1. Who needs another logoed team jacket or club T-shirt? How about a custom-knit, non-itch, 100-per-cent merino wool JYTTE toque? Made in Sun Valley, Idaho, by Canadian expat Jytte (pronounced “You-Tay”—that’s Danish for sweet-looking beanie), it’s definitely keeper-schwag. Add your own logo, colours and design for US$20 per lid (that’s half the retail price) plus a $250 setup charge. JYTTE.com
2. Now isn’t this neat? Kombi’s combo Protector Mitt ($100) is a super-warm, comfy glove all on its own, but when the weather worsens, it turns into a storm mitt simply by sliding over the built-in mitt cover that otherwise stays tucked away out of sight. kombicanada.com
3. Patagonia’s water-resistant Nano-Air Hoody ($349) and three-layer Gore-Tex Refugitive Pants ($499) are in a class of their own. In 10 colours, the slim-fit Hoody is insulation so breathable and stretchy you’ll forget you’re wearing the layer, whether it’s skinning up into the alpine or around the fire afterward. The Refugitive Pants are rugged but lightweight, stretchy and weatherproof with easy zips to dump heat as well as store stuff. Patagonia is proud of its manufacturing process, from fabric sourcing and fair labour and safe-working practices, to its Global Traceable Down Certification. patagonia.ca
4. Give’r, the well-known glove-maker based in Jackson, Wyoming, may have had its name inspired by the very Canadian term, but its mascot Hugh Bette (emblazoned on the best-selling Throwback Base Slayer long-sleeve T, $36) is a good example of its very rad accessories collection. More, tons more, at give-r.com.
5. Okay, you might want to save this glove for special, but given the Wakayama ($185) is a Hestra, you could still ski in it all day then drive home in retro comfort. Wool-terry lined, full cowhide in a cork/brown colour with a paracord wrist adjustment. A beauty. hestragloves.com
6. With obvious benefits, Rollerblade’s Macroblade 84 ABT ($299) is made specifically for skiers to train off-season. The skate uses new Active Brake Technology to help keep all four wheels on the road as well as add support and balance to your ride. rollerblade.com
