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JACKETS
THE SOFTIE: COLUMBIA ICE AX
State of the art soft shell technology for under $200? Yes, it is possible. The Ice Ax is a close-fitting jacket that stretches with the most demanding movement, breathes like a yoga instructor, and still manages to keep rain and snow out thanks to the Omni-Tech laminate on the outside. $149.
THE TECHIE: WESTCOMB IMIRAGE
The iMirage combines some of the latest softgoods technology into a tech-savvy jacket. The MP3 compatible hard shell features an inner iPod pocket that hooks up to a control panel on the outside of the jacket’s sleeve. The panel allows you to control your music without digging into your pockets or taking off your gloves. Handy, cool, and a great conversation starter on the lift ride, but our tester loved the jacket’s eVent fabric, a waterproof membrane that’s breaking out in ski wear this year. Instead of absorbing moisture like traditional wicking materials, eVent fabric transfers your sweat directly through the jacket via millions of tiny, breathable pores. No damp layers, no waiting for your sweat to evaporate from your jacket. $450.
THE BEAST: MOUNTAIN HARDWEAR DOWNHILL PARKA
You don’t need to wear the Downhill Parka everyday, but if it’s well below freezing and the wind is whipping snow sideways, there’s no warmer jacket on the market. This traditional shell is packed with 650-fill down, which is squeezed into a surprisingly sleek package (so you can maneuver on the slopes) while still packing all the warmth of your coziest puffy. $295. ——————–
START SNOWSHOEING
Snowshoeing is not for everyone. That should be stated up front before anyone gets any misconceptions about this fast-growing sport. You see pictures of families building snowmen deep in an evergreen forest, and you think, “Wow. That looks like fun.” And it is. But it’s also an intense workout in somewhat harsh conditions. Having the right attitude is key, but so is having the right gear. Here’s a snowshoe gear primer to help you get started on the right foot.
KEEN BLACKCOMB
Designed for winter trekking, this waterproof boot is stuffed with 200g Primaloft insulation and a thermal heat shield footbed. The end result? Warm feet in the coldest conditions. $129.
OUTDOOR RESEARCH FLEX TEX GAITERS
Stretchy, breathable, and they keep the snow out of your cuffs and boots, which is really all you want out of a gaiter. $29.
