darko714

------------- Axxis 162 is the only alpine board I owned for my first four seasons hardbooting. Good choice if you only have one board.

Nothing beats it for fun in powder. Here in Western New York, we only see powder about twice a year, though.

I defiantly resisted helmets until three years ago. I was bombing full tilt off a steep section and encountered some unseen rollers that were washed out in blinding sunlight. Caught the front edge and whipsawed into the hardpack in a classic faceplant. I laid there seeing stars for a few seconds. I sat up and passed the head trauma orientation test administered by my girlfriend and continued riding. My skull had served as an adequate helmet, but on the way home I stopped and bought me a proper helmet.

Absolutely. The racing style (fast, with a blend of carving and skidding) works best for me, and I enjoy the challenge of racing. While it's not worth it to me to have the newest top-end gear, it isworth it to me to know what the pros are using now so that I know what to look for.

"We are the 1%."