We get to try out a lot of gear around here, but the stuff we truly love can be rare and hard to come by. These are the goods, from boots to barbecue sauce, that we abused the heck out of this winter. We like this stuff a lot, and there's a good chance you might too.
Skis and boots will only get you so far in the backcountry. Don’t forget all the other stuff you’ll need to get you in and out safely.
This is our stuff. We own it, use it, and believe in it too. We think you'll like it, too. Check out this video for interviews with the Skiing staff about why they picked mustard, boxed wine, and a flask as part of the Best Gear of the year.
Tripp Frey and twin brothers John and Chris Pew grew up skiing and snowboarding together on garbage-mound mountains just outside of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Though life often took them in separate directions, they’ve recently found each other back in the snow.
![This jacket is essentially your outer layer and midlayer in one. Inside, 800-fill goose down stitched into narrow baffles keep weight and bulk down. Outside, a two-layer 12-denier shell with DWR sheds moisture. The chest-to-hip pockets double as core vents.Weight: women’s, 16.3 oz.; men’s, 19.5 oz.[$299; eddiebauer.com/firstascent]](https://www.skimag.com/.image/ar_16:9%2Cc_fill%2Ccs_srgb%2Cfl_progressive%2Cg_faces:center%2Cq_auto:good%2Cw_620/MTUwMTIyNzA2NDc0NzcxODky/eddie-bauer-first-ascent-bc-microtherm.jpg)
When it comes to jackets, comfort comes down to two words: waterproof and breathable. These are our favorites from softshells to storm day puffies.
