Buying a thoughtful gift isn’t easy – that’s why we have come up with a list of some great new items that any skier would appreciate, with items at every price point. Everything below is new in 2010 and has received top ratings from actual consumer reviewers. Be sure to also check out our 2010 gear guide for in depth reviews of skis and more.

Smith Variant Helmet
$160 at evogear.com
It’s been proven – 4 out of 5 parents think the best skier gifts are somehow safety related. When it’s the Smith Variant, that just might be true. The Variant is destined to become one of 2010’s hottest gift items, incorporating the brim design popularized by helmet manufacturer Bern last year with a more athletic, lightweight and ventilated shell. In short – it looks great and is comfortable to boot.

Dakine Heli Pro Pack
$85.00 at evogear.com
The Dakine Heli Pro pack gets a complete makeover every year (last year, it was all white) – but it remains the most solid midsized daypack for skiing. It’s got just the right number of compartments, loops and straps where you need them, but remains light and simple. The excellent fit means you don’t feel it while skiing and it doesn’t get in the way on the lift. Highly recommended.

Mountain Hardwear Men’s Onza Glove
$75.00 at ems.com
The Mountain Hardwear Men’s Onza Glove is just what I’d want in a skiing glove – it’s simple, not overly bulky, but as warm as they come. The Thermic Micro insulation and Conduit waterproof breathable liner (amongst the best non-goretex WB membranes on the market) means your hands stay warm and dry, but maintain excellent dexterity. The leather palm provides a durable and sure grip.

Yakima SkyBox LoPro Titanium
$699.00 at REI.com
Nobody likes storing skis in their car – they are covered in snow, take up a ton of space, and are easily stolen. The solution? A rooftop box. The Yakima SkyBox features solar powered lights inside and comes in the most aerodynamic shape on the market. It opens from either side (a real plus if you have ever used one) and is made from more than 50% recycled materials. A real treat if you have the money to burn.

swift.silent.deep DVD // Best gift for the skier who has everything
$24.95 at evogear.com
swift silent deep isn’t your typical skiing film – it’s a documentary film that tells one of the truly great stories in skiing, a gritty group of ski bums who unknowingly became the fathers of the modern extreme skiing movement. The story of the Jackson Hole Air Force, as they call themselves, is truly a must see.

skullcandy Skullcrushers Headphones
$59.95 at evogear.com
The skiing & snowboarding community is lucky to have its own headphone manufacturer – especially one that makes such great stuff. Skullcandy headphones are light, durable, and they look great. There are several patterns to choose from, so be sure to take a look.

Line Skis Love Line Tee
$23.99 at evogear.com
In case you haven’t heard – graphic tees aren’t going anywhere. The Line skis love line tee is a great looking shirt with a clever design that will fit well in any skiers’ stocking. If you aren’t all that fond of the design, evogear has dozens upon dozens from top manufacturers you can choose from.

Dakine Concourse Single Ski Bag // Best skier gift for the traveler
$89.95 at evogear.com
Too many ski bags are designed to hold several pairs of skis, which is pretty impractical for most people. The Dakine Concourse Single ski bag is small, light and well padded to protect your most important piece of gear from baggage attendants, bus drivers and just about everything else.

Dakine Deluxe Tune Tuning Kit
$44.99 at evogear.com
Knowing how to tune your own skis and having the right equipment to do so is a real rite of passage for professional skiers – the Dakine Deluxe tuning kit has everything you need to learn in  a well organized package (except for the iron.) An excellent gift for every skier.