13 minute read
GEAR FOR THE SEASON
Gear
for the Season
Winter + Spring
21-22
Tested + Compiled by Covered Bridge Staff
1 2
5
8 9
3
7
10
1. BAFFIN CHLOE Winter boots are an important investment when you live and play in the mountains, and this extra-grippy option provides full traction and great warmth when you’re out in really cold temps. Shoveling snow and venturing out for groceries during a blizzard doesn’t seem so bad when you get to sport a pair of these boots. $186
baffin.com
2. POC DEVOUR GLACIAL Save your eyes on the snow by shielding them across the brow and at the sides with these full-coverage shades from POC. The Devour Glacial sunglasses provide a very large field of view and offer adjustable temples and nosepiece. $250
na.pocsports.com
3. RUFFWEAR DIRTBAG SEAT COVER Road trips with your best furry friend just got a little more comfortable for everyone. This durable and waterproof cover shields your vehicle’s backseat area, and the convertible design allows you to install the cover as a hammock configuration or just as a traditional cover. The non-slip (and machine-washable) fabric keeps dogs stable during the ride, and access to seatbelts stays available to keep human passengers secure. $79.95
ruffwear.com
4. OUTDOOR RESEARCH JUNEAU SHERPA FLEECE JACKET This cozy fleece is a perfect match with a favorite pair of leggings and boots. The Sherpa exterior, which is bonded to a flat-face fleece inside, gives this jacket a retro look but also keeps you warm on chilly days. With a relaxed fit, this fleece can accompany your afternoon during errands or wear it in the village on your way to happy hour. $129
outdoorresearch.com
5. ATHLETIC BREWING N/A BEER Quench your thirst post-adventure with a beer that’s not boozy. Athletic Brewing has a number of options, and we’ve loved the Run Wild: a sessionable IPA with a nice balance of hops and malt. At only 70 calories, you’ll still feel nice and light after one of these tasty brews. $12.99 per six-pack
athleticbrewing.com
6. GNARLY SPORTS NUTRITION HYDRATE This everyday hydration solution is formulated to optimally replace the fluid and electrolytes you lose when you sweat while also keeping you properly hydrated with all of the electrolytes (like sodium and magnesium) and B vitamins you need for active adventures. $25.95 per bag
gognarly.com
7. LEATHERMAN RAPTOR RESPONSE Ski patrollers and mountain rescue volunteers will want to have this with them always. The compact, portable shears cut through materials while the micro-serrations on the inner blade keep fabrics from slipping and binding. This multi-tool also features a ring cutter, ruler, oxygen tank wrench and pocket clip, so you’re ready to get to work in any situation. $69.95
leatherman.com
8. HIBEAR ALL-ADVENTURE FLASK This “Swiss Army tool of insulated bottles” can be used as an everyday water bottle, but it’s also designed to carry all your favorite beverages — from cold brew to cocktails. Every bottle also supports a local artist, is Climate Neutral Certified and gives 1% for the Planet. $85
hibearoutdoors.com
9. KLYMIT HOMESTEAD BLANKET This durable and cozy blanket is perfect to keep in the car for camping or to wrap up for après-ski on the back deck. With the Homestead, Klymit holds up their mission of high-quality, value-driven and comfortable gear for the outdoors. $180
klymit.com
10. SOLO STOVE FIRE PIT COOKING SYSTEM Sit outside and around the fire with friends and family to grill food together with this modular cast iron grill system for Solo Stove firepits. Now your Solo Stove isn’t just for warmth and smoke-free ambiance, and if you don’t have one yet, you can get it with the cooking system as a bundle. $215-$400
solostove.com
10 5
7
11 2 3
6
8 4
9
13
12
1. MEIER SKIS CROSSCUT BC Designed for backcountry travel, go uphill faster to earn your turns with these touring skis from Colorado-based Meier. The flat-torocker profile on these is built to tour more efficiently on the ascent and, then, carve through whatever you encounter on the ski down. $899
meierskis.com
2. SCARPA GEA + MAESTRALE RS The men's and women's versions of these backcountry ski boots from Scarpa both use the Evo V Frame cuff, which now utilizes Grilamid Bio — a planet friendly, renewable resource. The cuff increases torsional rigidity while also providing a 60-degree range of motion for long efficient strides. $800
scarpa.com
3. AIRBLASTER MERINO NINJA SUIT The unique fabric blend on this functional base layer is four-way stretch and dries faster than just wool on its own. The 350-degree waist zip makes bathroom breaks more accessible and a waistband drawstring allows for a tight or looser fit as desired. $109.95
myairblaster.com
4. KRIMSON KLOVER SUNRISE BASELAYER + LEGGING It’s the knitted compression of this seamless kit that helps you stay stylish with all the benefits of high-performance base layer technology. The fabric is four-way stretch and can be used as a first-layer while on the slopes or as an active outfit for yoga or hiking. Base Layer $149; Legging $99
krimsonklover.com
5. DÆHLIE CHALLENGE JACKET This softshell jacket repels wind and water, paired with a brushed interior for warmth when you’re out in the elements this winter. The front of the jacket is padded with Thermore Ecodown fiber, a 100% recycled fiber with highly effective insulation properties, which stays clump-free after washing. Fleece material lines the neck to provide extra warmth and comfort, and elastic panels under the arms and in the upper back allow for ideal mobility and ventilation when your running in the snow or cross-country skiing. $190
dahlie.com
14
6. LIGHT TOURS OF COLORADO BY LOU DAWSON This guidebook provides very helpful insight into a number of mellow, backcountry ski routes in Colorado to minimize avalanche exposure. Put together by renowned Colorado ski mountaineer Lou Dawson, it’s a resource to assist you with smart ski choices when you’re in the Vail area and many other locations throughout the state. $29.95
beaconguidebooks.com
7. DARN TOUGH MERINO WOOL RUN SOCKS These soft and temperature-regulating socks have truly been redesigned from the bottom up to create a better fitting, more comfortable and durable sock. We’ve tested them for running, hiking and sporting around town and can confirm these will stay a top-drawer choice with Covered Bridge staff. $16-$33
darntough.com
8. RAB CUBIT STRETCH DOWN HOODY Look no further for a versatile down jacket for all your mountain adventures. This hoody is made durable and comfortable with a wind-resistant stretch fabric, filled with 700 fill-power recycled down. Keep it by the door to throw on for everyday wear or use the included stuff sack to bring with you for your next trip to the backcountry. $300
rab.equipment/us/
9. SWEET PROTECTION TROOPER 2VI MIPS HELMET This strong and light helmet features an advanced integration system of helmet shell, shock absorbing liner and Mips brain protection technology. It’s also supplied with a removable Slalom Chin Guard in powder coated steel. $329.95
sweetprotection.com
10. MOUNTAIN HARDWARE POWABUNGA 32 PACK Whether you’re heading up the ski resort lift or into the backcountry, this durable backpack has ergonomic suspension and unique pivoting hip-belt to handle heavy loads and keep you balanced when you’re skinning uphill or shredding down the mountain. Multiple access points and a swing-around mode make is possible to grab your things without fully taking off the pack. $200
mountainhardwear.com
11. HILLSOUND TRAIL CRAMPON ULTRA Clock miles on packed snow this winter by turning your trail running shoes, hiking shoes and insulated boots into snow grips. These trail crampons have 18 stainless steel spikes and a steel toe bail with an elastomer harness around the foot and optional Velcro strap to keep the fit secure. We’ve found these more durable than other brands, and the puncture-proof carry bag makes storing and transporting your spikes safe and convenient. $75
hillsound.com
12. SPEKTRUM ÖSTRA BIO RAW GOGGLES Spektrum has taken another big step on their mission to be the most sustainable eyewear brand in the world by introducing this new concept called Östra Bio RAW. In this version, the main ingredients of the Östra frame are presented in undyed, raw versions. Renewable materials make up to 90% of these goggles, and their style also won’t go unnoticed. $250
spektrumsports.com
13. PEARL IZUMI THERMAL TIGHT A thermal fleece fabric insulates these tights, while the water-shedding outer layer keeps you dry from splashes and light rain. Wear these for cold weather running or cycling, and while they don’t have a built-in chamois, you can pull them over your favorite pair or just wear them on their own. $125
pearlizumi.com
14. PICTURE EXPEDITION LINE Picture’s entire Expedition Line is now made with BIO-SOURCED polyester. The shell fabric, which is derived from sugarcane waste and blended with recycled PET, reduces carbon emissions by 25% while providing the same level of durability and performance as traditional polyester. Purchase for less environmental impact while staying warm and dry on the slopes. Shown here is the Stone Jacket ($300) and Track Pant ($220).
picture-organic-clothing.com
Gear
For Lil’ Rippers
Winter + Spring
21-22
Compiled by Cameron Martindell
Kids thrive outside, but to keep them out there and happy the right gear can play a key role, especially in the mountains. Here are some tested favorites from a mountain-loving, adventure-focused family.
5 1
3
6
9 7
8 4
9
10
1. NORDICA SPEEDMACHINE J3 AND J2 JUNIOR SKI BOOTS The Speedmachine J3 and J2 junior ski boot features a new adjustable flex system for more control and confidence, especially as little rippers gain experience and want to push the envelope. The anatomical shell uses a blend of lighter weight plastics, including softer plastic in the in-step, making it easier to slide the boot on and off. The three-position flex adjustment is based on a child’s weight, either softening or stiffening fore and aft flex. Size range: J3 (20 – 26.5), J2 (16.5 – 23.5). $175-$200
nordica.com
2. ATOMIC SAVOR VISOR JR HELMET Having one less thing to manage or lose while getting ready for a ski day is gold. Enter the kid’s ski helmet with a built-in visor to make it easy for them to protect their little peepers from the harsh glare of the sun or blowing snow. Even at two years old, my boy could easily move the visor up or down to suit his needs. $150
atomic.com
3. PHUNKSHUN WEAR YOUTH PH FACE COVERING Phunkshun Wear is a Colorado-based company committed to sustainably manufacturing outdoor gear that delivers uncompromising performance and protection. These PH (Personal Hygiene) masks use the same great ActiPH fabric as the adult masks but in youth sizes. The outer layer is a mock-mesh featuring its Anti-Phunk odor control and is lined with MAX Wicking mesh to provide comfort. Available in over a dozen fun prints. $13
phunkshunwear.com
4. BOGS NEO-CLASSIC KID’S BOOTS From apres ski to play all day, warm, dry feet are key to happy kids playing in the snow for hours on end. These 100% waterproof boots from Bogs are easy for kiddos to put on themselves thanks to Bogs’ signature handle cutout at the top of the boots. The boots are full of features from reflective hits on the heels to a BLOOM eco-friendly, algae-based EVA foot bed. $90
bogsfootwear.com
5. CONTOUR KIDS SKI TOUR STARTER SET This kit converts any kid’s alpine skis into a ski touring setup. The adapter clicks right into the alpine binding for the tour, and then pops out for the descent. The kit also comes with trimmable 95 mm hybrid adhesive skins, which my seven-year-old was able to manage on her own. Minimum compatible boot sole length is 245 mm. $240
camp-usa.com
6. GARMIN VÍVOFIT JR. 3 Sure, not all parents are into putting tech pieces on their kiddos, and I’m mostly in that camp, but this watch has wooed me. First, my daughter had to be able to tell time on an analog face, and that’s the face I have her use on this watch. Second, the app and little world travel adventure game that goes with it are pretty clever. The watch has to log 60 active minutes to unlock the next chapter of the game on the app. I brush her hair while she learns about geography on my phone. Finally, the internal battery lasts for a year — no charging, no hassle. Brilliant. $80
garmin.com
7. WOOM BIKES Those beautiful, sunny Colorado days often melt the snow right off the roads leaving them clear and dry — ideal for biking! Woom has put together some great bikes spanning the full size range from 12-inch beginner balance bikes to 26-inch mountain bikes. They’re lightweight and get kids familiar with hand brakes instead of coaster brakes. They even have e-bikes for bigger kids! $200-$3,749
woombikes.com
8. PETZL MACCHU CLIMBING HARNESS & PICCHU HELMET This combo is perfect for parents looking to get their littles out climbing — in the gym or out on real rock. The Macchu sit harness is for kids under 40kg (88 lbs.) and has a padded waist with double buckle adjustment to keep the belay loop centered and adjustable leg loops to grow with the child. An optional chest harness (called the Body; $30) is great for smaller children needing full body support. The Picchu helmet is light enough for little necks to support it, yet strong enough to be rated for top and side impact by American and European standards as both a climbing and a cycling helmet. Realistically, it could be used for skiing, as well, but does not have warm ear flaps. The helmet harness can be tightened to fit various head sizes with just a squeeze; it fits both my four and seven-year-olds (they each have one)! $50 & $60
petzl.com
9. HYDRO FLASK 12 OZ KID’S WIDE MOUTH These water bottles are some of the most kid friendly and damage resistant we have ever used. The hard, flip straw is key to preventing new teeth from gnawing it apart, and it is totally leak proof (when completely closed). The little loop handle is easy to hold, and the insulated walls keep drinks warm or cold depending on the season. $30
hydroflask.com
10. ELAN KID’S U-FLEX SKIS The problem with short kid’s skis and a lightweight body is it makes it very difficult to get any flex out of a ski. Elan discovered that engineering a series of grooves crossing the width of the ski helped kids get that flex for more powerful turns and helped them progress faster. Available in 70-150 cm lengths and comes with a 4.5-7.5 GW Shift binding. $220
