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There’s nothing like skiing under dazzling blue skies. Don’t ruin it by dressing for a blizzard.
1. Trew Men’s Wander Jacket
A simple wind-blocking shell is all you need in epic weather. The trim cut of this one means it doesn’t feel like you are wearing a tent, and the lightweight construction makes it easy to pack or stuff in a backpack. If wind and clouds suddenly appear, no prob: You’re still protected.
$419
2. Faction Dictator 2.0
Engineered for hard-charging skiers, Faction’s Dictator series is supersaturated with aggressive specs: ultralight aluminum alloy skeletons; a dual radius sidecut for fast, precise turns; and a slight tail rocker that ups the fun factor in the powww.
$729
3. Smith Optics I/O 7
Skiing in sunglasses isn’t recommended beyond the bunny hill. Smith Optics’ latest goggles pair up with the company’s swappable ChromaPop lenses for different conditions. On the brightest days, snap in one of the antireflective lenses to nix nasty glare.
$200
4. Tecnica Freeride Cochise 130 Dyn
These ski slippers are popular with all-mountain adventurers who need rigidity but don’t want the brutal constriction of a race boot. They’re nice and stiff but light and maneuverable. Switch into the more forgiving walk mode for an après-ski stroll to the chalet.
$700
5. Snowshed 3-Season Helmet Beanie
Keeping your head warm is smart, even on beautiful days—it’s still winter, after all. Snowshed’s soft merino wool cap is thin and slight enough to fit under a helmet, so you don’t have to take it off when you strap on your safety gear.
$35
This article appears in the January issue. Subscribe now.