If you made it through this past week’s frigid temperatures, you’re well aware that winter is far from over. Snow-covered ski slopes, wide-open winter trails, and frozen lakes all are indicators that backcountry sports season is still rolling. And if you want to stay comfortable and get the most out of your winter activities, building your arsenal of backcountry gear is key.
Beyond a new pair of boots and beanies, (which you can never have too many pairs of), there are plenty of practical winter items and backcountry gear that are often overlooked.
With that, Cathy Schwartz, Christy Sports store manager at Denver West shares some of the best winter items designed to keep you warm, safe, and comfortable all winter long. Who knows, you may be able to score some end of season bargains as well.
Base Layer: Always start with a (non-cotton) base layer. As mentioned above, cotton holds moisture leaving your body cold and wet; a dangerous situation that could lead to hypothermia.
Schwartz recommends helmets and goggles fit well together, and if you need additional warmth, wear a balaclava under your helmet but never a stocking cap as it will affect the fit.
Wearing proper ski socks is a game-changer for skiers and snowboarders. “These socks are specifically designed to wick moisture away from your feet to keep them warm.” Says, Schwartz. And as always, never wear athletic cotton socks when skiing or riding as they don’t wick moisture and will keep your feet dangerously wet.
Specialized ski garments should be washed with tech wash to keep them performing at their best. Tech wash cleans effectively, reviving breathability and water repellency.
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Helmet
Head protection is imperative for winter sports, whether you’re a novice or a rookie. “This is the most important safety gear you can have to protect you from falls, trees, and other people on the mountain,” says Schwartz.
“Mittens are typically warmer but have less dexterity than gloves.” Says, Schwartz. Throw in a pair of hand warmers or go all out and get heated gloves to keep your hands toasty warm all day.
Skiing and riding in an alpine environment can dehydrate you much more quickly than you think. “Wearing a hydration pack is preferred to putting a water bottle in your jacket because you can be injured easily if you fall on the water bottle.” Explains Schwartz.
Perfect for adding a blast of extra warmth and comfort while protecting against frostbite, hand and feet warmers don’t take up much space in a backpack and come in handy when you’re in a frosty pinch!
Perfect for adding a blast of extra warmth and comfort while protecting against frostbite, hand and feet warmers don’t take up much space in a backpack and come in handy when you’re in a frosty pinch!
“The preferred method for those that need extra warmth in their boots is an integrated heat system,” says Schwartz. These boot heaters are battery-powered insoles that go directly into your boots and are a product that Christy Sports expert boot fitters can easily install in any boot.
