Indigo Equipment Epic Poles ($99):
If you've always regarded downhill ski poles as an after-thought commodity, you're in for a surprise once you venture into the ungroomed backcountry. Changing conditions with chest-high powder and the occasional traverse schlep demand versatility. Or more accurately, adjustability, and Indigo's Epic adjustable ski pole is the right tool for the job. First off, notice how sweet this thing swings. The 90-percent carbon-fiber lower and aluminum upper facilitate crazily well-balanced pole plants. For a custom eight-inch range of adjustability, the SlipNot Adjustment System does just what it says (and hallelujah, you can even do it with gloves on): push the button, twist the carbon-fiber lower pole, slide to the desired length, reseat the button, and you're in business. It's good backcountry policy, too, that the Epic features a releasable wrist strap which detaches quickly if, say, you get caught in a snow slide. With mondo 85-millimeter powder baskets, a carbide steel tip, and two adjustable sizes (44 to 52 inches, 48 to 56 inches), you've got the perfect pole for big powder and anything else the backcountry throws your way. Contact 970-429-1005, www.indigoequipment.com.
