1. Skiwear or streetwear, Helly Hansen’s Regulate Midlayer Jacket ($160) is a fresh departure from traditional insulators worn under a shell and is just as hip as a stand-alone. Versatile and with clean subtle lines that define the freeride look, it subtly combines Helly’s patented H2Flow insulating technology and is compatible with 3-in-1 outer layers. HellyHansen.com
2. MEC’s Alpinelite Tour Backpack ($119) has too many features for skiers to list here, but we liked the self-cleaning buckles that didn’t clog with snow and the removable padded hipbelt, for starters. Its main compartment (in three versions: 26, 28 and 30 litres) has rear-panel access and even powder skis fit its A-frame carry system. The unisex pack would fit nicely on MEC’s Oreithya Jacket ($350). Its three-layer nylon, spandex and Gore-Tex waterproof-breathability is second to none, and provides nice stretch for a full range of motion. MEC.ca
3. Giro’s Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) adds another level of security in a helmet like the Range ($319). The two-piece shell with an integrated fit system is a semi-flexible construction, and the low-profile fit adjusts to your noggin with the turn of a dial. It’s packed with features such as audio-system compatibility, anti-bacterial padding, magnetic buckle closure and GoPro mount integration, as well as a perfect fit with a Giro goggle like the frameless über-impressive, peripheral-vision Contact ($299), shown here. Giro.com
4. With its “military-derived” Turbo Fan, Smith’s I/OX goggle ($300 with Sol-X Lens, $370 with Photochromic Red Sensor Lens) will keep you on mission no matter how humid the weather. The extra-large spherical lens offers the ultimate in fog-clearing capability (up to five times that of the competition, says Smith) and fits seamlessly with most helmets. Looking at it, you’d never guess it’s also a suitable over-the-glasses goggle. smithoptics.com
5. Cocoon in Peak Performance’s luxe Black Light Down Liner Hooded Jacket ($500). It’s a women’s mid-layer outerwear piece or soulmate, whether you’re ski touring, ice-climbing or waiting in the lift line. Fill power is a warm 850 (with zipped ventilation under the sleeves), while total weight is only 230g—making it easy to stuff in its tiny travel bag.
Canada.PeakPerformance.com
6. Whether the light has changed or your dog got at your favourite Virtuose goggle by Bollé ($249), the easy “1-click” interchangeable lens system will have you up and running on the fly. Its many features include excellent venting and anti-fog systems, as well as prescription glasses accommodation with special cut-outs in the three-layer foam. Bolle.com
7. You’ll have warm fingers and a warm heart with Mountain Hardwear’s Absolute Zero Mitt ($220). Whether you’re climbing above 8,000m or fighting a polar vortex on a windy chairlift closer to home, wrap your digits in the highest quality 800-fill Q.Shield down and windproof/waterproof leather-palmed luxury in XS to XL. MountainHardwear.ca
