Columbia Coreshot Anorak: Relaxed Style That Transitions Seamlessly to Après
Relax into the warmth of Columbia’s new roomy and casual Coreshot Anorak 9 for women. It fits loosely over baselayers for a cozy feel that’ll see you through to après. Outfitted with Columbia’s signature Omni-Tech, seams are sealed to prevent moisture from seeping through, yet the waterproof fabric is breathable, keeping you dry inside and out and a powder skirt ensures there are no incursions from below. This over-the-head anorak includes a half-zip neckline and side-zip for easy on-and-off. And it wouldn’t be an anorak without a kangaroo pocket, with enough capacity for even your lunch. For added warmth and cargo space, pair with the matching Coreshot cargo pant. Jacket $259, pant $199; columbiasportswear.ca
Ortovox Ravine Plus 3L Jacket: Sustainable, Burly, and Surprisingly Cozy
Of the dozens of ski jackets we tested last winter, the Ortovox Ravine Plus 3L was a stand-out. Made in Europe, using recycled fishing nets, the jacket’s three-layer waterproof-breathable construction has a durable and burly feel. But it’s also cozy and versatile. Patches of fleecy merino wool on the chest and back add moisture wicking and a touch of insulation, which make the shell feel warmer than expected. With a loose but not baggy fit, it’s ideal for layering. There are generous pit zips for venting while uptracking or bashing turns on warm days. Plus, there are seven pockets. With that many, who needs a pack? $1,000; ortovox.com
Carv 2 Sensors: Your AI Ski Coach, Now Without the Boot Fuss
If you’ve ever shared a chairlift with a devotee (there are many) of the Carv school of analytical feedback, you already know how their insole sensors informed users about the minutiae of their skiing technique. The next-generation Carv 2 sensor isn’t something you have to fit in your precisely fitted boot. Instead, it attaches to the power strap of each boot. As you move through each turn, the sensors capture a high-resolution model of boot movement which is analyzed with the benefit of Carv’s database of more than 500 million ski turns made by other users. Your paired smartphone becomes your personal ski coach (one you don’t have to tip), telling you what you did well and what to do differently, with the aid of live audio and graphic feedback. The sensor units are included with a Carv membership, priced at $329 per year, with a 100-day return guarantee. getcarv.com
Icebreaker Anniversary Original Half-Zip: A Merino Classic, Refined
To celebrate its 30th anniversary, Icebreaker is putting its three decades of experience into refreshing a classic model. The long-sleeved pullover Anniversary Original Half-Zip has a textured pattern down the sleeves that is subtly reminiscent of classic ski sweaters. A 100-percent merino weave means it is breathable and will wick moisture while resisting the odours that plague polyester. If you’ve never worn lightweight yet warm merino as a baselayer it’s time to acquaint yourself with how soft and comfortable wool can be. $350; icebreaker.com
Kari Traa Saga Hood and Pants: Megan Oldham’s Merino Formula for Performance
Ontario’s Megan Oldham knows how to dress for success. Proof: seven X-Games medals in big air and slopestyle. To stay warm while waiting for her turn to drop in without feeling restricted in the air, she wears Kari Traa’s Saga Hood and Pants. The mix of 90 percent merino wool and 10 percent elastane creates a versatile and durable fabric that’s soft, moisture-wicking, stretchy and thermo-regulating. The top has thumb loops and a hood for extra coziness. The whole kit comes in Nordic-inspired prints and colours. Hood: $170, pant: $150; karitraa.com
Peak Performance Helium Utility Down Hood Jacket: Lightweight Warmth with Style Curves
Most down jackets look similar, which makes the Peak Performance Helium Utility Down Hood Jacket appealing. First, the baffle design that locks in the 700-fill goose down isn’t a typical grid. Instead it’s a wave pattern of what scientists would call sine-curves and skiers call sweet turns. In place of elasticized wrist cuffs, Peak uses pull string closures. Snug them tight to exclude any snow from sneaking up the sleeve. To add a style pop, the chest and arm pockets are contrasting colours. Weighing 430g, it’s both easily packable and a good layering option under a shell. $410; peakperformance.com
Blundstone Original Boots: From the Boot Room to the Chalet
If Elvis were alive, he’d probably be wearing a Blundstone Original boot, now available in waxed blue suede. With a dozen new styles for autumn/winter—from lace ups to oiled nubuck leathers—there is a pair to fit your foot and outfit. From the ski boot room to the cabin or chalet, Blundstone may be Australian but they’re at home in Canada. $219; blundstone.ca
POC Obex Connect Helmet: High-Tech Protection Meets Seamless Communication
The Obex Connect from POC has all the safety and comfort features of a premium modern helmet. The adjustable band tightens around the circumference of a skull, not just at the back, and is integrated into the Mips rotational absorption system. Slide a knob along its track to open or close ventilation ducts. Enjoy clearer vision thanks to vents that direct airflow into goggles. What’s new is the Mesh connection technology, which lets skiers talk to up to eight other users on the same system by way of the ear cup headphones and mic. We are talking about seamless communication, not phone calls and fumbled texting. Sound by Harman Kardon promises top-end audio when you decide to tune your friends out and sink into your playlist instead. $700; poc.com
