There are few riders out there that are as well-rounded as Nils Mindnich. Just this past season Nils not only filmed a complete video part, but he was featured in multiple shorter movie projects like Giro’s Into the White, and he won the Legendary Banked Slalom – just to name a few of his recent accomplishments. Born in Vermont, Nils pushes the limits of big mountain riding throughout the winter, before devoting himself to rock climbing and studying to become an engineer in the off-season. Saddle up for a peek at a handful of Nils’ favorite products, and as always don’t forget to check out the The 2017 Product Collection or 2017 Interactive Brand Guides while you’re at it.
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Giro Axis Goggle
You like being able to see right? All those little changes in terrain, that patch of ice ready to mess you up, identifying them is important. Well, here’s a new goggle option. Giro recently released their brand new Axis goggle for the 2017/18 season. Outfitted with an easy and elegant quick-change lens system, Giro’s patented VIVID lenses, and a sleek frameless design, the Axis has all of the tech to keep you seeing clearly, all without sacrificing a drop of style. Keep your eyes peeled for these to hit the shelves next fall. The Axis goggle will retail at $180.
Salomon Split
There is still a ton of snow in California, and this is one way to take advantage of it. Based off of Salomon’s legendary Sickstick, the Split is a classic two-part splitboard with a modern shape and design. Ascents become a mellow cruise with the help of custom-cut skins that come stock with each board, then charge down the mountain knowing this ride can handle pretty much everything. Nils needs his boards to hold up for steep chutes and big drops, and the Split is his board of choice for touring in the Utah backcountry.
The North Face Powder Guide Vest
If you are going to venture into the backcountry, it is important to be well supplied. The North Face Powder Guide Vest was originally designed for ski patrollers to cut down on bulk by eliminating the need for a traditional pack. The vest is constructed of basically bombproof, ballistic nylon and fits over the a jacket. Features included on the vest include a collection of purpose-built carrying systems and pockets that provide secure and balanced weight distribution for all necessary avalanche gear. Always make sure to stay properly prepared in the backcountry, and if you don’t know, don’t go. Get educated here.
Cowboy Hat
Nils is a wild guy, and some may even venture as far as to say he’s got a bit of cowboy in him. He may not be wrastlin’ calves or driving cattle, but he lives in Utah, which is a pretty good start. Deep down, we’re all a little country.
The North Face Base Camp Duffel
The North Face continues to redesign and improve a classic staple for those that need durable luggage. The bag itself is made from a durable laminate material to withstand being tossed around planes, dragged up mountains, and just about any other test you can come up with. The redesigned model now comes with an extra pocket for storing shoes or dirt laundry, optional backpack straps, and a lifetime warranty. These packs are destined for adventure.
Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe
This modern take on Yvon Chouinard’s original curved-pick mountain axe, the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is tried and true for a mountaineer’s piolet and has been used on legendary ascents all over the world for decades. The Raven features a durable aircraft-aluminum shaft and an investment-cast stainless steel pick for secure self-arresting. Nils is seen here trying out a not-so-traditional self-arrest with this classic axe. He can pull it off, but it’s not recommended as standard technique.
Verts Snowshoes
Verts are an ultimate snow climbing tool. A new take on the classic snowshoe, they have been designed for ease in ascending steep pitches and chutes in the alpine. An upside-down cup design traps snow under the foot and keeps the wearer from sinking/postholing in deep snow. Save your energy for the descent.
See also: Provisions 030: Products to keep you as radical as Tim Eddy,
