Flying-V wholesale $220. www.burton.com