Ski gear has changed dramatically over the decades, with modern skis, boots, clothing and accessories looking very different from what was used by skiers several generations ago. Despite those advances, plenty of skiers continue to rely on equipment that has survived years of use on the mountain.
We recently asked Unofficial Networks readers what the oldest piece of ski gear they still use today is. The responses included vintage skis, poles, gloves, jackets, hats and other equipment that have remained part of their skiing lives for decades.
Some Ski Gear Has Survived for Generations
One of the oldest responses came from a skier who said they still have “1949 northland bamboo poles with updated grips and baskets.” The nearly eight-decade-old poles are an great example of just how long some ski equipment can survive when properly maintained.
Another reader went even further back by saying they still have their parents’ ski and mountaineering equipment from the 1940s and 1950s. The response did not identify one specific piece that is still being used, but it was among the oldest equipment mentioned in the discussion.
Ski poles were among the most common answers. One skier reported using Kerma poles from 1975, while another still uses K2 Fries poles from the early to mid 1970s. The latter skier said the poles were used for more than 300 days in Crested Butte between 2008 and 2011 and are still being used today.
Another skier reported mid-70s Hart Ramy poles with their original straps and wrote “I never set them down.” Other readers reported poles from 1985, 1986 and around 1988.
Vintage Skis and Clothing Still See Ski Days
Skis from previous generations also remain in use. One reader reported a pair of 1978 Vuarnet sunglasses along with K2 710 and 910 skis. Another said they still use 30-year-old Vollant Powercarves. A separate skier has Volant Machetes from around 1998 and Bolle glacier glasses of a similar age. Another reported a 1991 Degré 7 one-piece suit that still comes out for retro days at the end of the season.
Older clothing continues to earn its place in ski closets as well. One reader has a Descente parka from more than 25 years ago and said, “I love old Descente gear….wears like iron.” Another still uses a cold-weather ski patrol jacket from the 1980s.
Other responses included 40-year-old Reusch racing gloves, a Rossi pom pom hat from the 1980s, a 30-year-old base layer and a neck gaiter that is more than 21 years old. When a favorite pair of skis, poles or piece of clothing continues to perform after decades on the mountain, there is plenty of reason to keep using it.
