Warm Fuzzies
12/12/2022 08:00AM ● By Kelly Bastone
Steamboat Springs, CO - Powderhounds love winter’s coldest days because low temps foster the best snow. But you don’t have to be a skier to appreciate this season’s deep drifts and hushed silences. Midwinter may indeed be the most wonderful time of the year – when you’re dressed warm enough. Here are four pieces of cold-thwarting gear that are guaranteed to keep you cozy when the mercury plummets.
Stio Shot 7 Down Jacket
Stio Shot 7 Down JacketÜber-puffy down jackets may be marvelously warm, but they’re typically terrible at dealing with sweat – that’s because when moisture dampens down’s plumes, they lose their insulation powers. So Jackson, Wyoming-based Stio built a puffy jacket that can actually stand up
to the perspiration produced by hot laps on skis or snowboards: It’s stuffed with responsibly-sourced, 800-fill down that’s treated with a water-repellant coating. What’s more, mesh-backed pit zips dump steam, and the jacket’s water-resistant lining acts as a barrier against sweat. A removable powder skirt seals out snow from below, and the waterproof shell (made of 2-layer Gore-tex) protects against soakings from the sky. $649, Stio.com
Big Agnes Camp Boss Unisex Insulated Pants
Big Agnes Camp Boss Unisex Insulated PantsDog-walkers, rejoice: These insulated shell pants (made by Steamboat Springs’ very own Big Agnes) deflect winter’s cold and wind. Though not fully waterproof, the shell fabric keeps out light rain and flurries. It’s backed with synthetic FireLine ECO insulation, comprised of super-tough fibers that maintain their loft throughout extensive striding and sitting. The elastic waistband slides easily over a range of base layers, and thanks to ¾-length side zippers, you don’t have to remove your boots before putting on these over-pants. Articulated knees allow for freedom of movement, making the Camp Boss ideal for snowshoeing and fort-building. $180, BigAgnes.com
Therm-ic Power Gloves 3+1
Therm-ic Power Gloves 3+1With a “lobster” design that frees the index finger for greater dexterity (including the ability to operate a snowmobile throttle), this mitt wraps each finger and the back of the hand with heating elements that radiate warmth in extreme conditions. Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries slide into the cuffs to power the heating elements and switch, which toggles between low (delivering 10 hours of heat), medium (five hours) and high (three hours). Paired with Primaloft synthetic insulation, a goatskin palm (with reinforcement patches to guard against sharp ski edges) and a waterproof/breathable shell fabric, this would be a top-shelf ski glove even without the battery-powered warmth. Adding in the wattage makes it a must-have. $400, us.Therm-ic.com
Beyond A1 Aether Boxer Brief
Beyond A1 Aether Boxer BriefDesigned by a Seattle-based brand that actually makes its clothing in the USA, these boxers boost the warmth of any winter outfit. They’re made of Polartec’s lightweight Power Grid fleece, which combines fuzzy, heat-trapping squares with air channels that act like exhaust pipes for heat and moisture. The result is low-bulk, breathable insulation that keeps clamminess at bay, even during strenuous exercise. Flatlock seams eliminate any possibility of chafing, and an antimicrobial panel on the fly controls odor. And because the legs are cut longer than most, they don’t ride up while hiking or riding the resort. $65, BeyondClothing.com