Lead Photo Credit: POC

Are you ready to upgrade your ski and snowboard gear this winter? After months of trade shows spent gathering information as well as some in the wild testing, we rounded up the essential pieces every skier and snowboarder, should have. From helmets and goggles to travel pants, socks, gloves, and even the ski strap you didn’t know you needed this ski gear review has you covered.

Whether you’re gearing up for a road trip to your local hill, jet setting to chase pow or just want better comfort and performance on the mountain, here’s what stood out.

Looking for a new ski kit? Check out: 5 Game Changing Ski Kits Built for More Than Just The Slopes

Obex Connect Ski Helmet Review: A Smart, Lightweight Helmet for Everyday Skiers

Photo Credit: POC

The Obex Connect Ski Helmet ($600) instantly impressed with its next-level tech integration. The big win here is its ability to connect up to 8 users on the slopes in its private communication groups. This makes staying in touch with your peeps (who may be of varying abilities) that much easier.

Added bonuses include ts customizable fit making it feel secure but not tight, combined with smart features like impact detection and app-based safety connectivity.

What we liked:

Featherweight feel for all-day comfort
Excellent ventilation that keeps airflow high without freezing your brain
App-connected safety features for backcountry and big-mountain riders

This is a top pick for anyone who wants a modern, future-forward ski helmet without feeling like you’re riding around with a cinderblock on your head.

SB SOX Ski Socks: Compression Warmth That Actually Stays Put

Photo Credit: SB Sox

Are you tired of ski socks that become loose and saggy after only a few uses? Then the SB SOX Ski Socks ($39.95) will be a game changer for you. Light compression and moisture-wicking fabric offer breathability while keeping your lower legs supported and warm, even on back-to-back days.

Why they are worthy:

Compression reduces calf fatigue on long ski days
No slipping, sliding, or bunching
Great for multi-day ski road trips

For comfort and durability, these are an easy add to any skier’s kit.

Dragon Slain MAG Goggles: Ultra-Fast Lens Swaps + Crisp Visibility

Photo Credit: Dragon

The Dragon Slain MAG lineup (From $280) continues Dragon’s legacy of best-in-class optics with magnetic lenses that swap faster than a chairlift turn-around. Visibility is exceptional in flat light, thanks to LUMALENS tech, and the frame offers a wide view without feeling really bulky.

Standout features:

MAG system is one of the easiest lens-change setups on the market
LUMALENS clarity boosts contrast on storm days
Anti-fog powerhouse even on sweaty bootpacks

If you ski variable lighting conditions (which is pretty much all of us), these are a home-run.

Roark Men’s Layover Pro Travel Pants: The Best Ski Travel Pants of 2025

Photo Credit: Roark

The Roark Layover Pro Travel Pants ($99) are your newest travel companion. Built for adventure travelers who want comfort on the plane, stretch while on the move, and the durability to go everywhere. They also happen to look really good on too. So feel free to wear them around town and tell everyone who stops you how they have been a game changer in your sartorial travel wear wardrobe.

Why we’re wearing them on every trip:

Lightweight stretch fabric moves surprisingly well
Tons of smart pocket storage
Looks good whether you’re in the airport or après bar

These quickly became my go-to travel pants for this winter’s adventures.

Outdoor Research Vesper Insulated Hoodie: Lightweight Warmth for Layering

Photo Credit: Outdoor Research

The Outdoor Research Vesper Hoodie ($250) is a warm-but-light active midlayer that will complete your ski kit. It shines bright on cold resort days and while offering you a lighter option for early-morning tours. Breathable, packable, and comfortable it also makes and excellent choice for year-round travel, punching well above its weight in warmth.

Reasons it earns a spot in your ski pack:

Great warmth-to-weight ratio
Perfect midlayer under a shell
Packs down small for hut trips and travel

It’s one of the most versatile insulated hoodies of the season.

D_B_ Snow Roller Pro 70L: A Ski Roller Bag That Makes Travel Easy

Photo Credit: D_B_

The D_B_ Snow Roller Pro 70L ($269) reduces the stress of ski travel and makes it as streamlined as downhill racer. The construction is rugged, the wheels glide smoother than fresh waxed skis on a groomer, and the internal organization keeps skis protected and clothing in place, even on cross-country flights.

What stood out:

Spacious but not oversized
Great padding for skis
Durable materials built for heavy travel use

For multi-resort winter missions, it’s a must-have.

Rossignol Vizion 4B Pro 120 Boots: A Performance Fit With All-Day Comfort

Photo Credit: Rossignol

Let’s face it, as far as comfort goes, ski boots suck. However, the Rossignol Vizion 4B Pro 120 ($799.95) aims to change that. Rossignol’s new fit profile hits the sweet spot: secure heel hold, roomy enough toe box, and smooth flex for aggressive but comfortable skiing…it has it all. But what really steals the show is their new hands free step in design. Being able to slide right into a responsive, powerful feeling boot without crushing your feet is an absolute game changer.

Why they perform:

Step in technology = slip on ease
Strong lateral support for carving
Impressively comfortable for a performance boot

These boots make charging hard snow and variable terrain feel confident and controlled.

Seirus 3-N-1 Gloves: Warm, Modular, and Built for Storm Days

Photo Credit: Seirus

The Seirus Heatwave Whiteout 3-N-1 Gloves ($139.99) are a modular system that lets you adapt to the conditions. The genius, is in the name and its 3 components. The waterproof shell keeps you dry on storm days, while the removable liner is perfect for warmer sessions or spring skiing or wear it all together for the perfect mid-winter glove.

Why they’re worth it:

Versatile for changing temps
Waterproofing holds up in heavy snow
Thinsulate insulation keeps fingers warm without bulky weight

It’s a one-glove quiver for most skiers.

Clipstic Ski Strap: The Smallest Piece of Gear That Makes the Biggest Difference

Photo Credit: Clipstic

No one, and I do mean no one ever looks cool carrying their skis and poles. That is until now. The Clipstic Ski Strap holds your skis and poles together securely without the bulk of traditional Velcro straps. It’s lightweight, pocket-friendly, and makes carrying skis and organizing them for travel way easier. Simple, smart, and wildly useful this is the item you never knew you needed.

Why you’ll love it:

Easy, fast ski carry solution
Minimal weight and size
Perfect stocking stuffer or small-gear upgrade

If you carry skis often (you do), this is a no-brainer.

Final Thoughts: The Best Ski Gear to Upgrade Your 2025 Season

From the best ski helmet to the top ski travel gear, goggles, layers, and accessories, this year’s lineup is all about comfort, performance, and convenience. No matter where you are skiing or snowboarding, the right gear makes every turn better. So if you’re upgrading gear this winter, these pieces earned their place on our must-bring list for 2025 and should be on yours.

About the Author

Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski lifestyle clothing and media brand, All About Après. He is also the co-host of the Après All Day Podcast. No stranger to the ski and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor for many publications on topics like skiing, travel, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is on the slopes and enjoying good times with good people. You can find him perfecting his craft carving turns and drinking beers in the Green Mountains of Vermont. @allaboutapres