Gear review: Winter Crossovers

Based on last week’s storm, it looks like Mother Nature hasn’t completely left us high and dry. Here’s a handful of gear that crosses over between seasons — and the warmer and cooler weather we’ve been experiencing. 

Helly Hansen Verglas Hooded Down Jacket 2.0

Available in six great colors, I have worn this lightweight and versatile jacket as a mid-layer and a stand-alone. It works as an outer layer during light snowfall with its hydrophobic, DWR-treated, down, which makes it more resilient. The 85% duck down (and 15% duck feather) is toasty, along with its elastic hood and high neck. Its recycled shell polyamide and lining earns a four out of six in windproof and breathability. It’s also perfect for hiking, camping, or a cool summer night, as it packs into the zippered hand pocket. $222, hellyhansen.com.

tasc NOLA Long Sleeve T-Shirt, Studio Fleece Hoodie, and ALLways Full Length Legging

First of all, tasc’s clothing is so soft and feel-goodie, it makes me just want to slather myself in it. Its specialized process creates the most natural feel of the organic cotton and bamboo viscose in these products, while maintaining durability. And, 100% of its sewing facility power stems from wind and solar. The lightweight Tee’s four-way stretch fits comfortably and athletically, just as the leggings do, cradling the body in softness (I do find that the leggings grab a bit in the groin and tush, but they’re really comfortable in the legs and high-rise waist and create a nice slimming effect). They provide UPF 50+ sun protection, along with excellent breathability and moisture wicking. The new, short Studio Fleece Hoodie is another ultra-snuggly piece. With its drop shoulder and oversized sleeves, it puts me in a lounging around kind of mood. It’s warm, yet breathable, and its four-way stretch literally is cloudlike soft. T-shirt, $58; hoodie, $98; legging, $84; tascperformance.com.

Royal Robbins Women’s Hemp Hoodie

Yet another hoodie made from natural fibers — this time 55% hemp and 45% cotton — this pairs great with tasc’s leggings if you want longer coverage than tasc’s hoodie. It’s great to wear after skiing or as a camping essential. The soft blend is comfortable, while also being durable, breathable, and odor-resistant. And, I love its somewhat longer sleeves, which add some warmth to my hands. Comes in seven beautiful colors — three of which are new. $120, royalrobbins.com.

Kari Traa Rose High Waist Base Layer Pants and Katie Half Zip — LILY

These are some of the most comfortable base layer pants I have, due to their high waist that’s not ribbed, so it doesn’t cut in or leave vertical lines on my skin. I don’t even feel them when I’m wearing them, which is a true test of a base layer in my mind. And, they come in an incredibly vast 19 colorways. Oh, and did I mention they’re really warm and made of 100% non-itchy merino wool (I find some merino itchy; these aren’t)? The top, made from 7% wool (the rest is polyester and elastane) is adorable with its little skiers, snowflakes, and other graphics. It looks cute alone or under a vest and acts an excellent base layer, with its slim fit and high-zipped collar. Ethically made and constructed from 50% or more recycled materials, this is another go-to for warmth. Bottoms, $130; top, $90, karitraa.com.

MYKOS Bailee Women’s Zip-Up Wedge Boot 

These super-cute boots keep my feet warm, with their premium outer suede, faux fur lining, and faux rabbit collar. They look great with jeans or leggings, and are easy to get on and off with the side zipper. Plus, their HydroGaard water and stain resistant technology make them exactly that. The come in whole sizes only; a size 7 fits my typically size 7 ½ foot, so I recommend sizing down. These are best on non-icy surfaces, as the Rubberlon wedge outsole includes ridges but isn’t as grippy as other winter boots. $99.99, mykos.com.

Trot Pets Snack Tray

This fits into my crossovers review because my parents live in Denver for the winter, and my dog tends to inhale her food when their pup is around. This slows her down, with its small, deeper squares and nubby quarters. Made of heavy-duty, food-grade silicone, it’s both dishwasher and freezer safe. My strong little terrier mix actually thought it like her Kong toys, so after she ate, she somehow lifted this hefty tray in her mouth and jumped on the sofa. But she quickly learned it’s a plate, not a chew toy, and she loves eating from it. Comes in 10 colors. $29.99, trotpets.com.