It's "snow" use not being prepared

Good enough for Olympian Bode Miller, Ski-D socks from DeFect International, Inc., Hildebran, N.C., are aimed at any skier--remember, folks, there's still almost two months left to the snow-making season--serious enough to care if his or her boots fit properly. Crafted by the company's sock experts, Ski-D ($16) is a true advancement in ski sock technology, as it can be customized and is available in thin or padded-toe styles--the latter providing extra warmth where it's needed most. (Truth be told, we didn't get out on the slopes much this season, but the ultra-comfortable and cushy Ski-D's still served us well during a number of downhill sledding Ski-D socks forays with the kids.) from DeFect No matter what the expedition, you simply can't go wrong with first-rate socks that keep you warm and ensure that your footwear fits properly.

Whether skiing, snowboarding, or, as in our case, sledding, proper eyewear fit--and protection--is imperative. The Enak Mid Goggles from Julbo, Willistin, Vt., proved perfect, especially the anti-fog lens feature.

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Enak Mids ($86) come in brown (Category-3), vermillion (Category2), and orange (Category-1) for varying light conditions. [The higher the Category, the darker the lens and the less light reaches the eye.] Soft, top-quality foam padding around the face ensures comfort and performance fit. Moreover, Julbo is the only manufacturer in North America that serves the Category-4 eyewear market with goggles and photochromic sunglasses for glacier and high-altitude use. Look out below!

For more information on this versatile and stylish outdoor eyewear, visit www.julboinc.com. For Ski-D, visit www.defeet.com.

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