The PlanetSKI 2026 Gear Tests: Direct From Canada

Meet the testers:

• James
• Kisia
• Tashie
• Alex
• Marie

Between them they are a mixture of ski instructors, journalists, recreational skiers, ski tourers and of course we have a local Canadian in the team (Marie).

You’ll find out more about them in the reviews that follow.

• Part One: Gear
• Part Two: Clothing
• Part Three: Odds ‘n’ Ends

We are not going to be comparing similar pieces of kit, but rather we’ve skied with dozens & dozens of items, then selected the ones that we think are worth reviewing and telling you more about them.

Some have not made the grade, others have.

They are all items we have used on a day-to-day basis around the mountains here in Canada in our 2-month stay.

We’re going to tell you why we like them, and what downsides they may have.

We will enthuse full on when we feel the gear is brilliant.

It is always difficult to get an exact price for items as there are so may online shops offering discount codes/reductions and then there’s the varying costs of delivery.

Plus we bought some of the items in Canada where generally things are much cheaper than the UK, especially with the favourable exchange rate.

Skis were so much cheaper.

And lets not mention Levi 501 jeans that are £40, as opposed to £100 in the UK.

Treat our prices as a ‘guide price’.

We take our own photos and don’t rely on glossy PR handouts.

First up it’s, Gear:

• Skis
• Goggles
• Helmets
• Heated gloves
• Heated socks
• Rucksacks
• Ski touring poles

Now this is Canada and it gets cold here.

Skiing in below -20℃ doesn’t happen all the time, but it occurs on a regular basis in the middle of winter.

We start with heated gloves and heated socks for those chilly days in the Canadian powder and on the Canadian groomers.

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Heated Gloves – Saviour Heat SKGP03FW – Tester: James 

£144.90

In Canada it can, and does, get seriously cold.

Below -20℃ on a regular basis in mid-winter so I took the plunge and invested in a pair of heated gloves.

I have never used heated gloves and now I simply can’t believe why not.

The Saviour Heat gloves are quite simply, brilliant.

 

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Here’s the techy stuff:

• 3Mth Thinsulate insulation
• Hipora waterproof membrane
• Breathable materials
• Smart APP Control
• Rechargeable Lithium Polymer Battery
• 10 hours of heating
• Fast charge – 2-hours fully charged

Top Tip – The gloves can be operated manually as explained in the video or via an App.

Do NOT let your child download the mobile App onto his phone when you are looking the other way as he can then turn them off/on and lower/raise the temperature at will.

Alex did both.

See more here: Saviour Heat.

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Heated Socks, Lenz heat socks – Tester: Alex

Price: Socks (£80) battery (£145)

As James said it is cold here in Canada, and feels it (especially when I turn his gloves off. Ha!).

I should know about the cold as I did three full seasons as a Level 3 ski instructor in Sunshine Village a few years back.

I now live her permanently with a season pass for the Ski Big 3 resorts.

It’s easy enough to wear more layers to keep your body warm, but when your toes and feet get cold then that is the end of skiing.

You will need to head indoors and warm up.

Foot frostbite is not unknown in Canada as people don’t realise quite how cold it can get.

Stepping into these warm and wooly protectors is my fail-safe method to keep my tootsies toasty warm, whatever the temperature.

The heat socks 6.1 toe cap® merino compression are the first heat socks with a toe cap® heating element, compression knitting technology and a high proportion of merino wool.

The improved fit on the cuffs offers more comfort when wearing with no uncomfortable cutting.

The fit of the socks is anatomically optimised and very tight.

Thanks to the compression knitting technique, signs of fatigue appear later during physical exertion.

All types of Lenz lithium battery packs can be attached to the sock waistband.

• Toe Cap® heating element heats the toes from above and below
• Thin compression sock especially for tight-fitting shoes
• Improved elasticity in the calf area
• Ergonomically knitted on left/right
• Ring bandage on the instep for better grip
• Reinforcements on the toes and heel
• Merino SoftTec® material mix for a scratch-free feel
• Can be operated with all “Body Heat System” lithium packs
• Washable at 30°C in the washing machine

The socks themselves are warm enough in themselves without the battery boost.

I tend to the turn on the batteries when it get down to -10°C, which it does often here in Canada.

So far the batteries have always lasted all day and then I just charged them up when I get back home.

If you are coming to Canada in the depths of our winter then I suggest you give these serious consideration.

You will not regret investing in a pair of heated socks and these are one of the best on the market in my opinion and come in at a reasonable price too.

The cheapest place I have found to buy them is Costco – UK membership works out here too.

See more here: Lenz heated socks

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Next up James and Alex look at skis: The Volkl Revolt 101 and the Volkl Mantra 88.

Ski – Volkl Mantra 88 – Tester: Alex

£400 in Canada (£680 in UK)

If you want a genuine all-mountain ski that neither veers towards the piste or the powder then this is the one.

The legendary Volkl Mantra.

It is powerful, strong and grippy on the Canadian groomers, remaining light and floaty in the Canadian pow.

Mine are 177cm in length.

The 2026 Völkl Mantra 88 is a redesigned, high-performance, all-mountain ski for advanced to expert skiers, offering maximum versatility, stability, and edge grip.

 

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Featuring a 134-88-114 mm sidecut, it delivers powerful turns on groomed, firm snow while incorporating a Tailored Carbon Tip and 3D Radius Sidecut for improved maneuverability and quicker, easier turn initiation.

Key features of the 2026 Mantra 88 include:

• Versatile Performance: Designed to bridge the gap between on-piste carving and off-piste, all-mountain capabilities, making it suitable for varied, challenging terrain.
• Technology & Construction: Utilizes a Multilayer wood core, Tailored Titanal Frame for dampness/stability, and Tailored Carbon Tips for agility.
• 3D Radius Sidecut: Features a 16m radius underfoot (in the 177cm length) for agility, with wider radii in the tip and tail for stability at high speeds.
• Geometry Updates: Redesigned with a wider tip (5 mm wider than previous models) and a slightly wider tail to enhance turn initiation.
• Target User: Aimed at strong, experienced skiers seeking a powerful, responsive, and stable ski, often serving as a narrower all-mountain or on-piste alternative.
• Specifications: Available in several sizes with a weight of approximately 1950g.

I have Marker bindings on my Mantras with my DIN set on 10.

And just in case you are wondering what DIN stands for,  it is Deutsches Institut fur Normung (German Institute for Standardization), which is the industry-standard scale for setting the release force on ski bindings.

So, now you know.

See more here: Volkl Mantra 88

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Skis, Volkl Revolt 101 – Tester: James 

Price: £580 in UK – £375 in Revelstoke where James bought his.

It is a fabulous all-mountain ski that caters to the off piste, and yet is still great here on the Canadian groomers.

I have found it particularly good on those steep un-groomed slopes with grippy and chalky snow.

Neither off piste, or on piste, but somewhere in the middle.

It is stiffer and heavier than the ski in my armoury that it replaces – The Atomic Vantage – but it still performs well in the powder.

It is designed for anyone looking for an easy-to-handle all-mountain ski for everyday use, which feels at home in a wide variety of conditions.

Perfect for Canada IMO.

 

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See this video from Volkl on the Revolt collection.

See more here: Volkl Revolt 101

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Smith Vantage 2 Ski Helmet – Tester: Kisia

Price: £260

The Smith Vantage 2 is a serious upgrade on an already popular helmet.

It’s lighter, smarter and packed with top-tier protection and it is so comfortable to wear and I like it even more than my previous Smith Vantage helmet.

Made by Smith Optics, it combines a lightweight hybrid shell with the latest full KOROYD technology for impressive energy absorption.

Plus the MIPS Safety System also helps to reduce rotational forces in angled crashes.

In short, the combination of the two technologies make the helmet feel reassuringly safe without feeling bulky.

It’s clever stuff, and in certain knocks it is arguably more progressive than traditional foam alone.

Comfort is spot on – the BOA 360 Fit System dial allows for micro-adjustments round the head for a precise fit, 40 vents keep airflow in check, and the magnetic Fidlock makes fastening/unfastening easy — even with gloves on.

Fogging Up – No chance with the AirEvac ventilation system that channels warm air away from your goggles with efficiency.

Premium, practical and built for long days on the mountain, the Smith Vantage 2 is a top-end helmet that justifies its price tag – from my perspective… it’s perfect.

 

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The Smith Vantage 2 Ski Helmet retails at £260 and is availabe from Ellis Brigham on this link

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Next up it’s goggles.

The PlanetSKI testing team begs to differ on the goggle front.

Tashie can’t see why people spend hundred of pounds when some of the ones at the lower end of the range perform just as well in her view.

James has a different opinion and believes goggles are more like a precision instrument and only the best will do.

Skoggl Goggles – Tester: Tashie

Price: £75

If you want an original product at an excellent price from a new kid on the block then look no further than Skoggl ski goggles.

They are a bargain at £75 in my opinion and have certainly done the job here in Canada with their UV400 protection and anti-fog tech.

Skoggl is an independent UK-based brand that was founded by brother and sister, Ben and Anna Mimi Jayson.

“The brand was born out of frustration that all goggles looked the same, boring and uninspiring,” said Ben and Anna.

 

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The Skoggl spherical lenses mimic the eye’s natural curve, offering wide peripheral vision and reduced glare.

Each lens has been tested in conditions down to -40°C  which is good as it has fallen below -30°C (with windchill) here in Canada.

It delivers anti-fog performance, UV 400 protection, scratch resistance, and dual-layer durability.

For the price, Skoggl delivers excellent quality in my opinion and are well worth looking at if you don’t want to fork out the huge amounts of money that the premium brands charge.

If James wants to spend a small fortune on goggle that is up to him.

See more here:  Skoggl Ski Goggles

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Goggles, Oakley 50th Anniversary/Prizm – Tester: James

Price: £325

Goggles are one of the most important pieces of ski kit in my opinion.

You don’t really notice good goggles, but you certainly notice bad ones where visibility is limited, draughts get in, fog builds up inside or they are simply uncomfortable.

On this trip to Canada I have the top-of-the-range Oakley goggles.

£325 well spent in my opinion.

The Oakley goggle combines advanced optics with a sustainable build to deliver all-mountain performance.

A conical lens paired with a re-engineered frame maximizes field of view, while Prizm 24K Snow technology fine-tunes contrast to reveal detail in shifting light.

Lens lamination minimizes fog and distortion, and Vision Rapt (VR) face foam ensures a pressure-free fit with clear sightlines.

It is finished with a bio-resin frame, recycled strap materials, and a protective case, this design emphasizes clarity, comfort, and durability.

 

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• Prizm 24K Snow Lens with Enhanced Contrast
• Conical Lens and Refined Frame for Wide Field of View
• Lens Lamination with Anti-Fog Treatment
• Vision Rapt 3D-Molded Face Foam
• Switchlock Technology with Mechanical Outriggers
• Extra Lens for Changing Conditions
• Bio-Resin Frame and Recycled Polyester Strap
• Includes Recycled Polyester Microbag and Protective Case

I believe that looking after goggles, Oakley or otherwise, is essential.

As I mentioned in the video I always put a cover on them when I take them off so they don’t get scratched.

I never rub the inner lens surface when wet.

Rather I shake the moisture/snow away and gently dab the remaining moisture with an absorbing tissue.

I view goggles as a precision instrument and treat them accordingly.

See more here: Oakley 50th Anniversary/Prizm

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Now with all this gear, plus the need to have additional layers when the temperature drops, you may need something to carry everything in.

Plus for use on any back country days.

Alex knows exactly which rucksack he likes.

Rucksack, the Mammot Nirvana 28 – Tester: Alex

Price: £145

There are ski rucksacks and then there are ski rucksacks.

The Mammot Nirvana 28 is without doubt one of the best on the market for any serious skier.

Whether it is carrying a few odds and ends, or going out for a full-on day on the slopes when you need avi gear, skins, safety kit + food and water.

The Nirvana is a true snow sports pack, optimised for freeriding and lift-supported ski touring.

Versatile and well-equipped with specialized winter features, the Nirvana 28 is the ideal partner for a wide range of plans.

Organize and stow all your gear with easy access to the main pockets.

 

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Features

• Recycled main material
• Full rear zipper access to the main compartment
• Integrated helmet carrier
• Front pocket for avalanche safety equipment
• Diagonal and A-frame ski carrying systems
• Snowboard attachment
• Attachments for ice tool and walking sticks
• Hydration system-compatible
• Integrated sleeve for Mammut Back Protector (sold seperately)
• SOS label with emergency instructions
• Back zipper access to main compartment

I have only had it a few weeks but people in Revelstoke and Kicking Horse noticed it on my back and have asked about it.

It is made of 90% Polyamide and 10% Polyester.

Accept no substitute.

See more here: Mammot Nirvana 28

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And for those days heading into the back country you will need some specialist ski touring poles if you want to get the most out of your day deep in the Canadian mountains.

James has no hesitation in thoroughly recommending these.

Komperdell Touring Poles, Titanal Exp Pro – Tester: James

Price: £114

There are dozens of ski touring poles on the market but the Austrian manufacturer Komperdell is one of the top of the range companies producing poles.

The Titanal Exp Pro poles combine the attributes of robustness and reliability in a single pole.

Thanks to the stability of Titanal, they offer the perfect balance for demanding ascents and descents.

The extra-long ergonomic grip provides superior comfort and the telescopic system with Komperdell’s Powerlock 3.0 (strongest) allows for effortless adjustment on different terrain heights.

It has a pack size of 65cm so fits comfortably in a rucksack when not in use, making it the perfect companion for most mountain/alpine adventures.

 

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They come with a 3-year warranty for repair and a no-quibble guarantee.

They can also be used for a multitude of other on-snow activities.

Here are just a few of the other times on this Canada trip they have come in more than useful.

On the groomers of course – I set them at 115cms.

But lets not forget snow-shoeing, ice walking and hiking.

As I said in the video, they may not the cheapest ski touring pole, but in my opinion they are one of the best.

If not THE best.

See more here: Komperdell Touring Poles, Titanal Exp Pro

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In the second review, to be posted next week, we are taking a closer look at clothing.

Jackets, pants, under-layers, boots and much more besides.

Do check back…

All the gear we selected was used and reviewed over a long period of time here in Canada.

We didn’t just do a few runs, take pictures and then take something else to test.

We used the item in all conditions and put them through their paces.

The tests were carried out in several resorts across Alberta and British Columbia: Sunshine Village, Lake Louise, Mt Norquay, Nakaska, Revelstoke, Kicking Horse and Marmot Basin.

Resort Reviews/Experiences:

• PlanetSKI resort review: Marmot Basin
• PlanetSKI resort review: Revelstoke
• PlanetSKI resort review: Kicking Horse
• Skiing the steeps of Sunshine Village
• Jasper rises from the ashes

Rolling Blog:

• PlanetSKI’s Canadian Adventures: Part One
• PlanetSKI’s Canadian Adventures: Part Two

Last season’s gear review came from Japan:

• The PlanetSKI 2025 Gear Tests – Direct from Japan

We are pondering where PlanetSKI will be based for an extended period next winter – for gear tests, reports and all the rest.

We like to select ski areas that have so much more to offer than people think.

Not just the skiing, but the whole winter experience.

We’re provisionally thinking Norway.

A country we love.

Watch this space…

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