SkiSkis · Ski boots · Bindings & poles
SnowboardSnowboards · Boots & bindings
Helmets & gogglesHelmets · Goggles
Outerwear & layersJackets & pants · Layers · Gloves & socks
  1. Home
  2. Glossary
Glossary

Snow Sports Gear terms, explained

Short, plain definitions of the words you'll see on product pages and spec sheets. Each one links to a guide when there's more to know.

A

ASTM F2040
A North American standard for snow sports helmets. Read the guide →

B

Base layer
The layer against the skin that moves sweat away. Read the guide →

C

Camber
An arch underfoot that gives edge hold and pop. Read the guide →

D

DIN
The release value setting on alpine ski bindings. Read the guide →

E

EN 1077
The European standard for ski and snowboard helmets. Read the guide →

F

Flex index
A number describing ski boot stiffness. Read the guide →

L

Last
The forefoot width of a ski boot. Read the guide →

M

MIPS
A helmet system with a low-friction layer designed for angled impacts. Read the guide →
Mondopoint
Ski boot size based on foot length in centimeters. Read the guide →

R

Rocker
An upturned tip or tail (or whole base) that makes a ski or board float and turn easily. Read the guide →

S

Shell
A waterproof, breathable outer jacket or pant. Read the guide →
Sidecut radius
The curve of a ski's edge. A smaller radius turns more tightly. Read the guide →

V

VLT
Visible light transmission: the share of light a goggle lens lets through. Read the guide →

W

Waist width
The width of a ski underfoot, in millimeters. Read the guide →
Wide snowboard
A board with a wider waist so larger boots do not drag. Read the guide →