The MRA Test Fest wrapped up last Thursday and we were there to check out some of the gear that will be headed your way for the 2010/2011 season.  Test Fest is sort of like a mini Snowsports Industry Association (sia) show, with a good mix of indoor booths showing off the latest in softgoods, hardgoods and accessories.  Outside was strictly business with skis and snowboards, providing us with a hands-on look at what’s coming to a shop near you.

Our time was limited to 2-days, so we didn’t get to see everything, but we did get a great preview and had the ability to demo some sweet gear, snap some photos and take some videos.  As of this post, full product reviews for both ski and snowboard related goods are in the works.  In the meantime, checkout some of the pictures.

Test Fest 2010
The scene outside was all business with 2011 skis and snowboards at our fingertips for testing.
Moving inside, we spent a lot of time checking out the latest in apparel and accessories.

Bern Helmets at Test Fest 2010
The lineup from Bern was looking fresh, basic colors and clean style, with many of them used for winter/summer.

O'neill Test Fest 2010
The women’s lineup from O’neill stood out as they break into the market for the second season for winter outerwear. Nice European influence, good colors, extreme attention to detail and a decent price range.

O'neill Jacket at Test Fest 2010
More fresh jacket styles from O’neill. The Jeremy Jones pro model on the right.

Anon Optics Test Fest 2010
A look at Anon Optics lineup, lots of solid colors this year.

Line Skis Test Fest 2010
Checking out Line’s ‘afterbang’ ski that features a crazy 7-ply maple construction – Think skate deck construction.

Full Tilt Boots Test Fest 2010
Full Tilt has some sweet freeride boots coming out. Above is the Hot Dogger, Tom Wallisch’s boot.

Dalbello IL Moro Boot 2010 Test Fest
The Dalbello IL Moro boot was intense, and we’re not talking colors. The heat molded liner was like wearing slippers, matched with the slap ratchet upper cuff led to easy adjustments on the snow.  I guess there is a reason Tanner Hall is rocking these.

Atomic Snowboards 2010 Test Fest
Atomic’s lineup looked very solid all the way around. Boards, boots and bindings all matched. The Hatchet was looking promising for a good all around board.

Fischer Race Skis Test Fest 2010
Fischer always has a strong presence in the race market.  Race skis were looking serious and have taken an interesting turn, finally becoming softer tip to tail, allowing racers to get on edge faster.

Fischer Freeride 2010 Test Fest
Not to be left out, Fischer is becoming a serious contender in the freeride market.

Flow Bindings 2010 Test FestUnion Bindings 2010 Test Fest
Left: Flow’s lineup of bindings for the 10/11 season.
Right: Union Bindings’ lineup always looking solid.

Elan Skis 2010 Test Fest
Elan’s freeride lineup is looking promising, especially the Pogo Stick (left) with its rocker/camber combo, provides a sweet ride.


Machete Mike was stoked on Ride’s Machete snowboard.

Check out our Flickr Page for more pics from our trip to Test Fest 2010.

 

Written by: J. Dodge