It聮s true that insulated ski wear is becoming more fashionable (i.e., less Michelin-man like), and that new materials make these garments more comfortable than ever. But I remain solidly devoted to layering principles when skiing. I find that being able to pick and choose what I wear for warmth, then adding a shell of some sort, allows me to stay comfortable whether it聮s five degrees and snowing or 30 degrees and the sun is peeking out.
Marmot Cat Track Ski Jacket
Cat Track Ski Jacket听
These days I usually start with an Icebreaker Bodyfit 260 long-sleeve shirt ($60; icebreaker.com), a mid-weight wool shirt that聮s exceedingly comfortable. The same material in tights ($62) goes on as well. On warmer days, that聮s all I need, along with a shell on top and bottom. Lately I聮ve been wearing REI聮s Taku jacket ($199; rei.com) and a pair of bibs from Patagonia that are discontinued. If it聮s cooler, sometimes I聮ll add a fleece vest (many styles to choose from, cost usually is $40 or so), or a light fleece pullover such as The North Face聮s Pumori ($99; thenorthface.com), made with 200-weight Polartec. Then, if it聮s quite cold, I聮ll wear my Patagonia Puffball Pullover (updated as the Micro Puff Pullover, $148; Patagonia.com). That聮s a very warm piece that also layers well because of its smooth nylon-face fabric.
But certainly there are many fine insulated jackets and pants out there. Marmot聮s Cat Track ($260; marmot.com) is an excellent jacket, with synthetic insulation and a waterproof-breathable shell. It聮s warm and looks pretty good, too. Or, Mountain Hardwear聮s Traverse Trifecta ($285; mountainhardwear.com) is a combination system with an outer jacket and inner warm liner. Wear each as conditions dictate. Or, if you聮re budget allows, Spyder聮s Aspen Jacket (spyder.com) combines great looks and an insulated shell for a modest $715 (on sale for $500 at several locations).
The Gear Guy reports from , the bi-annual gearapalooza in Salt Lake City. Check out his top picks for gear to watch in 2007.