Outfitted: Hoodie season
Courtesy photo
Whether you’re layering up for a fall hike, getting prepared for your winter uphill game, sitting on the couch watching football, or taking advantage of the off-season to organize your gear closet, it’s time to bust out a classic favorite of old: the hoodie. Even if I’m not using that hood for its intended purpose, something about having that extra coziness bunched up around the back of my neck makes me feel warm and secure. Listed below is a bit of an ode to the hoodie with some new favorites I’m reaching for this fall and winter.
Ortovox Swisswool Piz Badus Jacket
This little powerhouse midlayer is going to be a go-to for winter activity, and it’s a looker, to boot. The outer layer is made of a quilted, elastic, breathable, and wind-resistant material, and the insulation is a highly-functional, lightweight, ethical Swisswool, which will still insulate even if you sweat through it. Along with elastic cuffs, elastic waist, and two front pockets, there are side panels of stretchy marino fleece to help with unrestricted movement. This hoodie is great on its own or as an easy lightweight layer to throw into your pack for chilly summits and ski descents. Available in a variety of women’s and men’s sizes and colors.
$350, Ortovox.com
Krimson Klover Chalet Cashmere Blend Hoodie
This luxe hoodie is sure to step up your après and lounging game. Natural fibers of cashmere and merino wool are blended to create this super-soft piece that you won’t want to take off. I like how the addition of merino makes it a little more durable with some extra breathability and temperature regulation. Beautiful detailing on the sleeves give it that old ski chalet feel. It’s a little salty in price, but it’ll be a staple all winter long. Matching joggers are also available. If you’re thinking of this as a gift, I would act fast. A lot of the colors and sizes are already sold out.
$259, Krimsonklover.com
Carhartt Washed Duck Sherpa Lined Jacket
Fall being a time of transition, this work horse of a hoodie is my go-to for around-the-house activity. Whether I’m raking leaves, putting away the paddleboard, or swapping out my summer bins for winter ones in my storage unit, this jacket has that classic Carhartt durability to hold up to messy chores with its signature cotton duck fabric. With the sherpa lining in the hood and core, it keeps me warm, and the quilted nylon sleeve lining makes it easy to take on and off. It has pleats across the back and in the elbows for extra movement and a variety of pockets inside and out. It’s become a work-wear staple — my dad is probably wearing his version of this hoodie in his barn in Ohio as we speak. Available in women’s and men’s colors and extensive sizes.
$130, Carhartt.com
Mountain Hardwear Dusk Creek Hooded Shirt
This everyday flannel has added a cozy hood to step it up a notch. A classic button-down style adds two chest pockets and button-closure sleeves along with its drawstring hood. It’s great for camping, lounging, or even layering. Made of 100% lightweight cotton, the flannel fabric is brushed for an extra soft feel. With four different plaid colorways available, this would make a great gift for any outdoorsy guy.
$110, Mountainhardwear.com
Vuori Halo Essential Hoodie
This hoodie in a classic pullover style with a bit of a cropped length is made with Vuori’s DreamKnit fabric and is bound to be a favorite. There aren’t any bells and whistles here – just comfortable and quality construction. I own several pieces in the DreamKnit collection, and they are my most-worn wardrobe staple. I’m even wearing one of them as I write this column. This particular style is new for me, but I can say that I’ve had some of my other Halo and DreamKnit pieces for well over two years, and they still hold up like new after wearing them on a weekly basis. The prices may seem a bit steep for staples, but I find time and again they are worth every penny.
$96, Vuoriclothing.com
Kuiu StrongFleece 275 Full Zip Hoodie
Acclaimed hunting apparel favorite, Kuiu recently came out with this new hoodie to add to its StrongFleece line. It’s a mid- to outer-layer piece that seems to offer a bit more breathability and durability to its construction. Made for various conditions typically found when hunting, like bush whacking and light rain, the hoodie doesn’t sacrifice breathability with its performance. But don’t relegate this hoodie to just hunting; it’s a versatile layer that will come in handy for a variety of activities. With DWR water-resistant treatment, it’ll keep out light rain and even has odor control technology in the fabric. It’s available in two classy, solid colors or three different camo options for the avid hunter.
$189, Kuiu.com
Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer, and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.
