The Head-To-Toe Winter Wish-list

Christmas day is fast approaching, and many of us are still scrambling for gift ideas to give our loved ones. If you don't know what to get someone who spends an excessive amount of time outdoors, or who would like to spend more time outside but lack the proper tools to do so, here is a head-to-toe breakdown of the best gear for the colder months.

Shell: Outdoor Research Axiom™ Jacket

• Top-of-the-line storm shell
• 2012 winner of Outside Magazine's "Gear of the Year" award
• GORE-TEX® Active Technology
• Highly breathable
• Perfect for high-aerobic winter activities
• Available in 4 color combinations
• Available only in men's sizes
• Ladies, check out the OR StormBound Jacket!

Mid-Layer: Arc'teryx Atom LT Jacket and Hoodie

• Lightweight mid-layer with Coreloft™ 60 insulation
• Wind resistant and DWR (Durable Water Resistant) outer membrane
• Side panels feature Polartec® Power Stretch® with Hardface™ technology, allowing unrestricted movement and added breathability
• Packs down into it's sleeve
• Available with, or without, a hood in both men's and women's sizes

Base-Layer Smartwool NTS Mid 250 Base Layers

• Temperature regulating, breathable, and odor controlling merino fabric
• Can be used as a single layer for colder, high-activity, conditions; or as a base layer in the coldest of environments
• Chaf-free construction
• Available in both men's and women's: half-zip, quarter-zip, hoodie, turtleneck, crew, and bottoms
• Layers with thumbholes available for both men and women

Pants: Marmot Minimalist Pant

• GORE-TEX® Paclite® technology is completely waterproof, lightweight and highly compressible
• Available for both men and women

Socks: Smartwool PhD Socks 

• Uses ReliaWool™ Technology and the 4-Degree Fit System to guarantee continuous comfort and durability
• Wicks moisture, will not cause blisters (as long as you wear the correct size) and is odor resistant
• Ideal for cross-country skiers, boarders, winter backpackers and anyone looking to keep their feet comfortable and dry during cold-weather activities

Boots: Merrell Mattertal GORE-TEX®

• GORE-TEX® lined allowing feet to stay dry and comfortable in the harshest of environments
• Vibram® OutBound Sole / CT Rubber for guaranteed grip
• Offer's heel stability and a Grade 6 hiking sole for foot and ankle protection with every step
• Available for both men and women

Headwear: Marmot Windstopper Beanie

• GORE® WindStopper® fabric guarantees to keep your dome warm
• Polartec® panel assures durability

Gloves: Marmot Glide Softshell Glove

• Weather-resistant gloves that provide mobility and warmth for your hands
• Available for both men and women

Parting Words:

These products are guaranteed to make you a "happy camper," or skier, or whatever activities you use them in. With the proper care and usage, they will last you for many years to come, and some even for life with lifetime warranties. 

A big thank you to Arc'teryx, Coreloft®, GORE-TEX®, Marmot, Merrell, Outdoor Research, Polartec®, SmartWool and Vibram® for their amazing products, pictures and advanced technologies.