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8 Surf-Inspired Homes That’ll Make You Want to Move to the Coast

More than snowboarding, skateboarding, rock climbing or any other extreme pursuit, surfing occupies a niche in our cultural psyche that extends far beyond its participants. It’s thanks to the blissful naiveté of Spicoli, and the no-holds-barred attitude of Bodhi, not to mention the marketing efforts of a multi-billion dollar industry, that surfing has achieved a romanticism that makes living in a van by the beach not just admirable, but aspirational.

Matt Titone’s new book, Surf Shacks Vol. 2, manages to simultaneously reinforce and defy surfing’s engrained ideals. Its 200-plus pages provide momentary views inside the homes of figures well-known and obscure who both shape and are shaped by wave-riding culture. Some exude cohesion in their construction, as if made for the pages of interior design magazines, while others unabashedly bear the charm of their mess.

The very existence of these homes challenges the image of the board-toting vagabond, and Titone is clear-eyed about that: “While I chase waves where and when I can, the truth is I spend most of my days at the studio in front of a computer screen,” he writes in the book’s introduction. It’s not hard to imagine that many of the occupants of these so-called shacks might echo that sentiment. Nevertheless, there’s something mystically inspiring about putting up walls and filling them with ephemera, whether the view beyond them includes an ocean horizon or not.

Price: ~~$60.00~~ $49.21

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Jeff & Kara Johnson — Santa Barbara, California

Matt Titone

There’s a lot to be jealous of at the Johnson’s refurbished California A-frame. Jeff attributes the interior to Kara, and it’s plain that the natural playground outside, which includes rope swings and a wall for bouldering, comes from Jeff, who spends much of his time photographing and storytelling for brands like Patagonia and Roark Revival.

Taro Tamai — Hokkaido, Japan

Matt Titone

Taro Tamai‘s twin passions of surfing and snowboarding forced him to find a place where both are within reach. There are traces of both activities scattered throughout Tamai’s abode, which includes an indoor climbing wall and is situated above the workshop where he makes surfboard-like snowboards for his brand, Gentemstick.

Cole Barash — Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Matt Titone

New England might be an unlikely home for a surfer, but it’s called back to photographer Cole Barash since he visited with his family as a teenager. An oversized window that functions like a garage door is a central component of a room that doubles as his studio, providing proximity to the elements outside. And in Cape Cod, embracing them is required: “If it’s freezing rain, or snowing, or blowing hard out of the northeast, you kinda just suck it up and go,” says Barash.

Lyndsey Lee & Marc Faulkner — Portland, Oregon

Matt Titone

Before it was an apartment complex, Lyndsey Lee and Marc Faulkner’s home in Portland was a masonic temple, and before that, it was a factory warehouse. Without that history, the space probably wouldn’t have ceilings high enough to keep a stack of longboards upright in the corner. Outside the apartment, Lee worked to foster Portland’s urban surf scene at her shop, Leeward Surf.

Tatiana Barhar & Carlos Zubiet — Venice, California

Matt Titone

If Tatiana Barhar and Carlos Zubiet’s Venice home blends into its surrounding community, that’s partially because the pair has designed both. The couple has worked on stores and houses in Venice and beyond and collaborated to make the space where they currently dwell (living in an Airstream trailer in the yard as it happened).

Charles Adler — Long Beach, California

Matt Titone

Charles Adler is a surf industry veteran, working as a graphic designer, curator, historian, retail designer and art director. Perhaps it’s that variety, plus the common artistic thread that ties each role to the other, that lets surf photos, ukuleles, pinecones, a Buddha statue and a whale vertebrae function as unified design elements of a single room.

Scott Richards — Newport Beach, California

Matt Titone

That Scott Richards’ Newport Beach flag-making studio occupies a loft formerly used for sail manufacturing is part coincidence. But the air of nostalgia that fills it is all Richards, whose retro surf flags are as equally influenced by his Detroit upbringing as they are by beach culture. They aren’t the only items that cover the studio’s walls, though; books, posters, trophies, skateboard decks and an eclectic collection of other items occupy any leftover gaps.

Geoff McFetridge — Los Angeles, California

Matt Titone

Whether you’ve recognized it or not, you’ve seen Geoff McFetridge’s work. His designs have appeared in The New York Times and Target advertisements, and brands like Nike and Patagonia have contracted him to enliven their products. But you’ve never seen the inside of his 1950s LA home, which is perhaps best encapsulated by the long and very retro kitchen.

Gestalten

Surf Shacks Vol. 2

gestalten amazon.com

$54.27

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November 9, 2020 / Comments Off

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The Best Wiper Blades for Your Car

Rain-X

Wiper blades may be the biggest afterthought on your car. No one buys a car because it has a great set of windshield wipers; indeed, you may not think about them for months or years…until that freak monsoon makes them your car’s most crucial piece of safety tech.

And while you typically don’t think about replacing them so until you see a telltale piece of rubber hanging off or hear the horrific sound of them scoring your windshield, wiper manufacturers sometimes tell you to replace them every few months. And it happens to be the easiest bit of car maintenance you can do yourself. You don’t need any tools; opposable thumbs will suffice. You pop the old ones off; you pop the new ones on. At worst, you may need to attach an adapter, which should come with the new wipers.

Wiper blades are also an item you can source for yourself without going to a specialist auto parts store; you can grab them on Amazon with ease. That said, there are a few factors that you should consider when buying a new set:

Types of Wipers

Conventional wipers, most often found on older cars, have a metal frame attached to a rubber blade. They tend to be the cheapest option. Beam-style wipers, made from a solid piece of rubber, tend to be the most expensive; on the flip side, they are more flexible, better performing, better for snow and ice, and more durable. Hybrid wipers are, just as they sound, a hybrid option between the two — typically with rubber covering the metal frame.

Local Weather

Consider where you live. If you reside in Palm Springs, having the optimal set of wiper blades probably won’t matter so much. If you live somewhere rainy like Louisiana, you may want better ones. If you’re up in Minnesota, you’ll probably want wipers that are optimized for cold weather — at least come fall.

Size Matters

Different cars have different sizes of blades; indeed, the two wipers on your windshield can be different sizes, as well. Luckily, you can find that information easily enough in your car’s owner’s manual or on the Internet. You can also input your car model on sites like Amazon and view a list of all compatible wipers.

The Best Windshield Wiper Blades You Can Buy

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Just Get This: Rain-X Latitude 2-in-1

Rain-X

$15.27

Best All-Around Windshield Wiper

The Rain-X Latitude is a beam wiper blade that uses a synthetic rubber designed for durability in extreme weather. It also leaves a water-repelling coating on the windshield that lasts for months.

The Step-Up: Bosch Icon

Best Upgrade Windshield Wiper

Bosch’s Icon is the German performance car of wiper blades. The company says its patented rubber compound is 40 percent more durable than other premium wipers. Tension spring-arcing technology offers a customized windshield fit. It also uses an aerodynamic spoiler to distribute uniform downforce across the blade.

The Best Winter and Snow Tires You Can Buy

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We picked the best tires to help you stay mobile through the winter months.

Smart Spend: ANCO 31-Series Wiper Blade

Best Affordable Wiper Blade

The ANCO 31-Series wiper blade is a solid, conventional replacement blade. It uses a “KwikConnect” system for easy installation and a “DuraKlear” rubber compound to provide a clear, consistent wipe.

Michelin Stealth Ultra Windshield Wiper Blade

Best Windshield Wiper for Winter

These Michelin hybrid wiper blades feature a segmented hard cover that protect the blade from ice and snow while still offering maximum flexibility. A smart hinge and independent suspension help the blade adjust to the windshield and maintain maximum contact.

The 11 Pieces of Gear You Absolutely Need for Car Camping

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Car camping makes getting away easy as pie. These items will make the experience even tastier.

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November 7, 2020 / Comments Off

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Hear Us Out — One of the Best Pieces of Surf Safety Gear Is a Hat

Getting barreled has long been the one reliable way surfers could find a bit of shade in the water, until now. Surf hats are slowly gaining popularity among the wave-riding community, and it’s no surprise — the degenerative effects the sun can have on one’s eyes and skin after prolonged exposure in the water are plain. And it’s more than a matter of the appearance of your skin; sun protection might just save your life (cue dramatic interlude).

We all know applying sunblock is crucial. The problem for surfers is that once is not enough, and hours-long sessions in the water often leave them exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays without any defenses. The dangers of UV rays are not breaking news to anyone — skin cancer cases have continued to grow since the early 1970s. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, occurs when pigment cells turn cancerous, which is exacerbated by prolonged exposure to UV rays. Some twenty years later the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began to recognize and track the strength of UV rays, and in 1994 created the UV Index, which helps people determine and avoid overexposure.

What’s more, the EPA has determined that water can reflect up to 10 percent more UV radiation than typical soil ground (sand can reflect up to 15 percent). And if that’s not enough to scare you, researchers at Bond University in Australia found in 2015 that surfers are three times more likely than non-surfers to develop melanoma. Hold onto your hats because here’s where wearing one begins to make sense. Though it’s still recommended you apply sunblock, wearing a surf hat creates a physical barrier that can be your next-best defense against the sun. And a surf hat won’t only protect your skin but could save your eyes too (don’t get us started on cataracts).

The surf industry is catching on, with apparel brands adding adjustable straps to all styles of hats, including baseball caps, five panels and, of course, the classic bucket. The difficulty is finding the right fit, or, specifically, the right strap. Just like with bike helmets, ill-fitting ones can be somewhat uncomfortable — and there’s nothing more agonizing than being held underwater without air, except maybe being held underwater without air, while being choked. It could take a couple of tries to find the perfect fit, but it’s guaranteed to pay off in the long run. Of course, if you’re confident enough in your ability, you can skip the strap — check out Patagonia’s new line of hats featuring brims made of 100 percent recycled fishing nets. The rest of us can start with any of the other surf hats below.

Dakine Indo Surf Hat

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Dakine’s bucket hat provides excellent coverage and is even equipped with a secret stow-away neck flap. The brim is made of foam, making it light on your head and ensuring it floats in the water should you get separated from it.

Price: $40

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Vissla Little Hatch Surf Hat

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This stylish denim-like hat is made with water-resistant fabric that won’t weigh you down. Its side flaps are complete with mesh inlays for your ears so you can still hear your buddies on the line.

Price: $31

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Creatures of Leisure Surf Cap

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The Surf Cap is fixed with a long brim that shades the whole face. In our testing, we found the strap was comfortable on the chin, and the clasp was easy to undo too. This hat also features a removable safety attachment that connects to your wetsuit or rash guard to help ensure it doesn’t get lost in the waves.

Price: $30

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Rip Curl Wetty Surf Cap

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The Wetty is versatile enough to sport on and off the beach thanks to a minimal design featuring a detachable strap and neck cover.

Price: $30

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Billabong Surf Cap

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This sleek design is made from recycled boardshorts, making it a double win for your skin and the planet. Its vented ear covers and neoprene strap add a level of comfort and performance.

Price: $23

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Patagonia Line Logo Ridge LoPro Trucker Hat

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Patagonia’s classic trucker hat features a quick-drain mesh in the back and a brim made with Bureo’s fully traceable NetPlus 100 percent recycled fishing nets.

Price: $35

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November 6, 2020 / Comments Off on Hear Us Out — One of the Best Pieces of Surf Safety Gear Is a Hat
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Add a Pop of Color to Your Kit with These Goggles

Humans are, for the most part, highly visual creatures — especially when it comes to extreme sports and the great outdoors. It’s no surprise then, that a sunny mountain top covered in pristine white snow presents something of a challenge to folks attempting to ski down it. In fact, if there’s one thing skiers and scuba divers need more than water itself, it’s a good pair of goggles. As for the former, these new Squad MAG Goggles from Smith Optics are just about as good as it gets. From interchangeable ChromaPop™ lenses to easy helmet-integration and fog-free performance, find out exactly what makes the new Squad MAG Goggles so great below.

Smith Optics

1.

Pop Go The Details: Smith’s ChromaPop™ lenses enhance the contrast and natural color of the wearer’s visual field, which is never more useful than when you’re about to slice into a swathe of untouched powder. Swap out the stale sepia tone lenses you’ve been using for some of these bad boys and your life will be a lot more, well… colorful.

2.

It Must Be MAG-ic: The Squad MAG Goggles feature Smith’s MAG™ lens change system, which uses magnets for quick, easy and convenient lens changes. Say goodbye to the spare goggles in your backpack for when the clouds roll in — just swap the lenses out on the fly and make the most of your time on the mountain.

3.

No Fogging Way: Smith built the Squad MAG Goggles to be ultra-compatible with its line of helmets, designing not only for optimal comfort and temperature regulation, but fog-free performance too.

BUY NOW: $220

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November 6, 2020 / Comments Off on Add a Pop of Color to Your Kit with These Goggles
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Right Now, You Can Save 20% off a Full Price Item at Backcountry

A few times a year, Backcountry runs the type of promotion that we wait for — 20 percent off of one full-price item. It’s a great time to pull the trigger on an item that isn’t normally included in Backcountry’s other promotions throughout the year. Maybe you’ve been eyeing one one of Yeti’s stellar hard coolers. Or maybe you’re in the market for Patagonia’s high-performing insulated Micro Puff jacket. Whatever the case, there’s never been a better time to splurge on the item you’ve had on your wishlist. And if you aren’t in the market for anything for yourself, it’s a great excuse to get your holiday shopping done early.

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November 6, 2020 / Comments Off on Right Now, You Can Save 20% off a Full Price Item at Backcountry
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Tackle Winter with This Extreme Cold Weather Jacket from Carhartt

Cold weather is coming — whether you’re ready for it or not. And if you’re a part of the latter and have avoided preparing for the season, now is the time to invest in a jacket that can take on the elements. Carhartt — the masters of durable outdoor apparel and gear — have perfected an insulated jacket to keep you warm, comfortable and dry. Engineered for ultimate performance in the coldest conditions, the Yukon Extremes® Insulation Jacket sports a Cordura® nylon shell and Thinsulate featherless insulation. In other words, it’ll keep you perfectly warm without any excess weight or bulkiness. The jacket is crafted to take on even the windiest days and it’s finished with durable water repellent to keep you dry on the move. So if you’re looking for the gear that lets you work through whatever weather may come your way, you really can’t go wrong with Carhartt’s Yukon Extremes® Insulation Jacket.

Buy Now: $170

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November 6, 2020 / Comments Off on Tackle Winter with This Extreme Cold Weather Jacket from Carhartt
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Goldwin’s Ultimate Cold Weather Clothing Kit

Goldwin

Winter is upon us. The snow has begun to fly, the ski resorts have fired up their snowmaking systems, the temperatures have steadily continued to fall. Gone is fall’s autumnal color palette, stamped out by winter’s cool whites and blues. This time of year requires a wardrobe of specialized clothing if you are to seek out an adventure — or in some cases if you endeavor to leave your apartment. Goldwin makes an assortment of just such clothing — like its Spur Down Parka, which is among the warmest jackets money can buy. We curated the ultimate cold-weather winter kit to compliment the Spur Down Parka, so you can be toasty warm, even in a blizzard.

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Spur Down Parka

Goldwin Goldwin

$820.00

Goldwin’s Spur Down Parka is one of the most heat-retaining options in its entire inventory. It’s stuffed full of a mixture of high-loft down and KODENSHI down — a ceramic fiber that uses far-infrared radiation to reflect your own body heat back to you for reabsorption. Plus, with ample pocket storage and an insulated placket for extra protection against wind, you can pretty much climb into this parka and self-isolate from coldness until next spring.

Down Cardigan

Goldwin Goldwin

$400.00

If you live somewhere that feels like one big snowbank for most of the winter, you’re probably all-too familiar with the shovel sweats. It’s freezing outside, you’re ten minutes into shoveling the driveway with your down parka on and already drenched with sweat. A good mid-layer is so important if you’re doing anything more demanding than walking the dog — and this down cardigan is perfect for just that. Slim enough to be a mid-layer under something else, but warm enough on its own too.

Wool Grid Leggings

Goldwin Goldwin

$220.00

Few things are as integral to a winter kit as a good base layer. Most will keep you warm, but the best will also regulate temperature, wick away moisture and ward off any bacterial smells — as is the case here with Goldwin’s Wool Grid Leggings.

Wool Grid Crew Neck

Goldwin Goldwin

$260.00

Why restrict the benefits of wool to just your lower body? Goldwin’s Wool Grid Crew Neck is made with the same materials as the Wool Grid Leggings, offers the same benefits. Even if you aren’t heading out for a winter adventure, this layer works as a welcome replacement to a traditional sweatshirt.

Thebe GTX Pants

Goldwin Goldwin

$499.00

Whether you’re heading out on a ski trip or just braving the long walk to the mailbox after a foot of snow, having a waterproof shell pant is imperative. Not only will they keep you warm and dry, but they’ll also protect you from snow’s surprisingly abrasive qualities.

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November 2, 2020 / Comments Off on Goldwin’s Ultimate Cold Weather Clothing Kit
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The Best New Knives and EDC of November 2020

In case you haven’t noticed, it’s November. But you probably have because drugstores have already chucked the Halloween candy into bargain bins and filled shelves with Christmas trinkets instead. As much as we’d like them to slow that roll, thinking about holiday shopping a little earlier this year isn’t a bad thought: shipping companies are expecting it to get hectic. Need ideas? Consider one of these recently released pocket knives and accessories.

The James Brand Pike

Courtesy

The Pike is The James Brand’s contemporary take on the old-timey jackknife. It doesn’t have a lock or a flipper tab, but it does have a 12c27 stainless steel blade and a sleek handle that comes in G10, Micarta and wood.

Price: $120

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Matador Waterproof Canisters

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Compared to its highly innovative adventure bags, Matador’s Travel Canisters are shockingly simple. Made of aluminum and silicone, they’re lightweight and have enough volume for small things like pills or toothpicks. They’re also waterproof, so those things will stay useable wherever you take them.

Price: $8+

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Filson Woodsman’s Knife

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Filson’s newest fixed blade knife comes from the forge of Nicholas Bachtel, who makes each one by hand using high-carbon 1084 steel and a curly maple wood handle. The knife is exclusive to Filson and only available in a very limited batch.

Price: $395

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Gerber Terracraft

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The Terracraft is the debut knife in Gerber’s new Reserve program, a collection that will consist of limited runs of pocket knives made in America with premium materials. For its part, the Terracraft uses a drop-point S30V blade and G10 scales in its sleek fixed-blade construction.

Price: $150

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Giantmouse ACE Nimbus V2

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The Nimbus helped establish Giantmouse, a collaboration between designers Jesper Voxnaes and Jens Anso, and now it’s back. The updates aren’t extensive, but the major one to note is the switch to super-premium Elmax blade steel. The handle is also slightly more ergonomic, and the entire package is lighter at 3.8 ounces.

Price: $175

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Benchmade 940BK-2003 Osborne

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The Osborne is far from new. Benchmade has been producing it for 20 years, which is why the brand decided to commemorate the folding pocket knife with a limited edition of the design made with top-tier ingredients. This model’s handles are milled titanium, while its blade is high-grade S90V steel. It’s quite pricey at $475, but the gorgeous black and blue design is at least worth a glance.

Price: $475

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November 2, 2020 / Comments Off on The Best New Knives and EDC of November 2020
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Ski Season is Already Here. Now’s the Time to Invest in the Right Gear

Believe it or not — in certain parts of the country, it’s already started to snow and ski season is already here. Now’s the perfect time to invest in or upgrade your gear to make the most out of your next visit to slopes. Backcountry has recently released its latest Winter Gear Guide, helping you make the right decisions on winter gear this season. Whether you’re a first time skier or an alpine touring pro, the Winter Gear Guide has compiled a list of state-of-the art equipment that suits your needs and skill level. Standout alpine touring products like the Backcountry x Moment Pressure Drop Ski, Black Diamond Jetforce Tour 26L Backpack or the Backcountry Plinko Carbon Touring Ski Pole are enough to get anyone excited for winter. Head over to Backcountry and let the experts guide you through their the picks of the best gear.

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November 2, 2020 / Comments Off on Ski Season is Already Here. Now’s the Time to Invest in the Right Gear
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What You Need to Get into Backcountry Skiing

“Wanna Get Away” went viral in the mid-2000s as the punchy tagline of Southwest Airlines, encouraging people trapped in awkward moments to say ‘yes’ to travel. But I’d like to make the case it arrived a decade or so early.

As we near the end of 2020 — a lap around the sun I affectionately call The Dumpster Fire — we’re unified behind almost nothing, other than a search for a respite. We all need a damn break. With a chaotic present and unknown future, our collective blood pressure is on par with a chase scene from a Mad Max movie. Over the summer, this hunger for escape created historic booms in RVing, camping and cycling, activities deemed safe and… free.

With winter looming and resorts taking steps to space out the humans, I’m predicting many skiers – maybe even you – will consider a foray into backcountry touring. Doing so safely requires the right cocktail of skills, knowledge and gear. Each ingredient takes time to figure out and master. I’m not here to offer you the cheat codes, but rather to get you started on the right [skin] track.

Backcountry ski equipment is made for a wide variety of styles and types of adventures, from deep sidecountry pow days to light-and-fast spring volcano missions. While some skis are able to handle double duty, even they come with compromises. Here are a few recommendations to get started.

Jacket

Mountain Hardwear

Staying warm after heavy exertion by staying dry. The key is finding an outer shell that breathes well while keeping moisture out. A durable and stretch 3-layer Gore-Tex jacket like Mountain Hardwear’s High Exposure is your ticket. A clever design including large pockets for gloves and a hood fit for a ski helmet make it great for going up and down, on cold and warm days alike.

SHOP NOW: $550 | GOLD HOUR, L-XXL: $385

Puffy

Patagonia

Finding the perfect mid-insulation layer has been my lifelong holy grail. I could write a book on the matter, but I’ll spare you the details and just get to the point. Patagonia’s Nano Air Hoody will keep you warm while ripping down the backcountry slopes — without leaving overheated on the uphill skintrack. It’s great for cool mornings and quick breaks, and it’s easy to pack when not in use.

SHOP NOW: $299

Bottoms

Arc’Teryx

For the frigid days when getting out of a bed is a challenge unto itself, a pair of Axino Knickers from Arc’teryx are a cozy way to keep your legs warm all day. A simple design that doesn’t interfere with your boots is barely noticeable after you put them on. I often find myself wearing them all day, even after the tour has ended.

SHOP NOW: $199 | S and XL: $149

Pack

Mammut

Thanks to years of education and advocacy efforts, almost all backcountry skiers bring along a shovel, beacon and probe, which are often called “the essentials.” This is a big step forward – except it’s missing one thing, an airbag pack. These packs help skiers caught in an avalanche float to the top. The Mammut Pro X 3.0 is built to deploy in seconds and helps keep you safer. It’s also loaded with technical features that ease long days in the backcountry.

SHOP NOW: $770

Goggles

POC

Conditions change quickly and frequently in the backcountry, meaning versatile and durable gear is indispensable. The Orb Clarity from POC has a dual frame that’s great in a variety of snow and light conditions, and it’s easy to switch when a different lens is needed.

SHOP NOW: $250

Poles

Leki

A bad set of poles can ruin an otherwise lovely ski day. Finding a set that is light yet strong is important. It’s even better if they can be packed down and stowed for easy transport — especially useful for you splitboarders out there. I prefer Leki’s Guide Extreme V. It has a solid grip and comfortable strap, plus a basket designed to flip touring bindings without bending over.

SHOP NOW: $250

Gloves

Hestra

Nothing is worse than having to call it early because your fingers are frozen solid. The solution is a well insulated pair of gloves that offer enough dexterity to fiddle with bindings and unzip jackets, without taking them off. My go-to pair is the Fall Line from Hestra, a leather glove with an excellent pole grip.

SHOP NOW: $160

Skis

Courtesy

If you’re looking for advice on the one-quiver ski, you’ve come to the wrong place. I’ve searched long and hard and frankly, it doesn’t exist, despite what some ski makers will advertise. Instead, here are a few options for different styles of backcountry touring. If you’re just getting into the sport and splitting time between slackcountry and the resort, I’d suggest some Agent 3.0s from Faction. You can lay them over on groomers just as easily as you can punch through absolute crud. If you’re hunting the deepest pow stashes, find yourself a pair of Pagoda Tour 112s from DPS. Light and wide, these sticks will float over almost anything. If you’re on a mission to bag every peak possible and willing to sacrifice slaying powder, check out the Endurance 88s from Renoun, which punch well above their weight class.

Agent 3.0: $749 | Pagoda Tour 112: $1,299 | Endurance 88: $899

Bindings

Hagan Mountaineering

Like skis, the ideal binding depends on your style of skiing and your type of terrain. But if you’re in the market for a versatile, sturdy, no-fuss option, I’d suggest the Core Pro 12 from Hagan Mountaineering. Produced by a small outfit often overshadowed by larger players with big advertising dollars, these simple, smart bindings will serve you well.

SHOP NOW: $650

Skins

G3

I’m all about carefully cutting weight to help me go faster and farther, but there are a few places I make exceptions. One of those is a quality pair of skins that enables me to climb steep slopes without slipping. My favorite are G3’s Alpinist+ Grip Skins, which are made with nylon and perfect for icy slopes and skin tracks.

SHOP NOW: $184+

Comm Gear

bca

Somewear

Whether you’re keeping tabs on your party in a whiteout or lining up the perfect shot for the ‘gram, good communication is key. I encourage every person I ski with to carry a radio. I rely on a BCA Link 2.0 myself because it’s reliable, simple to use and mounts easily onto the shoulder strap of just about any pack. For emergency situations I bring a Global Satellite from Somewear Labs, which allows me to text from just about anywhere or send an SOS if needed.

BCA Link 2.0: $180 | Global Satellite: $350

Beer

Long Root

I’d be remiss not to mention the most important piece of ski touring gear, the car beer (please drink responsibly). Smooth and tasty Long Root Ale is ethically produced by Patagonia, so you can celebrate a good day in the backcountry while using your dollars to support the preservation of the places we all love.

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Today’s Top Deals

Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Canceling Headphones

Amazon

$278.00

<a class="clickable-image-link clickable-image-embed-item clickable-image-product-link" href="https://gear.gp/sHTpW" target="_blank" data-vars-ga-product-sem3-brand="" data-vars-ga-product-sem3-category="" data-vars-ga-product-brand="" data-desturl="https://gear.gp/sHTpW" data-id="" data-order="2" data-vars-ga-product-price="$139.30" data-vars-ga-product-id="7071834f-7769-4b3b-8b2e-1bfe34993af8" data-vars-ga-media-role="" data-vars-ga-product-sem3-id="" data-vars-ga-outbound-link="https://gear.gp/sHTpW" aria-label="~~$199~~ $139 Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Jacket”>

Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Jacket

Backcountry

$60 OFF (30%)

Patagonia’s Nano Puff Jacket is one of its best — it’s light, packable and perhaps the most versatile layer one can own. While only two colors are on sale currently at Backcountry (Supply Green and Mango), the Nano Puff at 30 percent off is usually a deal to take advantage (especially heading into the colder months.

READ OUR DOWN JACKETS GUIDE

<a class="clickable-image-link clickable-image-embed-item clickable-image-product-link" href="http://bit.ly/AE-Chelsea" target="_blank" data-vars-ga-product-sem3-brand="" data-vars-ga-product-sem3-category="" data-vars-ga-product-brand="" data-desturl="http://bit.ly/AE-Chelsea" data-id="" data-order="3" data-vars-ga-product-price="$115.03" data-vars-ga-product-id="8adc48b6-b98e-4df0-a548-8b13e0e2f769" data-vars-ga-media-role="" data-vars-ga-product-sem3-id="" data-vars-ga-outbound-link="http://bit.ly/AE-Chelsea" aria-label="~~$375~~ $260 Allen Edmonds Nomad Chelsea Boot”>

Allen Edmonds Nomad Chelsea Boot

Allen Edmonds

$116 OFF (30%)

Chelsea boots are popular for good reasons. They’re quick to put on and can be easily dressed up or down. This made in America version from Allen Edmonds isn’t normally a top Gear Patrol pick due to its higher price point, but at this sale price, they are a great value.

READ OUR CHELSEA BOOTS GUIDE

<a class="clickable-image-link clickable-image-embed-item clickable-image-product-link" href="https://gear.gp/Yip5h" target="_blank" data-vars-ga-product-sem3-brand="" data-vars-ga-product-sem3-category="" data-vars-ga-product-brand="" data-desturl="https://gear.gp/Yip5h" data-id="" data-order="4" data-vars-ga-product-price="$179.95" data-vars-ga-product-id="3011e8ec-1606-4afd-8263-577019a2aed7" data-vars-ga-media-role="" data-vars-ga-product-sem3-id="" data-vars-ga-outbound-link="https://gear.gp/Yip5h" aria-label="~~$300~~ $180 Le Creuset 3.5 qt. Cast Iron Round Sauteuse”>

Le Creuset 3.5 qt. Cast Iron Round Sauteuse

Wayfair

$121 OFF (40%)

Deals on Le Creuset items in basic colors are rare. Keep in mind that a sauteuse pan is lower and wider than a traditional dutch oven, which makes it better at simmering and searing.

READ OUR DUTCH OVEN GUIDE

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October 31, 2020 / Comments Off on What You Need to Get into Backcountry Skiing
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Hurry, Under Armour’s Wildly Popular Face Mask Is Back in Stock (For Now)

There are a lot of things that sell out within the span of a few hours. Rare, coveted streetwear? Sure. Hell, selling many (many) thousands of dollars worth of the stuff is a typical Thursday morning for a brand like Supreme. Rare, coveted kicks? You bet. I see you one Supreme drop and raise you any limited-edition Jordan release. (And that’s just the tip of the iceberg!) But face masks? Not usually. Up until recently, that one was an entirely new phenomenon. Well, not anymore.

When Under Armour dropped the first iteration of its signature Sportsmask this summer, people flocked to the brand’s site en masse to stock up, kicking off a shopping frenzy that generated a whole lot of good ol’ fashioned buzz in the process. But if you were new to the here-one-second-gone-the-next nature of a certain type of online shopping—lucky you!—and missed out completely on that first drop, today’s your lucky day. Because as of right now, the brand’s beloved face mask is temporarily back in stock in a full range of colors (and an expanded range of sizes), though if past selling history is any indication they won’t stick around for long.

Is 30 bucks a lot of money to spend on a single mask? In a word: yes. Is it worth it? That depends. If you work out seriously (or fancy yourself a bit of an amateur “athlete”) the mask’s attention to detail really is tough to beat. Under Armour’s whole proposition—the brand’s shtick, to put it in technical marketing terms—is centered around the idea of performance-enhancing gear actually, y’know, enhancing your performance. And by all measures, the brand’s Sportsmask remains the one to beat if you’re in the market for a mask specifically designed with high-intensity workouts in mind. Which also means it should be more than enough for your daily sanity walk around the block.

Head on over to the Under Armour site to get yours while supplies last. Hey, it’s about time someone scored a W around here.

UA Sportsmask

UnderArmour

$30.00

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October 30, 2020 / Comments Off on Hurry, Under Armour’s Wildly Popular Face Mask Is Back in Stock (For Now)
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239

This Is the Perfect Setup for Shredding the Backcountry This Winter

There’s a familiar expression that folks from colder climates love to sprinkle into conversation any time someone complains about the elements. “There is no bad weather — only bad clothing,” they’ll say with infuriating smugness. And while they do have a point — the right gear can make a better time of bad weather — it unfortunately cannot make your friend more fun to be around. Still, when you’re on the slopes — and especially in the backcountry — your kit is your closest companion. That’s why Backcountry has crafted the ultimate setup for shredding the backcountry. Whether you’re carving powder at the peak or spraying slush down in the glades, this kit is a testament to your friend’s favorite expression — there really is no bad weather with gear this good.

Backcountry Cottonwoods Gore-Tex Jacket & Bib Pant

Gear Patrol Studios

Gear Patrol Studios

Gear Patrol Studios

Gear Patrol Studios

It really shouldn’t come as a surprise that Backcountry makes some of the best ski and snowboard gear available, seeing as the brand is named after the environment that inspired its existence, and this Cottonwoods Gore-Tex Jacket is a testament to that very fact. The jacket’s burly hardshell is designed for skiing and riding in wet, snowy conditions and backed by a waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex membrane. Articulated sleeve patterning makes for easy mobility, an adjustable hood and cuffs seal out chilly mountain weather and an internal powder skirt protects against full-body deposits into the powder bank.

To that effect, the Cottonwoods Gore-Tex Bib Pant is equally well-suited for the backcountry. Just like their upstairs neighbor, these snow pants feature burly Gore-Tex fabric for waterproof, breathable performance and additional bomber protection for skiing or boarding in wet, snowy conditions. Articulated knees and stretch panels offer full mobility while inner-thigh ventilation points can be zipped open for cool air. Conversely, internal ankle gaiters keep snowdrifts from dripping down your boots, and pockets deep enough for your goggles offer secure stash-points for whatever you want to carry with you.

BUY NOW: $399 (JACKET) BUY NOW: $349 (PANTS)

To Round Out The Kit

Gear Patrol Studios

Wolverine Cirque Hooded Jacket by Backcountry $239
Double Ski & Snowboard Rolling Bag by Backcountry $199
4D Mag Chromapop Goggles by Smith $300
Freeride CZone Mitten by Hestra $123

October 30, 2020 / Comments Off on This Is the Perfect Setup for Shredding the Backcountry This Winter
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330

Stoic’s New Accessible Camping Gear Cured My Insomnia

Stoic Groundwork Sleeping Bag: 20 Degree Synthetic, $84.95, backcountry.com

I tend to sleep very poorly – can’t fall asleep, can’t stay asleep – and, frankly, it’s been even harder since the world devolved into chaos six months ago. So when I headed up north of Brooklyn last month for a camping weekend with my Corona-Pod friends, I was not exactly thrilled at the prospect of trying to catch some shuteye in a tent — even with some new gear from the first camping collection by Stoic, Backcountry’s accessible outdoor gear brand, in tow.

I figured my body would be kept warm enough to survive and, hopefully, un-punctured by rocks and roots. So imagine my surprise when I clocked two respectable sleeps in a row.

Stoic sent along a couple items: the Groundwork Sleeping Bag and Ascend Lightweight Air Pad, which happen to come in some beautifully calm hues. The bag stuffs into a roughly 16×10-inch bag and weighs a tad over three pounds, and the pad rolls up into a 12-inch-long sleeve. Probably not gear I’d want to haul in a pack for a very long hike, but absolutely just right for tossing into the back of my Jeep.

Stoic’s gear is meant to be accessible and affordable; on those fronts and in terms of performance, these two items deliver mightily. There are plenty of other items in the collection: tents, furniture and blankets that all coordinate aesthetically and functionally to provide a 360-degree camping experience.

Courtesy

Stoic Groundwork Sleeping Bag: 20 Degree Synthetic

Inside the sleeping bag, I kept on a light merino base layer and socks (ok, and a beanie because… no hair) and was toasty as can be in 50-degree temps. Stoic suggests the DWR-finished nylon material would be fine against bare skin, which I have no reason to doubt.

At six feet tall I had plenty of room, even though Stoic suggests that as a max height, and though I’m personally quite thin I’m confident someone with fifty pounds on me would be comfy too. It’s as easy to burrow into as it is to wriggle out of if you have to, you know, get rid of some good fall beers in the wee hours.

But as impressive as the Groundwork was, I think the pad might have come out ahead for me. It blows up in just about a minute and rolls into its thin sleeve just as fast. I think what struck me most about the Ascend was that at least part of the nights I laid on my side and still felt cushioned and comfy.

Courtesy

Stoic Ascend Lightweight Air Pad

To be fair, there were many variables that contributed to my slumber – the contrast to my normal surroundings was stark, of course. At our distinctly non-city campsite, I’d been breathing crisp, clean air; I was away from countless stressors; my normal nocturnal soundtrack of twilight trash collection and rolling bodega gates was swapped for crickets and coyote howls. But even without my cozy apartment and very nice memory foam mattress, I got truly great rest.

I have more fall camping trips scheduled, and no concern about getting a good night’s sleep. All I have to worry about now is how much shopping I’m going to do – there are a lot other items in the new collection to try out.

LEARN MORE

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October 28, 2020 / Comments Off on Stoic’s New Accessible Camping Gear Cured My Insomnia
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359

These Gloves From Hestra Are the Upgrade You Need

When it comes to the colder months, what you wear makes the difference between a fun outdoor adventure or a cold nightmare. Your winter outfit should keep you warm and cozy — and while many focus on what coat or jacket to wear, one of the most overlooked yet key products in your set up are your gloves. Your hands are one of the first parts to get cold, which is your body’s natural response to keeping you warm. Hestra’s Vertical Cut CZone glove is the ideal combination of warmth, dexterity and protection — the trifecta for the perfect gloves you need this season. The glove is crafted with exceptional care and materials, with supple and durable goat leather and G-Loft insulation. If you aren’t familiar with G-Loft, it’s a material made from thin polyester fibers with high-performance insulating properties — it’ll even keep your hands warm when wet. But thankfully, you won’t have to worry much about your hands getting wet with the CZone waterproof breathable membrane. So instead of fighting through the pain of frozen fingers, now’s the perfect time to invest in some gloves to help you conquer the season.

Buy Now: $175

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October 28, 2020 / Comments Off on These Gloves From Hestra Are the Upgrade You Need
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278

This Pocket Knife Belongs In Your EDC

When it comes to your everyday carry, a premium pocket knife should be its foundation. You never know what your day may throw at you, and a versatile, sturdy knife makes daily life a whole lot easier. The James Brand is known for creating everyday carry knives, pens and tools that are exceptionally well designed. And, as one of its most popular models, The Carter expertly balances high-end components with an approachable price. The knife features an ambidextrous design (so you can use it in either your left or right hand interchangeably) and makes use of a slide-lock mechanism for secure lock-up and one-handed use. Crafted with premium materials, The Carter sports a Japanese VG-10 stainless steel blade and handle clad in either Micarta or G10. Its pocket clip thoughtfully positions the knife low in your pocket and comes with an included loop for a lanyard if that’s more your style. In other words, this knife is incredibly functional, but also looks and feels great in your hand.

Buy Now: $139

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October 27, 2020 / Comments Off on This Pocket Knife Belongs In Your EDC
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279

Get Backcountry’s Latest Jacket For All Your Layering Needs

The key to staying warm isn’t simply about donning the chunkiest jacket you own. It’s about mastering a tried-and-true strategy: layering. Your layering essentials should be versatile and warm, but don’t need to necessarily add bulk to your fit. Start off with a base layer to wick away sweat, wear a middle layer to retain body heat and then top it off with an outer layer to protect you from wind and rain. Now, those three steps might sound simple, but the truth is that layering is an art form. Pick the wrong mid-layer and you can feel super bulky, will barely be able to move and end up getting trapped in your own sweat. So to help conquer the season, Backcountry’s Hallet Insulated Hooded Jacket helps you with your layering needs. The jacket is a versatile mid-layer for active pursuits, providing synthetic insulation for warmth with low-bulk. Its exterior sports a water-repellent finish which helps you shed light dirt and moisture. What’s even better, is the face fabric and insulation are both recycled, making this an ideal addition to your closet this season.

Buy Now: $220

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October 26, 2020 / Comments Off on Get Backcountry’s Latest Jacket For All Your Layering Needs
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278

3 Innovative Tops That Prove Fleece Is Better Than Ever

In the roughly four decades since Polartec and Patagonia invented fleece, the fluffy fabric has become ubiquitous. Patagonia enlisted the materials manufacturer back then to create an alternative to wool and cotton, something that would be lightweight yet warm and stay that way even when it got wet — something to wear in the mountains. Outdoor gear designers still love fleece for these reasons, and though style brands have made the stuff ubiquitous, it’s outdoor gear designers that continue making it better.

Earth-Friendly Fabric: Houdini Mono Air

We’ve long been aware that the ocean is full of plastic trash, but the prevalence of microplastics, plastic particles smaller than five millimeters, is a somewhat more recent reality check. They can come from personal care products or broken down bits of larger plastic, but they also fray off synthetic clothing — think polyester, think fleece — when we wash it.

Houdini designed its Mono Air collection, which features a zip-up hoodie and a quarter-zip pullover, to address the issue. The fleece fabric that makes up each garment consists of little square pockets that hold fibers in a design that reduces microfiber shedding by 80 percent. It’s made from recycled polyester and is recyclable itself. It’s no surprise that Polartec is behind this new type of fleece fabric, which it calls Power Air Light.

Houdini Mono Air Houdi, $200
Houdini

Buy Now: $200

Fuzz with Room to Breathe: Patagonia R1 Air

Patagonia made its first fleece jackets from fluffy pile, but some of its most popular today are its lighter technical variants. Its R1 is beloved by adventurers for its versatility as a layer, but Patagonia isn’t one to rest on its laurels for too long. In early 2021 it will reveal a new version of the R1 called R1 Air.

Like its predecessor, the new fleece is lightweight and warm, even when it’s wet. It looks similar too, but for a zig-zag pattern that gives it a sweater-like appearance. But that pattern, along with the hollow-core yarn it’s made of, make the R1 Air more breathable and faster-drying. It’s also more fleecy, by which we mean that it’s softer. And that translates to a technical fleece that casual wearers will love too.

Patagonia R1 Air Crew, coming 2021; Spyder Boulder Fleece, $149
Courtesy

Waterproofing That Sticks: Spyder Fleeces With Empel

Typically, durable water repellent (DWR) treatments are applied to fabrics after they’re woven. They make water roll off in beads, but they can lose their potency with time and use (though they’re easy to reapply, DIY style). They’re not for everything either — stick them onto something soft, and it can get stiff.

This year, however, Spyder is professing a solution to both issues. Its new Alps and Boulder fleeces use Empel, a PFC-free waterproofing treatment applied to the fiber, not the fabric. Spyder claims the process creates a permanent molecular bond that won’t wear or wash out, and Empel’s elastic properties mean these fleeces are as soft and cozy as ever.

Buy Now: $149

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October 23, 2020 / Comments Off on 3 Innovative Tops That Prove Fleece Is Better Than Ever
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Rumpl NASA Blankets

Every young kid dreams of going to space. While that trip might not be possible for most of us, that doesn’t mean you can’t bring a little NASA home with Rumpl’s NASA Puffy Blanket collection.…



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October 23, 2020 / Comments Off on Rumpl NASA Blankets
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510

It’s All Downhill from Here in These Alpine Touring Boots

There are very few instances in which the expression, “it’s all downhill from here,” can be interpreted in a positive light — but skiing is certainly one of them. Drifting down a backcountry trail blanketed in pillow-soft powder is an experience in pure, unadulterated pleasure — unless your gear gives out at the top, in which case it really is all downhill from there, and not in the fun way. That’s where the Salomon Shift Pro 130 Alpine Touring Boot comes in handy. This ski boot is as versatile as the binding it was named after, as stable as a backcountry boot can be and as adaptable as an all-day, all-terrain boot should be. Find out what makes the Salomon Shift Pro 130 Alpine Touring Boot so unique below.

Backcountry

1.

Stiff Competition: At a true 130 flex, the Shift Pro 130 Alpine Touring Boot is the stiffest backcountry ski boot available from Salomon. Not only that, at just 1700g it’s one of the brand’s lightest options, making it a great option for both backcountry and resort terrain.

2.

Comfort At Last: The Shift Pro 130 Alpine Touring Boot is built with a 100mm last, ensuring it will fit most skiers while remaining highly customizable. A Custom Shell provides heat-molded comfort to boot, while My Custom Fit 3D Seamless Race liners offer the right amount of flex while in walk mode.

3.

Fast Feedback: Coreframe inserts in each boot improve realtime terrain feedback and boost power transmission, giving you more control over each carve. Meanwhile, the boots feature a secure, low-profile SureLock walk mode as well as a GripWalk sole that’s compatible with tech, AT and Shift MNC bindings.

Buy Now: $800

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October 23, 2020 / Comments Off on It’s All Downhill from Here in These Alpine Touring Boots
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285

The 12 Best Down Jackets of 2021

Last updated November 2020: New picks have been added to this buying guide. Prices and links have also been updated to reflect current availability.

The Best Down Jackets of 2021

Editor’s Choice: Mountain Hardwear Super/DS Stretchdown Hooded Jacket ($275)

Best Do-It-All Down Jacket: The North Face Summit L3 Down Hoodie ($375)

Best Ultralight Down Jacket: Montbell Plasma 1000 ($329)

Best Heavy Down Jacket: Jöttnar Fjörm ($449)

Best Down Jacket for Windy Places: Rab Infinity Light Down Jacket ($450)

Best Down Jacket for Cities: Norrona Lyngen ($599)

Most Durable Down Jacket: Black Diamond Vision Down Parka ($450)

Best Waterproof Down Jacket: Marmot WarmCube EVODry ($525)

Best Budget Down Jacket: REI 650 Down Jacket 2.0 ($100)

Best Down Pullover: Foehn Robson Down Hoody ($260)

Best Down Shirt Jacket: Foehn Robson Down Shacket ($225)

Most Innovative Down Jacket: The North Face Summit L3 50/50 Down Hoodie ($475)

Down is warm enough that ducks and geese can swim in freezing water and light enough that they can fly. It’s those two qualities that also make it arguably the best form of insulation yet devised for outdoor apparel. Down’s warmth, low weight and ability to compress make it the perfect material for activities like skiing, mountaineering and backpacking (it’s also great for just cruising around the city, too).

Advances in chemical treatments also mean that down jackets are more resistant to down’s mortal enemy, moisture, than ever before. From lifestyle wear to burly mountaineering layers, down jackets are lighter, tougher and more water resistant than ever. These 12 jackets are perfect for every activity, from walking your dog on frigid January mornings to conserving warmth and energy at Camp Four.

Mountain Hardwear Super/DS StretchDown Hooded Jacket

Editor’s Choice

We consider our list of the best down jackets of the year to be exhaustive, but throughout the year, we tested many more that you won’t see here. Down jackets have existed as functional outdoor protection for decades, and while the central concept that guides their design — ultralight warmth — hasn’t changed over the years, companies are still finding new ways to make them more functional than ever.

Mountain Hardwear is one of those companies. Instead of adhering to the iconic horizontal baffle design, it used a meandering pattern and a woven construction to disperse the down throughout the coat, thereby increasing durability and stretch while minimizing cold spots. The Super/DS StretchDown also uses a stretchier shell fabric that’s less shiny than traditional down coats, making it more approachable for those trying to avoid looking too “outdoorsy.” The sum of all these features is a down jacket with a vast range of applications. Mountain Hardwear may have built it for rock climbing, but the Super/DS StretchDown Hooded Jacket can function anywhere. Plus, with a price tag that’s less than $300, it’s also very affordable.

Weight: 17 ounces
Fill Material: Q.Shield responsibly-sourced down; 90% goose down, 10% goose feather
Fill Power: 800
Shell Material: Toray I-Tube (85% nylon, 15% elastane)
Waterproofing: DWR

Buy Now: $275

The North Face Summit L3 Down Hoodie

Best Do-It-All Down Jacket

Summit Series represents the most technical apparel and equipment that The North Face can cook up. These are the tents that are used as Himalayan base camps, the one-piece suits that look as suitable for outer space as for high peaks. It’s not just marketing chatter either; The North Face outfits its ambassador athletes in this stuff so that they’re better equipped to explore the places in the world we might only see in the pages of National Geographic, and when it sent its team to Antarctica this summer, it kitted them out in the L3 Down Hoodie.

In an expedition kit, the L3 is more of a mid-layer, which means it’s perfect for the rest of us who tend to explore less extreme latitudes. It’s the classic down jacket, made thoughtfully in every way: it’s lightweight with 800-fill down and a ripstop exterior, includes two hand pockets, an adjustable hem and an adjustable hood. It has a much wider range of motion than we expected and is treated with a DWR finish. The best thing though? The cuffs, which are soft and stretchy and more comfortable than what the rest of the field uses.

For a slightly more affordable down jacket with a similar set of features, check out Mountain Hardwear’s Phantom Hoody ($350). For a pricier upgrade, look at The North Face’s Summit L3 50/50 Down Hoodie ($475), which is also our pick for the most innovative down jacket (see below).

Weight: 13.4 ounces
Fill Material: responsibly-sourced goose down
Fill Power: 800
Shell Material: nylon
Waterproofing: DWR

Buy Now: $375

Looking to save on down? These promising options are currently discounted in select colors and sizes.

Mountain Hardwear Super D/S StretchDown Hooded Jacket

~~$275~~ $192 (30% off)

Mountain Hardwear

Arc’teryx Cerium LT Down Jacket

~~$349~~ $262 (25% off)

Arc’teryx

Backcountry Silver Fork 750 Down Jacket

~~$200~~ $80 (60% off)

Backcountry

Montbell Plasma 1000

Best Ultralight Down Jacket

If you aren’t familiar with Montbell, you should be. They are one of our favorite ultralight brands, making high-quality sleeping bags in addition to down jackets. That reputation held up through testing the Plasma 1000, and we weren’t disappointed. Simply picking up the jacket can be shocking — even the lightest lightweight rain jackets are heavier. Exaggerations aside, when you toss it up in the air it’ll float gently back down, like a feather.

The secret is high-loft 1000-fill down, which provides more warmth by weight than lower fill powers. It’s been hard to source in the past, but Montbell is now joined in producing a jacket that packs it — see Mountain Hardwear’s Ghost Whisperer UL ($375) and Eddie Bauer’s MicroTherm 100 ($399).

So despite its lean stature, the Plasma is toasty warm and packs down into a tiny stuff sack that fits in its pocket. We took the jacket on a shoulder season camping trip and were glad we did. It took up virtually zero space in a pack and was warm enough to extend a sunset hike into the dark.

Weight: 4.8 ounces
Fill Material: Power EX Down
Fill Power: 1000
Shell Material: 7-denier Ballistic Airlight rip-stop nylon
Waterproofing: DWR

Buy Now: $329

Jöttnar Fjörm

Best Heavy Down Jacket

Jöttnar’s tagline is “Conquer Giants,” and that’s exactly what this expedition-class down jacket was built to do. The Fjörm is big, puffy, and most of all, warm. It’s filled with just under ten ounces of DownTek’s responsibly-sourced, water-resistant, 850-fill goose down — that’s a lot of warmth, but the jacket is still incredibly lightweight and compressible (it packs down into what seems like an impossibly-small stuff sack). That much warmth may be overkill for shoulder season use, but the jacket still breathes well enough to be worn in temperatures just above freezing and is certainly suited to go far below that mark.

Despite the Fjörm’s size, it doesn’t feel bulky, as some expedition jackets tend to. It’s also incredibly comfortable, and Jöttnar improved the cuffs (small yet key points of jacket-on-skin abrasion) with the addition of a fleece lining. A drawcord waist, extra-large internal gear pocket, helmet-compatible hood, and two-way zipper give the Fjörm serious (and practical) mountain chops. But while this jacket may be built to equip high elevation adventures, its undeniable warmth and comfort make it suitable for wear in cities that see their fair share of frigid temperatures (like New York, for example).

Weight: 24.2 ounces
Fill Material: DownTek hydrophobic goose down, synthetic fill in cuffs and neck
Fill Power: 850
Shell Material: nylon
Waterproofing: DWR

Buy Now: $449

Rab Infinity Light Jacket

Best Down Jacket for Windy Places

For years, the presence of a Gore-Tex tag on a product has signified best-in-class waterproofing. With the recent launch of Gore-Tex Infinium, the label means more (Infinium tags are also white instead of black). In Rab’s Infinity Light Jacket, which is still one of the few down jackets to utilize Infinium, it means superior windproofing and breathability. That combo makes it ideal for getting out and active in super-cold temperatures. Rab made it with mountaineers in mind, but it’s perfect for mountain towns and frigid cities too.

Weight: 1 pound 2.5 ounces
Fill Material: Nikwax hydrophobic down
Fill Power: 800
Shell Material: nylong with Gore-Tex Infinium and Gore-Tex Windstopper
Waterproofing: Gore-Tex Infinium (water-repellant)

Buy Now: $450

Norrona Lyngen

Best Down Jacket for Cities

Not everybody is into the look of technical winter gear. The materials that make jackets warm and waterproof are often shiny or brightly-colored and covered in pockets and zippers, making wearers look like they’re headed to the mountains when they might just be commuting to the office. Gore-Tex launched its Infinium with remedying this stigma in mind. With Infinium, lifestyle drives performance, and technical fabrics might not look like technical fabrics, even though they’re still highly weather-proof and breathable.

It’s true for Norrona’s Lyngen down jacket. Its outer shell is water-repellant and fully windproof, but unlike many of the other options here, it doesn’t have the characteristic sheen of ripstop nylon. Instead, it looks and feels more like a thin layer of leather. But style isn’t the Lyngen’s only play; that same material is incredibly breathable (Norrona built this jacket with ski touring in mind) and it’s filled with a hearty load of 850-fill, responsibly-sourced down. It’s very warm as a result — warm enough to wear as an outer layer in Northern Hemisphere towns during the dead of winter.

Weight: 17 ounces
Fill Material: responsibly-sourced down
Fill Power: 850
Shell Material: Gore-Tex Infinium
Waterproofing: Gore-Tex Infinium (water-repellant)

Buy Now: $599

Black Diamond Vision Parka

Most Durable Down Jacket

Black Diamond emphasizes two things in the Vision: warmth and durability. The former is a given, but down jackets, particularly the lightweight, packable ones, are known for outer shells that are far from tear-resistant. So Black Diamond worked with a company in Japan to create a liquid crystal polymer coating that makes the Vision significantly more durable.

The coating works wonders for rock climbers scraping up against a granite, but it also comes in handy when you accidentally scuff up against a wall in town or intentionally bash your way through brush on a hike. Oh, and the Vision is warm. Really warm. It’s Black Diamond’s warmest down jacket to date.

Weight: 1 pound 4.5 ounces
Fill Material: goose down
Fill Power: 800
Shell Material: 20D nylon liquid crystal polymer ripstop
Waterproofing: DWR

Buy Now: $450

Marmot WarmCube EVODry Parka

Marmot

Best Waterproof Down Jacket

In 2019, Marmot achieved furnace-level down jacket warmth in an unconventional way: In addition to employing the horizontal baffles standard to down jackets, it lined the interior with rectangular pods of 800-fill down. The technology is called WarmCube, and it was previously only available in a jacket meant for arctic-type expeditions called the West Rib Parka. (The West Rib earned a spot on a previous iteration of this list.)

Marmot has since brought the tech to new designs, like the WarmCube EVODry Parka. This jacket still has those down-filled pods inside, and they’re separated by channels that hold warm air, just as they were in the West Rib. But the exterior is a two-layer waterproof shell that can handle snow and rain alike. The baffle-free surface makes this down jacket sneakily stylish and perfect for residents of cities that see their fair share of winter storms.

Weight: 2 pounds 1 ounce
Fill Material: goose down, synthetic insulation
Fill Power: 800
Shell Material: EvoDry 2L 100% Recycled Nylon Plain weave 3.9 oz/ yd
Waterproofing: Marmot MemBrain Eco 2-layer, DWR (10k/10k rating)

Buy Now: $525

REI 650 Down Jacket 2.0

Best Budget Down Jacket

The middle ground between price and quality is a small plot, but REI figured out how to land there with its 650 Down Jacket 2.0. For only $100, this jacket is lightweight and provides plenty of warmth for use as a mid-layer on colder days and an outer layer when it’s slightly more temperate. The jacket is relatively unadorned – it has two zippered hand pockets and two interior drop-in pockets, and that’s it for features. For even more warmth and a more technical set of features, upgrade to REI’s Magma 850 Down Hoodie 2.0, which is an equally good deal at $219.

Weight: 11 ounces
Fill Material: power down
Fill Power: 650
Shell Material: recycled nylon taffeta
Waterproofing: DWR

Buy Now: $100

Foehn Robson Down Hoody

Best Down Pullover

Familiarize yourself with Foehn. The small brand, which draws its name from the type of warm wind that can develop on the leeward side of mountain ranges, produces a small collection of apparel with rock climbing in mind while paying close attention to style — everything that the brand makes is suitable for city life too. Foehn’s most well-known piece is the Brise Pant, which raised more than $70,000 on Kickstarter, but its down jacket is equally-worthy of high praise.

Unlike many of the other jackets on this list, the Robson is a pullover. It doesn’t use the common quarter-zip construction either, favoring a zipper on the side to accommodate entry and exit instead. This keeps the jackets face — a matte, Japanese-made stretch fabric treated with DWR — plain, like a sweatshirt. It makes for a stylish profile that’s sure to draw compliments (and questions about who makes it). But the Robson isn’t all looks; it’s plenty warm with a substantial helping of 800-fill down and includes laser-cut underarm vents that aid breathability during high-output activities.

Fill Material: responsibly-sourced down
Fill Power: 800
Shell Material: Nylon
Waterproofing: DWR

Buy Now: $260

Foehn Robson Down Shacket

Foehn

Best Down Shirt Jacket

Shackets — a now-established subcategory cross between a button-up and an outer layer — come in many forms. Many are simply heavy shirts, but Foehn’s Robson Down Shacket is a mash-up in the truest sense. It contains the best features of the brand’s equally-awesome Robson Down Hoodie, including a stretchy, Japanese fabric exterior and premium 800-fill down innards. But it’s definitely a shacket, and not only because it has a snap-button front and a collar but also because it provides just the right amount of mid-level warmth to stay comfortable in those what-do-I-wear temperatures that are 15 degrees on either side of freezing.

Weight: 12 ounces
Fill Material: Responsible Down Standard (RDS) down
Fill Power: 800
Shell Material: nylon
Waterproofing: DWR

Buy Now: $225

The North Face Summit L3 50/50 Down Hoodie

The North Face

Most Innovative Down Jacket

Zipped up, The North Face’s L3 50/50 Down Hoodie doesn’t look all that different from the other down jacket from the brand to make this list, the L3 Summit Down Hoody (even the names are confusingly similar). That all changes when you open it up.

Inside, the jacket’s baffles become obvious, accentuated even. That’s because The North Face developed a new construction method where nearly all of those baffles have room to breathe between them. The idea is simple, but it works: by leaving these spaces, heat and moisture can escape the jacket more efficiently, creating a versatile, heat-regulating layer. Consider this an upgrade pick to our best do-it-all down jacket, and one to think about buying if you spend significant time in the mountains during winter.

Weight: 16 ounces
Fill Material: water-repellent, Responsible Down Standard (RDS) ProDown
Fill Power: 800
Shell Material: nylon
Waterproofing: DWR

Buy Now: $475

What to Know Before You Buy a Down Jacket

An Intro to Down

Down is found in layers underneath the rougher outer feathers of ducks and geese — it’s what keeps them warm while floating around all winter, so, naturally, it will keep us warm too. Despite that, moisture is the undoing of down, causing it to clump up and lose its heat-retaining qualities. It also should be noted that while large-scale efforts have been made by big brands such as Patagonia and The North Face, not all down is ethically sourced, and animal cruelty does happen.

Fill Powers Decoded

Down fill powers are numerical ratings that usually range anywhere from about 450 to 900. This number comes from a standardized test in which an ounce of down is compressed in a graduated cylinder and then measured for volume in cubic inches; that volume is the fill rating. An ounce of 900-fill down occupies more space (and thus traps more air and provides more warmth) than an ounce of 600-fill down. The two samples weigh the same, but one takes up more space and can trap more air, which means more warmth.

What this boils down to is the idea that a higher fill power means more warmth for less weight. It’s important to note that two jackets or sleeping bags may have different fill ratings while providing the same amount of warmth — the difference is that whichever has the higher rating will pack down to a smaller size because less material is needed to get the same amount of warmth. High down fill powers tend to come with a heftier price tag, so consider what you’re going to use a product for when getting into those loftier feathers.

How To Wash Your Down Jacket

Most people take their down jacket for granted, expecting it to perform the same year after year without any maintenance. Over time though, down becomes compacted and dirty, which inhibits its loft and makes the jacket less warm. To clean your jacket, revitalize its warmth and get it ready for all your adventures, follow our simple guide.

Put your jacket into a washing machine without an agitator. It is easiest to do this at a laundromat, but if your home washer is of the large, front-loading variety, feel free to toss it in there. If you use a washing machine with an agitator, you run the risk of tearing open your jacket or clumping the down in large balls inside — so avoid agitators at all costs.

Wash with Nikwax Down Wash. Though there are other good down washes out there (namely Granger’s), we recommend using Nikwax’s Down Wash. Add the Down Wash directly into the washing machine, using about three ounces. Follow the directions on the care label of your jacket for specific temperature and cycle settings.

Switch your jacket to the dryer and add tennis balls. Move your jacket over to the dryer, but before you turn it on, add in a package of new tennis balls. As the drier spins, the tennis balls will bounce around inside the drum, breaking up any clumps of down and helping dry the jacket completely. This also helps to restore the loft in the down feathers. As for dryer settings, low heat for a long period of time is the name of the game.

Pause the dryer and manually break up any clumps. Every twenty minutes or so, pause the dryer and manually work out larger clumps of down. While the tennis balls work well to help break up clumps, you’ll need to put some extra effort in to break them up completely.

Tumble dry until the jacket is completely dry. Dry the jacket until it is dry the entire way through. Not only does moist down function terribly as an insulator, it’s also prone to mold, which will lead to a stinky jacket.

October 21, 2020 / Comments Off on The 12 Best Down Jackets of 2021
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