In what has surely come to herald the impending ski season more than anything else, the dedicated crew at Freeskier has just released their annual gear guide. Fear not if you don't get the magazine, for pretty much everything is online, and you can check it all out here: http://community.freeskier.com/buyersGuide/index_2010.php

While there really is no substitute to holding the magazine in your hands and eyeing all the new goodies for yourself, I'll offer the following observations (which wholly represent my opinions and no one else's):

-The CoreUPT line contains some of the most painfully stupid graphics I have ever seen... and not just on skis, I mean everywhere. Candide's models are just boring, Schiller's are okay, but Colby West's Pro Model is a blatant affront to decent taste everywhere. I mean, Jesus, talk about a case for abortion: http://community.freeskier.com/uploads/images/mediaItem_4a7ce418714d0.jpg

-"Kung Fujas" is the best named ski of the year.

-Helmets are getting better and better looking by the year. For evidence of this, check out the Smith Maze.

-If you're looking for the perfect compliment to your Seth Pistols (and for evidence that people are finally starting to bring some style to ski boots), check out Full Tilt's new Morrison boot: http://community.freeskier.com/buyersGuide/product.php?product_id=504

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As mentioned, there are all just the quick hits. Go have a look for yourself over at the freeskier website.