To answer when winter rings, you need to be prepared for frigid temps, blustery winds and the hurt of the fourth season. So we gathered our favorite cold-weather products and created the ideal setup for the occasion.
Don’t let a frightful forecast scare you off. Instead, suit up with this kit of things you need for skiing and snowboarding. Our team of die-hard skiers and riders hand-picked these items to help you prepare for a day of resort skiing.
DAKINE Daytripper Snow Helmet
DAKINE dove headfirst into the helmet game this winter with the debut of the Daytripper. We’re big fans in particular of the subtle wildflower graphic that pops against the matte black colorway, as well as the classic silhouette and minimal brim—style we expect from the surf and snow juggernaut. But good looks only get you so far on the slopes. For safety’s sake, DAKINE stuck to an industry-standard helmet construction, pairing an injection-molded hardshell with a 100% recycled EPS foam liner. The Daytripper also features a reliable magnetic chin strap for one-handed unbuckling and a dial adjuster for a snug, secure fit. Ventilation comes courtesy of 10 purposefully positioned vents for passive front-to-back airflow. All things considered, it’s a stellar, stoke-worthy debut from a storied name in snowsports. $95
DAKINE Boot Locker DLX – 70L
Whether you’re embarking on an international ski trip or cruising to your local hill, schlepping ski boots gets infinitely easier with the 70-liter Boot Locker DLX from DAKINE. The main boot compartment features a clamshell-style zippered opening, providing easy access to your boots. That cavernous compartment is lined with a waterproof tarp, which keeps snowy boots from soaking the rest of your kit and doubles as a nifty changing mat for booting up in the parking lot. You can stash additional gear in an array of pockets, among them a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket, a helmet and goggles pocket and a separate zippered pocket ideal for safeguarding après duds. Stowable backpack straps and duffel-style handles provide multiple carry options, which come in handy when navigating airport terminals and taxis. If you like to protect your ski boots, keep your gear dry and stay organized off the hill, this one’s for you. $100
REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Jacket (Women’s and Men’s)
On a stormy day, your ski jacket must juggle two essential jobs: keeping you dry and keeping you warm. Luckily, the Powderbound Insulated Jacket from REI Co-op is a consummate multitasker. A waterproof, two-layer nylon shell protects against precipitation, while 80 grams of synthetic insulation around the core supply much-needed warmth. Factor in a helmet-friendly hood, high collar, sealable cuffs and hem, removable powder skirt and ample pockets, and this alpine armor is our go-to for midwinter in the mountains. Available in a range of sizes, from XS to 3X. $229
REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Bib Snow Pants (Women’s and Men’s)
The benefits of bibs outnumber even the various sizes and fits the Powderbounds from REI Co-op are available in. These adventure-ready trousers shine on a good, old-fashioned powder day when the high-waisted style makes it near impossible for snow to breach your outerwear. A waterproof, two-layer nylon shell seals out precip, and a just-right 40 grams of synthetic insulation keeps your buns and thighs toasty on frigid lift rides or when adjusting snowboard bindings. Integrated gaiters keep powder from creeping into your boots, while zippered thigh vents let you crank the AC if temps rise. Nice touch: spacious chest and hand pockets for stashing snacks and other essentials. $219
Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket (Women’s, Men’s, Girls and Boys)
Worried about warmth? The venerable Nano Puff is the ultimate insulation insurance policy. Patagonia stuffed it with 60 grams of PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation Eco (sourced from 55% postconsumer recycled materials), which continues to trap heat even when wet. For how much warmth it packs, the Nano Puff is remarkably low-profile underneath your favorite ski shell. It packs down into its chest pocket and weighs next to nothing, so you can easily stash it in your pack or shell if you start to overheat. $119 for kids, $239 for adults.
Smartwool Classic Thermo Merino Quarter-Zip Base Layer Top (Women’s and Men’s)
Many misguided skiers and riders fret about outerwear yet forget about base layers. But the key to staying warm in winter is a holistic approach to layering, and base layers are just as mission-critical as flashier, pricier outerwear. When it comes to base layers that will keep you warm and dry, nothing beats this Classic Thermo Merino from Smartwool. The heavyweight wool fabric traps body heat next to skin, naturally wicks sweat and combats bacterial build-up. The stretchy top feels tailored thanks to a 3D-mapped fit, articulated elbows, paneled shoulders and flat seams. And while many skintight base layers are exclusively wearable on the hill, the quarter-zip silhouette and neutral colors are apropos for après too. $120
Smartwool Classic Thermo Merino Base Layer Bottoms (Women’s, Women’s Plus and Men’s)
Merino and mobility go together like fat skis and bottomless powder, which is why you’d be hard-pressed to find a better pairing for the Smartwool Merino Classic Merino Quarter-Zip Base Layer Top than—you guessed it—the Smartwool Classic Thermo Merino Base Layer Bottoms. They offer electric blanket-like warmth on cold chair rides, but help you dump heat when thigh burn sets in on powdery laps. Most importantly, though, they move with you, not against you, whether you’re popping through moguls or laying down high-speed GS turns. $115
Smith Grom ChromaPop Snow Goggles – Kids’
“Grom” is an endearing term for a young ripper, and the Grom goggles from Smith are purpose-built for kids who have small faces but still send it big. The goggles boast the same crystal-clear, contrast-heightening spherical ChromaPop lenses you’ll find on the brand’s premium adult options, but they’re sized to a medium youth fit. Antifog treatments and two-layer face foam ensure all-day clarity and comfort, and the semi-frameless design and vibrant colorways add a splash of fun to any kit. A note on fit: The Grom should fit most kids aged 6 to 9, but some preteens may want to size up to a small adult goggle like the I/O MAG S. $95
Smith Glide Jr. Mips Snow Helmet Kids’
Smith engineered the Glide Jr. Mips helmet with a simple premise at top of mind: Kids deserve the same protection as their parents. A classic in-mold construction—hard polycarbonate shell integrated with EPS foam interior—keeps weight down and safety first. On chilly days, a fuzzy fleece lining may just keep your little one from hightailing it to the lodge. Meanwhile, fixed vents help keep them cool on warmer spring sessions. With three adjustable sizes and a rainbow of colors to choose from, the Glide Jr. makes shopping for a kids’ ski helmet easier than cruising the greens at your local hill. $95
Smartwool Ski Full Cushion Over the Calf Socks
Don’t get cold feet—instead, get ready to drop in with Ski Full Cushion Over the Calf socks from Smartwool. A thick blend of merino wool, nylon and elastane serves up a just-right balance of warmth, moisture management and durability. Notably, though, the merino content naturally prevents stinky bacteria from finding their footing, which your carpool will appreciate. Pictured is the Iguchi Pattern designed with pro snowboarder Bryan Iguchi but these knee-high socks are available in different patterns and colors. $31
REI Co-op Power Wool Balaclava
Overexposing your nose to the elements is a classic rookie mistake. Instead, shred like a veteran in this wool balaclava from REI Co-op. A synthetic, durable-water-repellent-treated outer fabric serves as all-weather armor, protecting your face from sun, wind and snow. Inside, a soft, merino wool liner is warm and comfortable next to skin. The seams are unobtrusive, and the low-profile cut fits well beneath a helmet. $39.95
Hotronic Foot Warmer XLP 1C Custom Set
Do you need boot warmers? Of course not. But once you experience the joy of warm tootsies on a frigid day, you may change your tune. This kit from Hotronic includes a rechargeable heating element that turns hard, plastic ski boots into veritable saunas. It works with most insoles (including snowboard boots and hiking boots). Two small battery packs easily affix to an ankle cuff or power strap. Four settings allow for varying temperatures. $349
Interested in more staff picks and kits? Find more collections here.