More Backcountry Gift Ideas — Scott Celeste2 Boots, Flowfold Duffel, and Boot Dryers

Hopefully you’ve been skiing instead of trolling the malls for Christmas gifts. Here’s a few more suggestions for the backcountry skier on your list:

Having your ski boots warm when you slip them on sure feels nice. Plug a
heated boot bag into your car’s cigarette lighter and your boots will be toasty when you get to the trailhead. They’re pricey ($200) and heavy (4 lbs+); cheaper DIY options are available.

We’ve used a variety of boot dryers over the years including the Turbo WildSnow Special made from inexpensive computer fans.

This season we’re using a portable heater by Innovative Gear that plugs into the car or a regular 110v wall socket.

Pros:

The 12v car plug is on the end of a 6 ft cord so you can heat your boots in the back seat while you drive.

Flexible tubes can bend and stretch out to reach the toe box.

The car unit is fairly light (584 grams); the wall AC/DC adapter weighs an additional 446 grams.

Simple design is sturdy enough to stash in a suitcase when traveling (lays flat and packs down to 14″x6″x2″).

Heats boots to approximately 90 degrees F.

Con:

Only one heat setting. Cool air flow is not an option.

We’re always on the search for lightweight but tough luggage. A real find is the 40L Conductor duffel by Flowfold. Guaranteed for life, it’s made of DiamondFiber, a strong fabric originally used to revolutionize the performance of racing sailboats. I’ve used a Conductor bag for literally every adventure this past year and it still looks like new.

Pros:

Weight, 400 grams with shoulder strap

Waterproof zippers and water resistant fabric

Simple, roomy design. One side zipped pocket

High quality workmanship by a passionate young company, made in Maine, USA

Lifetime warranty

Cons:

Size is limited to 40L. Make a ski bag please!

Price: $100

Selecting backcountry ski boots is definitely a personal thing. We recommend working with a local shop and an experience bootfitter.

A boot to consider for the ladies is Celeste 2 by Scott. Sizing is similar to the old Garmonts. They offer impressive performance without being too heavy. My size 25 boots weigh in at 1308 grams. Roomy and warm, they are currently my favorite ski touring boots, especially for days with challenging conditions.

Specs:

Dynafit® tech inserts

Grilamid shell

Flex index: 120

Last width: 103.5mm

Forward lean: 11.5°

Cuff rotation: 60°

Happy Holidays!