As a key layer under your shell or on its own breaking trail, Smartwool hit it out of the park with its Propulsion 60 Jacket ($209), also in women’s. Added to a layer of soft, non-itch merino wool is a front panel of nylon and extra insulation, providing a perfect combo of multi-sport warmth, wicking and breathability. smartwool.com
Knowing how to layer is Arc’Teryx’s strength, and new to its lineup of midlayers this season is the Proton AR Hoody ($400). On the warmer side of its air-permeable insulated layers, it’s a slim-fit option to wear solo on the bootpack to the summit or the only insulation you need under your shell on a windy day ripping up Castle Mountain. arcteryx.com
The Swacket by Under Armour ($139) repels water and wind while maintaining breathability, making it feel sorta like a sweatshirt and kinda like a jacket. It comes with secure zipped pockets, Lycra on the cuffs and hem, and a loose, full-cut comfort-fit. ua.ca
Halti of Finland is quietly making heads turn in Canada with several pieces like the slim-fit Kurho M Hoodie ($99). It can be worn next to the skin or over a baselayer while mountaineering in the Svalbard, winning World Cup races or at après in Whistler. We like the unique collar, reflective thumb-holed cuffs and sleeve pocket zip. halti.com
Giro’s lighter, better-vented Union MIPS helmet ($219) offers more protection in certain multi-direction impacts (smart) and anti-odour protection (sweet), as well as seamless compatibility with the Zeiss-lensed full-frame Balance goggle ($179) with expanded field of view and optically correct spherical vision in 19 frame and lens combinations. giro.com
You not only survive a Canadian winter in a good coat, you’ll enjoy it! Columbia’s top-of-the-line Outdry Ex Diamond Heatzone Jacket ($999) uses patented 1000 TurboDown Wave insulation for ultimate warmth while managing total waterproof/breathable capability in Columbia’s OutDry Extreme fabric technology. columbiasportswear.ca
