Gear review: Heading into winter

With a slow start to wintery weather, this gear shoulders the season incredibly well.

1. Sweet Protection Trooper 2Vi Mips Helmet, Boondock RIG Reflect Goggles, and Shinobi RIG Reflect Sportsglasses, 25 year-edition

Get these while you can because Sweet Protection’s limited editions always sell out, typically very quickly. In celebration of the company’s 25-year anniversary, these graphics were designed with the younger generation in mind so they could stand out from their parents. But let’s face it: People over a certain age want to look cool, too. And beyond the cool, awesome, sweet, sick, dope, or drip graphics (terminology depends upon your age, of course). It’s the technology that makes this gear extraordinary — just like the company’s origins, which began with renegade skateboarders in Norway, where the sport was illegal at the time. They built their own boards by smuggling in parts from Sweden. Once Norway lifted the ban in 1989, they still felt limited by existing gear, so they began making their own, including helmets, and officially launched Sweet Protection in 2000.

At 1.5 pounds, the lightweight Trooper 2Vi Mips Helmet features 2Vi technology, which basically means it provides superior protection at both low and maximum speeds without bulk and weight. Made of a thermoplastic-laminated carbon fiber shell, a two-layer Multidirectional Impact Protection System, and a multi-density shock-absorbing liner. It reduces the risk of concussion. The snap-in lining is not only comfortable but also washable, and the turn-dial allows for a safe and snug fit. Its magnetic buckle is incredibly easy to use, and adjustable ventilation makes it perfect all season long. $365, sweetprotection.com.

I thoroughly enjoy looking at the world through rose-colored glasses, and these lenses make already majestic mountains even more magical. The Boondock semi-frameless goggles integrate with the helmet seamlessly for a stylish and functional fit, even for small and medium-sized faces; some goggles overtake the bridge of my nose since I have a smaller face, but these perch perfectly. They offer wide peripheral vision, which is key when skiing crowded runs during the early season and holidays. Of course, venting and anti-fog technology are essential, especially on powder days, and these deliver in spades. They also have a special coating, which prevents water and grime from adhering. Additionally, Sweet Protection’s RIG (retina illumination grading) lens technology reduces eye fatigue and provides superior contrast by blocking retina-stimulating blue light while still affording 100% UV protection. The same can all be said about the lightweight sports glasses, built to improve clarity, even at high mountain or road biking speeds. Both eyewear systems are extremely impact-resistant, which is important when it comes to face protection, and the glasses’ grippy temples and nose mold mean extra comfort and no sliding, even when sweaty. Goggles, $195; sports glasses, $200, sweetprotection.com.

2. Sweet Protection Bushwacker 2Vi Mips Helmet, Hunter II Park Long Sleeve, Hunter Hooded Wind Jacket, Hunter II Pants

Like the ski helmet, the Bushwacker (bike) helmet provides both Mips and 2Vi technology; Mips is the lightest way to reduce rotational energies, or impact to the head, while 2Vi increases performance and comfort within the Mips system. This helmet is light (under a pound) and allows for great airflow and ample coverage around the back and the sides, whereas a lot of bike helmets don’t have such coverage; this was developed for increased protection for both low- and high-impact crashes. And it’s comfortable around the head and ears. Its new, integrated fit system allows for height adjustment on the fly, and the visor is adjustable, so goggles can hang out on top when not in use. Like the ski helmet, the magnetic buckle is a cinch to open and close. This also comes in the 25th-anniversary graphics. $250, sweetprotection.com.

With this warmer weather, bike season has still been up and running. I love the women’s long-sleeve jersey, both for riding and for casual wear. Its four-way stretch fabric with flatlock seams makes it ultra-comfortable and easy to move in, while also being quick-drying and breathable, with strategically placed mesh panels, such as at the neck, armpits, and forearms. And it’s made of 90% recycled polyester. Meanwhile, the ultra-lightweight (4.6 ounce) unisex wind jacket, made with two-way stretch fabric, includes a hood with elastic, elasticity at the wrists, and two zipped pockets. The packable, hip-length windbreaker also repels water and dirt but not necessarily pet hair, is breathable, and dries quickly. Long-sleeve jersey, $60; jacket, $120, sweetprotection.com.

These four-way stretch bike pants not only offer extreme mobility, with articulated knee construction to accommodate knee guards and a well-vented crotch gusset, but they also flatter the backside. An adjustable waist with buckle and strap ensures the pants stay put, and the pockets even accommodate a phone. It includes a PFC-free water-repellant treatment over the polyester. $130, sweetprotection.com.

3. Mission Workshop Mission Saddle Bag

With its full-Velcro wrap-around strap, this small bag attaches to any bike and is compatible with all dropper posts and most bike frames. The waterproof bag holds plenty of tools, keys, snacks, and smaller phones, but it doesn’t quite zip above larger ones like the iPhone 13 Pro (6.1-inch screen size) if it has a case like an Otterbox. But for tools and such, it’s great, particularly because you can trust it to stay put. Plus it’s quick-drying and waterproof, including the Aquaguard zipper. Its four internal elastic pockets allow you to organize tools and other essentials, and it’s made in the USA. $68, missionworkshop.com.

4. True Classic Men’s Premium Pima Crew Neck 

Traditional T-shirts can stretch out of shape after multiple washings and don’t necessarily provide the most flattering fit to begin with. But True Classic is different. It’s extremely durable, USA-grown Pima cotton has a silkier feel than other cotton tees, even though it is 100% cotton; in fact, it gets softer over time. It’s breathable and cool, and its contemporary, tailored fit flatters men, making them look just a little more dressed up than a typical tee, particularly due to the fit and a slimmer neckband that lies smoothly against the skin. Its tight stitching is designed to provide a longer lifespan than other tees; overall, it’s cool, light, and soft, making it my husband’s preference. It comes in 15 colors, including clearance colors; $39.99, trueclassictees.

5. Helly Hansen Odin Pro Shield Jacket

This is one of those all-season essentials; I wore it on cool summer nights, as a “top” this fall, and underneath my ski jacket during early-season skiing. While I always prefer quality and function, I’m a sucker for how clothing initially looks. So, first, I love the smoked purple color in this new, updated jacket, which focuses on lighter weight (under a pound), wind protection, and breathability for cool to somewhat cold temperatures. Second, I like the texture and how it fits — loose but flattering. This hybrid jacket is technically designed with a durable softshell to protect from weather. It gets Helly Hansen’s six out of six rating for windproofing, breathability, and durability. The RECCO system makes it great for backcountry skiing, along with its water repellency and adjustable, attached, helmet-compatible hood and bottom hem. Four-way stretch fabric and articulated elbows increase mobility, and two zippered and internal mesh chest pockets hold essentials. Comes in men’s and women’s, $245, hellyhansen.com.

6. Smartwool Intraknit Merino Thermal Legging and Intraknit Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew

With a variety of colors to choose from, this 53% merino wool (45% polyester) base layer crew features seamlessly knit mesh ventilation and a design that results in a nice, slim fit, which conforms to body contours. The intraknit technology within both the top and bottom delivers warmth, breathability, and comfortable freedom of movement. The slim fit of the 36% merino wool leggings hugs the legs and butt nicely, making them appealing to wear as regular leggings. My skin is somewhat sensitive, so the high-rise, ribbed waistband is a bit itchy and uncomfortable along my belly and waist, but the crew was fine. Crew, $130; leggings, $150, smartwool.com.

7. Buff Lightweight Merino Wool Multifunctional Headwear and Merino Midweight Multifunctional Neckwear

Neck gaiters have evolved into multi-function wear, for use ranging from traditional neck gaiters (which I most often use them for) to head covers and headbands, which I sometimes use them for, especially if I have hat-head during lunch. I love that these are made of natural materials, specifically 100% merino wool. The fibers inherently regulate temperatures, are odor resistant, and don’t bother my neck or chin in terms of itching. Plus, they’re ethically sourced. The lightweight is good for warm, early season, and spring days — or even as sun protection during summer activities; the midweight provides more warmth while still allowing me to easily breathe when I pull it above my nose on colder days. Lightweight, $32; midweight, $37, buff.com