Light weights and minimalism in the backcountry: that seems to be the theme in the newest offerings from Black Diamond at the 2016 Winter Outdoor Retailer. The big news is the Helio line of skis and gear, plus there’s updated stuff to look forward to seeing next winter.
HELIO SKIS
The Helio line is the new carbon collection, and will replace the Carbon Convert and Carbon Megawatt skis. The skis are fully carbon, with a pre-preg carbon-fiber layup and Titanal in the binding area. They will also have a flatter tail and reduced rocker in the tip compared to previous skis. The Helio will be available in sizes ranging from 116mm, 105mm, 95mm, and 88mm underfoot.
HELIO SHELL
The Helio Shell is made of a brand-new material from GORE-TEX. It’s a C-KNIT, 3-layer construction that’s fully waterproof. They say it’s one of the lightest waterproof materials in the market. It is very clean looking with straight lines, and is super minimalist – the proof is in the fact that it doesn’t even have front hand-warmer pockets. It weighs only 370 grams and packs down to practically nothing so it takes little room in your pack until you need it.
HELIO POLE
The Helio Pole is one of the coolest items I saw on the show floor. They say it’s one of the lightest ski poles in the world, and when you hold it, you’ll believe it. What makes it so light is a full-carbon construction, and it’s fixed-length. In fact, the entire pole is just one single piece of carbon made much like carbon bikes frames. Even the grip is integrated with just a minimal wrist strap. The poles come it at an astounding 265 grams (9 ounces) per pair, but you’ll pay for it as they will cost $299.
CIRQUE PACK
Also new for backcountry skiers and mountaineers is the Cirque Pack series. It comes in 30, 35 and 45-liter sizes. It’s a top-loader that’s easy to get into and has a top-buckle for securing gear like ropes. There is plenty of room for avalanche gear, a large side zipper for accessing stuff on the bottom, ice ax loops, both diagonal and A-Frame ski carry compatibility, and helmet holder that stows away when not in use.
FIRST LIGHT HOODY
Also in apparel next year, look for the First Light Hoody. According to BD, it will cover everything from first tracks to first ascents, making it the “quintessential jacket for movement up and down the mountains or even missions around town.” The First Light Hoody will be Black Diamond’s solution for high output, start-and-stop activities in cold weather where versatile insulation is key. Features include migration-resistant PrimaLoft® Silver and stretch Schoeller® face fabric adding both durability and breathability.
STORM HEADLAMP
The Storm headlamp, outfitted with a sealed, waterproof housing and Black Diamond’s PowerTap technology, will offer a sleek housing design, and increases from 160 to 250 lumens of power featuring both red/green night vision modes.
COULOIR HARNESS
Also new for the 2016/17 season, the Couloir harness gets upgraded with compact Fusion Comfort Construction, a Speed buckle, shedding 16 grams from its original design.Two separate strands of webbing brings superior load distribution and reduces pressure on sensitive body parts. Plus, it still packs down to practically nothing so it takes up very little room in your pack.
SOLANO GLOVE
Suffer from cold fingers every time you ski? Check out the Solano Glove. Primaloft insulation keeps your digits warm, while integrated heating tech is located inside the glove for on-demand warmth when you need it.
PIEPS MICRO
The PIEPS Micro avalanche beacon, will be perhaps the smallest and lightest three-antenna beacon on the market. It will feature patented sensor technology and wireless device management to improve ease of use. Plus, it’s so small you can keep it in your pocket without feeling too bulky.
The only downside to all this new gear coming from Black Diamond? You’ll have to wait until next season to buy it.