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Outerwear and Layers

Roxy Shelter Jacket - Women’s

This is my first pullover style ski jacket and it's so cozy! I was impressed with how lightweight it was. I’ve had insulated jackets from Roxy in the past and this one feels much lighter than my previous insulated jacket. Even though it felt lighter, it still kept me warm on and off the mountain. I had expected to struggle getting in and out of the pullover style jacket, but was really impressed with how much easier it was with the long side zipper. Another surprise was how well the hand warmer pockets worked. My hands are always cold, but they stayed warm in these nifty lined pockets. The inner hand cuffs are a fantastic feature. I’ve had them on previous jackets and they’re my favorite! It feels almost like an extra glove over your hands, which also helps keep them warm. The chest pocket is hidden for a sleek look, but could still hold my phone and snacks! I was able to fit my helmet in the hood comfortably and turn my head to the sides without any of my peripheral view being blocked. On top of all these great features, the faux fur trim on the hood (which is removable) and holographic trim on the front give this jacket style. I would recommend this jacket to anyone who wants to be warm, functional, and fashionable on the mountain.

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Bottom Line

This is a great jacket for cold winter days on and off the mountain. I love how cozy, warm, and fun this jacket is.

evo Felsen Hooded Insulator

This is far and away one of the most comfortable jackets I have ever owned! The inside is super soft, and the outside is fairly water resistant. The Polartec insulation does a great job of keeping me warm around town on cooler days, and I found the wind to be less of a problem as well. While it looks nice and stylish, I have found it to also be a very practical jacket. I now use it as my primary mid-layer when skiing, and it performs incredibly well. The material is very breathable, so I stay comfortable when skiing, and it is an amazing insulator. I wear it with my shell and wool base layer and haven’t gotten cold yet this season! Even on a nine-degree windy day at Loveland, I was still feeling good and skied all day without feeling chilly. The functionality of this jacket cannot be overstated. All of its pockets have zippers, so I never need to worry about losing anything! When skiing, I like to keep my phone in the jacket’s chest pocket, and it stays warm enough to not lose charge, despite the cold weather. My favorite thing about this jacket is how lightweight and packable it is. This jacket collapses into almost nothing, and takes up very little space in my backpack. It is the perfect everyday jacket, weather resistant and warm, but light and packable for when the weather warms up.

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Bottom Line

The perfect do it all jacket! Stylish and warm, while still being incredibly useful and practical.

Mountain Hardwear StretchDown Hoodie

The Mountain Hardwear StretchDown Hoodie is one of the most versatile down jackets I have ever owned. Some of my favorite days are when I have found myself in this jacket on the skin track in the morning, my bike in the afternoon, and the neighborhood bar that night. The StretchDown allows a full range of motion to help make that tour or ride a bit more comfortable while still looking fresh and a bit more presentable than your haggard old puffy.

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Bottom Line

This thing has some stretch to make your next adventure a little more comfortable. If you are looking for a balance of look and performance, this is your next puffy.

Arc’teryx Kyanite AR Hoodie - Women’s

Incredible hoodie! It is so soft and cozy, I never want to take it off. It keeps we warm on my winter trail runs and ski days, yet it's so lightweight that I'm able to feel free as a bird in it. It’s also very stretchy which is great for being active in. I usually wear medium across the board, but I went with large because I wanted a looser fit for runs.

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Bottom Line

Cozy, versatile zip up hoodie. Great for trails and ski days.

evo Polartec Hooded Pullover

This mid layer is great when we have those colder days. With the integrated balaclava being form fitting it allows you to still wear it under a helmet. I used this product while touring in the backcountry. While skinning up the track, I would take the balaclava off. When it was time to transition, I was able to quickly throw it back on. Having the media pocket on a base layer was also helpful as it kept my phone closer to my body, keeping it warmer. I would recommend this product to people that are looking for a good mid layer with great features to keep them warm while in the resort or in the backcountry.

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Bottom Line

Great product that keeps me warm while on the mountain. The built in balaclava helps keep snow from going down my back during those deep snow days.

Trew Gear Jefferson Jacket

Quick proud points for the Jefferson Jacket; Fit, Function, and Style. The generous fit is one that complements the freeride ski and snowboard aesthetic. Well-placed pockets and a large hood protect your stowables and your dome, and that removable powder skirt - what powder skirt? Multiple styles offer an array of colors and lines to boot, matching most kits and preferences. I'd recommend this jacket to those that rep' smaller brands, avoid euro-fitting garments, and know to spend their coin on the right footwear. Keep this one in the resort though, where weight and dryness aren't going to slow your roll or take a toll.

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Bottom Line

Using this jacket in Colorado's dry climate the fabric, or membrane, left something to be desired (I couldn't determine if it allowed moisture in or simply held moisture in, waterproof vs. breathable, but I got wet). On the other hand its value seals the deal - knowing it'll take a beating without breaking the bank, has the necessary features and looks great.

The North Face Freedom Bibs - Women's

These bibs are my go-to resort pant! They have DryVent waterproofing technology which keeps me dry even on the wettest days. They fit me really well with easily adjustable suspenders. As a shorter female, it can be difficult to find pants that aren't too long but these are just right. They are super comfortable and have enough excess space for me to layer underneath on colder days. Ladies' outdoor clothing can sometimes be made too fitted and constricting, but with these bib pants I can move freely and comfortably when I am skiing. I am also a fan of the number of pockets; it allows for plenty of snack storage and a warm place to keep my phone. They also come in some great colors; I own a black pair and a blue pair! I would recommend this product to anyone looking for an affordable, comfortable, and practical bib pant for their winter adventures!

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Bottom Line

This is a great bib pant for anyone looking for their next winter adventure kit. They are waterproof, a great fit, and allow me to store as many snacks as the day requires!

Smartwool Merino 250 Baselayer Pattern Bottoms

I love these baselayer bottoms. The elastic band is great, no slipping down your waist while riding. These bottoms are super soft, and keep me very cozy. Riding at Mount Hood, I generally wear these bottoms under my shell bibs, and I am good to go. I have also used these baselayers hiking during the winter for extra warmth under my pants. They come in super cute patterns and you can buy the matching top if you are looking for a steezy après cozy outfit.

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Bottom Line

This is a staple piece in my outdoor baselayer collection. It’s anti microbial, moisture wicking, cozy, and super cute.

Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Bibs

The Legendary Bibs are a good set of inbound bibs at a great price. The material feels soft yet durable and the insulation is not bulky but keeps you warm. I’ve taken these out in close to 0 F with heavy winds and blowing snow; I was surprised at how warm they were and how I never noticed my legs feeling cold. The insulated chest also acted like a built-in vest to keep me warm, reducing the need for layers. More versatile than I expected by being decently breathable in warmer conditions. With the help of the thigh vents I was never uncomfortably warm, even on the drive to and from the mountain.

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Bottom Line

Great materials in a bib that's comfortable in all conditions at the resort.