Although Fish-Eye VHS, prolific in the early 2000s snowboard films, holds the cake for the most iconic video aesthetic used in action sports, there are endless great options for cameras that you can use to capture your adventure. From compact and user-friendly action cams to professional-grade mirrorless systems with interchangeable lenses, there’s a system that aligns with the photographer in everyone.

Dive into the guide to learn about the cameras we love to use while skiing and throughout our adventures.

GoPro Hero12 Black – The One Size Fits All Beast

GoPro, the pioneer of action cameras, has effectively mastered the camera made for adventure. Through 12+ different models, GoPro has blended a user-friendly interface with pro-grade optics and unmatched convenience and versatility.

The GoPro 12 is their most advanced camera yet features 5.3k resolution, up to 8x Slo-Mo, in-camera stabilization, and two LCD screens. All in one body that is waterproof up to 33 feet, straight out of the box with no accessory needed.

We love using the GoPro 12 on a helmet mount while skiing, chest mount for lifestyle shots, and the extension rod for follow-cams. Pair the GoPro 12 with the media mod, the light mod, and the Volta for ultimate daily versatility that rivals large vlog camera setups.

Perfect for those looking for single-button simplicity at the ski resort or for pro-level features in a camera that can be used in any environment.

Price: $349
Resolution: 5.3k 60 FPS + 4k 120 FPS
In-Camera Stabilization: Yes, Very Good
Battery Life Time: Average 70-120 minutes record time in moderate temps
Waterproof: Yes, up to 33ft

Insta360 ONE RS  – The Best In Class 360 Video

Insta360 is a competitor in the same space as GoPro, and although they may be slightly less known in the world of action sports, they are a force to be reckoned with. The Insta360 ONE RS shoots unbeatable 360-degree footage in a compact, interchangeable lens and upgradable device. The camera features a co-engineered Leica lens, dual 1-inch sensors, 6k resolution, in-camera stabilization, and an impressively user-friendly app for editing and managing footage.

The Insta360 ONE RS paired with the invisible selfie stick is a perfect option for tethering in a backpack and skiing with the camera extended above the head for super crisp 360-degree video. We find that the best results are when the camera is mounted to the invisible telescopic selfie stick because it produces a drone-like look.

As a competitor to the GoPro Max, which also shoots 360 video, you may be asking yourself, why choose the Insta360 ONE RS? Two reasons: much larger sensors, musch better resolution and unbeatable app pair and usability. In our opinion and experience, the Insta360 Bluetooth controls using the app on the phone work 10/10 times. The GoPro Bluetooth control, on the other, could be more reliable. If you mount your 360 camera in a location that you don’t have quick, easy access to, Bluetooth control is essential and needs to work every single time.

Price: $785
Resolution: 6k 30 FPS
In-Camera Stabilization: Yes, Very Good
Battery Life Time: Average 60 minutes record time in moderate temps
Waterproof: Water Resistant but not fully intended to be fully submerged

PS Stiched video
In-Camera Stabilization: Yes, Very Good
Battery Life Time: Average 140 minutes record time in moderate temps
Waterproof: Yes

DJI Osmo Pocket 3 – Pocket-sized 3 Axis Gimbal

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is perfect for capturing stable footage while tracking a subject. Unlike the in-camera stabilization of other action cameras, the Osmo Pocket 3 is built with a three-axis mechanical stabilization without the weight and size of a normal handheld gimbal designed for DSLR’s. The Osmo Pocket 3 features 4k/120fps, a 1-inch sensor, and a rotatable screen.

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is perfect for capturing stable footage while tracking a subject. Unlike the in-camera stabilization of other action cameras, the Osmo Pocket 3 is built with a three-axis mechanical stabilization without the weight and size of a normal handheld gimbal designed for DSLR’s. The Osmo Pocket features 4k/120fps, a 1-inch sensor, and a rotatable screen.

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is a go-to for handheld tracking and moving shots. Whether you are following a friend as they ski/ride or tour an epic space, this system gives you cinematic movements and stable footage while also being pocket-sized.

Price: $349
Resolution: 4k 120 FPS
In-Camera Stabilization: Mechanical 3-Axis Gimbal for state of the art stabilization that beats in camera stabilization.
Battery Life Time: Average 140 minutes record time in moderate temps
Waterproof: No