Gear of the Century, Part 2

Gear of the Century, Part 2

Author: BLISTER January 3, 2026 Duration: 1:08:04

What are the most significant developments in snowsports gear of the 21st century? We’ve already covered the ‘Best Skis of the Century’ on GEAR:30, and now, we’re ranking the most important gear and / or technological developments in skiing and snowboarding. And today, you’re going to get the real story of the first rockered ski.

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TOPICS & TIMES:

Weekly Gear Giveaway (2:27)

New Boot Testing & Carv (3:42)

BLISTER+ (5:19)

Greg’s Background in Skiing (6:32)

Greg’s Top 10

#10: Removal of Fluoro Waxes (11:12)

#9: GripWalk (14:31)

#8: Tuning Robots (16:53)

#7: Gore Tex Patents Expiration (20:56)

#6: Step in / Step on Snowboard Bindings (25:51)

#5: Hybrid AT Systems

#4: Ski Boot Design (35:16)

Rockered Skis Unsolved Mysteries (46:13)

#3: Rockered Skis (44:17)

#2: Twin Tip Skis (50:19)

#1: K2 Four (53:46)

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For anyone who has ever stood in a shop debating the merits of a new jacket or stared at a trail map while thinking about their skis, GEAR:30 is that conversation. This BLISTER podcast goes far beyond basic specs and marketing claims, offering a nuanced, often technical look at the equipment that defines our time outside. The discussion is driven by the people who live with these products: our own reviewers who are putting gear through its paces in real conditions, the designers who obsess over materials and intent, and the athletes whose livelihoods depend on performance. We also check in with the seasoned folks from our network of recommended shops, who see what works and what doesn’t after a season of hard use. Episodes dig into specific items, broader trends in innovation, and the sometimes-surprising realities of long-term testing. It’s a deep, authentic resource for anyone who appreciates the intersection of sports, design, and technology, and who believes the right tool can transform an experience. Tune in for honest, detailed talk that treats outdoor gear with the seriousness and curiosity it deserves.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 391

GEAR:30
Podcast Episodes
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What You're Probably Getting Wrong about Ski Width [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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When it comes to the question of ski width, there are some very strong opinions held by skiers, and lots of them aren’t true. Are lots of people on skis that are too wide? Will a skinnier ski always carve better than a w…
Reviewer Reports: Paul's New Pow Ski Design; Carving Skis; & More [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:17:34
Luke, Koppa, Paul Forward, and Jonathan talk about some of the gear they've been reviewing; discuss topics related to that gear; and dive deep into the ideas behind a new pow ski design that Paul has been thinking about…