Discover the Best of Killington, Vermont
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Best Gear For 2026
Expert reviews, real-world data, and our top picks for the upcoming Killington winter season.
The 2026 Winter Gear Report
As the 2025-2026 winter season approaches, the technology behind ski and snowboard equipment has reached a new pinnacle. At Killington Getaway, our team of experts spent over 100 days testing the latest prototypes on everything from the icy steeps of Cascade to the soft stashes in the glades.
This year, the trend is clear: Versatility without Compromise. Manufacturers are no longer asking skiers to choose between a lightweight touring ski and a stable downhill charger. Using advanced materials like aerospace-grade Titanal and graphene-infused cores, the 2026 lineup delivers gear that is lighter on the uphill and more damp on the descent.
In this guide, we break down the absolute best equipment for the unique conditions of the Green Mountains. Whether you're looking for precision carving tools for those firm Vermont mornings or surfy powder planks for a Nor'easter dump, these are our top recommendations.
Laser AR
$1,249
" The Stöckli Laser AR is widely considered the gold standard for all-mountain performance. Handcrafted in Switzerland, these skis feature a Titanal construction that provides unmatched dampening and edge grip on Killington's firmest morning corduroy. The 2026 model introduces a slightly more refined tip rocker that makes it more versatile in the trees without sacrificing its legendary carving DNA. "
Waist Width
78mm
Radius
16.5m (175cm)
Core
Light Core / Titanal
The Pros
- ✓Industry-leading edge grip
- ✓Extremely damp at high speeds
- ✓Handmade quality
The Cons
- ✕Premium price point
- ✕Requires aggressive input
Rustler 10
$799
" When the forecast calls for a foot of fresh at Bear Mountain, the Rustler 10 is the ski you want. The 2026 iteration features the new FluxArmor technology—a tapered titanal layer that provides stability underfoot while keeping the tips and tails playful and surfy. It's the perfect balance for East Coast skiers who want one ski that can handle both the deep days and the chopped-up afternoon crud. "
Waist Width
102mm
Radius
17.5m (180cm)
Core
Carbon Flipcore
The Pros
- ✓Incredible versatility
- ✓Playful in soft snow
- ✓Stable landing platform
The Cons
- ✕Chatters slightly on pure ice
Peak Vario 3D
$169
" Ski poles are often an afterthought, but the LEKI Peak Vario 3D changes that. Featuring the innovative Trigger 3D system, these poles provide a direct connection between your glove and the pole for maximum power transfer and a safety release mechanism. The 2026 model uses a high-strength aluminum and carbon hybrid construction, making them light enough for the skin track but stiff enough for aggressive downhill charging. "
Material
Carbon/Aluminum
Grip
Trigger 3D
Adjustment
Speed Lock 2+
The Pros
- ✓Quick-release safety system
- ✓Highly adjustable length
- ✓Ergonomic grip
The Cons
- ✕Requires LEKI-compatible gloves for best use
Hawx Ultra 130 S
$799
" Precision starts with your feet. The Atomic Hawx Ultra 130 S is the lightest high-performance alpine boot Atomic has ever made. The Prolite construction starts with the thinnest profile possible and then builds up reinforcements in key zones where strength is needed. For 2026, the Mimic Professional liner offers a level of customization that previously required a custom-foamed race plug, giving you instant response on every turn. "
Flex
130
Last
98mm (Narrow)
Weight
1700g
The Pros
- ✓Ultra-lightweight
- ✓Near-custom fit
- ✓Explosive power transfer
The Cons
- ✕Tight fit for wide feet
Flight Deck L Prizm
$230
" Inspired by the helmet visors of fighter pilots, the Flight Deck L maximizes your field of view so you won't miss a single mogul on Outer Limits. The Prizm lens technology is engineered to help you see contrast on the mountain in a variety of light and snow conditions. The 2026 model features an updated anti-fog coating that is 2x more effective than previous generations—a lifesaver during damp Vermont snowstorms. "
Lens
Prizm Sapphire
Fit
Large
Compatibility
Helmet Integrated
The Pros
- ✓Massive field of vision
- ✓Industry-leading optics
- ✓Seamless integration
The Cons
- ✕Large frame might not fit small faces
Custom Camber
$659
" Since its inception, the Burton Custom has been the board that all others are measured against. The 2026 model continues this legacy with a refined carbon highlights layup that provides a snappier response while reducing overall weight. Whether you're hitting the Stash park or carving down Superstar, the Custom's directional shape and camber profile provide the pop and stability needed for everything Killington throws at you. "
Bend
Camber
Shape
Directional
Flex
Twin
The Pros
- ✓Legendary all-mountain versatility
- ✓Incredible pop and energy
- ✓Sustainable Super Sap epoxy
The Cons
- ✕Camber can be unforgiving for beginners
Guide Gloves
$179
" The Black Diamond Guide is the warmest professional-grade glove in the BD lineup. Designed for those who spend every day on the mountain, the 2026 version features a removable boiled wool liner and a fully waterproof GORE-TEX insert with Plus Warm Technology. The goat leather palm and knuckle patches provide the durability needed for technical descents and long-term use in the harshest winter environments. "
Material
Goat Leather/Nylon
Insulation
Boiled Wool
Waterproofing
GORE-TEX
The Pros
- ✓Maximum thermal protection
- ✓Incredibly durable
- ✓Removable liner for quick drying
The Cons
- ✕Long break-in period
- ✕Bulky feel
Need Expert Advice?
Choosing the right gear depends on your weight, height, and personal skiing style. Our team is happy to help you find the perfect setup for your next Killington trip.
Contact Our Gear Experts