Gear review: Transitioning into Spring

As the daylight lengthens, I’m using this gear to wrap up the ski season and stroll into warmer weather.

Royal Robbins Headlands Hemp Hoodie

Any time I can find clothing made completely of natural fibers, I go for it. This soft, breathable, odor-resistant hemp (55%) and cotton (45%) blend combines durability with style: I love its scalloped hem, the wrapround cowl neck that lays nicely, and sleeves that naturally roll just the right amount at the wrists. Slightly longer by half an inch in the back (27.5 inches), it looks great with both tights or jeans. While I’ve already gotten plenty of use from it in the mountains, I chose the undyed version for my beach trips, when I need a casual layer in air-conditioned restaurants or during cooler evenings.

Comes in five colors, $120, royalrobbins.com

Danner Boulder Ridge Pants

Everyday wear meets functional hiking gear with these high-waisted pants. I particularly appreciate the stretch fabric, articulated knees, and gusset crotch, which make for easy bending and movement on the trail. And, the softness can’t be beat. I’m often between a small and medium, so I ordered a medium and cinched down the adjustable waist for the perfect fit. A zippered cargo pocket holds energy bars and a phone; the pants also include a dedicated knife pocket, a D-ring utility loop, and two hand pockets that don’t pooch out.

Comes in black, olive, and dark earth, $150, danner.com

Vuarnet Legend 06 Originals

These truly are legends, worn by Alain Delon in “La Piscine” and later by Daniel Craig in the 007 “No Time to Die.” They’re designed to fit medium- to larger-sized faces, so, while they’re a tad big for my more narrow, feminine features, they look stunning on my husband (Ladies, it’s not too early to start thinking about Father’s Day gifts). Vuarnet’s durable nylon frame includes shape memory for comfort. Yet, it’s the company’s mineral lenses, created specifically for snow and mountain lovers, that really stand out, with crystal-clear vision, including depth and distance perception, contrast in low visibility, reduced glare, and an anti-reflective backside. And, they’re still made in France. The Legends offer four frame colors and three different lenses for various preferences and conditions.

$275, us.vuarnet.com

Merry People Bobbi Ankle Boot

Snow, slush, rain, or mud: These 100% waterproof (and completely vegan) boots were made for our mountain weather. The sole’s tread prevents slips by maximizing traction, while enhanced arch support makes the boots stable and comfortable to walk in. I usually wear a 7 ½, but since these only come in whole sizes, I sized down to a 7, and they fit nicely. Top tabs make them easy to slide on and off, and neoprene lining keeps feet warm and cozy. With 15 color selections, ranging from subtle to the likes of fuchsia pink and sunflower yellow, there’s something for every man and woman — I personally like the denim blue to wear with jeans.

$139.95, us.merrypeople.com

Lé Bent Targeted Cushion and Light Cushion Snow Socks

During a winter of hard-charging skiing, it’s nice to add a little softness into the mix. Lé Bent’s socks are made from merino wool and rayon from bamboo for extra softness, as well as breathability and odor control. They actually kept my feet warm without boot heaters on a 28-degree day, which speaks volumes, given how I’m always freezing (granted, my toes felt a little chilled, but they feel that way with boot heaters). Memory stretch molds to right- and left-foot shapes, keeping then snug and non-bunching around the seamless toe and heel; elastic instep support does the same. I like the shin cushion on the targeted cushion models, but you can also get them with zero-, light-, or full-cushion.

Comes in various men’s and women’s colors, $30-$34 depending on cushion (visit link for current sale prices), lebent.com

Kimberly Nicoletti is a freelance writer, editor, and writing coach. She can be reached at kim@kimberlynicoletti.com.