It’s October, and that can only mean one thing (no, not the abominable pumpkin spiced everything). Ski season will soon be upon us. Let’s be honest, that North Face jacket you got in college – you know, the one that still has a lift ticket from 2004 attached – just isn’t going to make it through another winter. Whether you’re a season pass holding powder hound, or a weekend warrior who gets out a couple of times a year, this season is perfect to start improving your your gear closet. Our new favorite brand for everything winter related, from navigating urban streets to traversing serious avalanche terrain, is Jackson Hole based Stio.
The Vescent Soft Shell is the perfect foundation piece for all mountain skiing, and hitting the apres scene in town afterwards. The Sphero XT shell material provides wind proof and water resistant protection for all but the craziest storms. Four way stretch is a nice touch, allowing the sleeves and shoulders to stretch with you on long ascents. Finally, the jacket has just enough fleece lining for it to stand alone in cold temperatures. If you’re going to wear one coat all season, this is it.
For extreme cold, you’re going to need a to layer up a little when you head out into the elements. The new Marsten Down Vest is built for long days cutting firewood and searching for that perfect set of elk antlers that got shed for the winter. 500-fill goose down provides enough warmth to keep you happy when the mercury dips low, and the Pertex Microlight outer fabric is abrasion resistant against long days working outside or simply braving the morning commute.
With Stio’s fall line up your winter just got a lot more interesting. Instead of suffering through another long ski weekend shivering in your old gear, it’s time to upgrade to the best. Whether you’re putting together a gear list for your big Aspen trip, or simply looking for the best looking, comfortable outerwear, look no further.
