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The best breathable, stretchy, and lightweight jackets, base layers, gloves, and accessories for your spring ski tours.Spring skiing combines two of our favorite things: Soft snow and sunshine. The best of winter and summer, combined into one joyful season! 

You’re probably aware how damaging the sun’s rays can be—that’s why sunscreen is on every packing list for every outdoor trip ever. It’s why we often wear sun hats and sun shirts outdoors. But did you know that different materials—even different colored fabrics—offer different amounts of protection from the sun’s damaging rays? Here we explain what all those sun-related acronyms mean—UV, UPF, SPF—and how to choose the best protection.

When winter hits hard, old-school layering just doesn’t cut it—bulky, uncomfortable, and far from efficient. Modern fleece-lined pants are a better answer, offering built-in warmth without sacrificing movement. Whether braving a snowy trail or heading out for a cold evening walk, these pants keep you warm and comfortable. Here’s what makes fleece-lined pants outperform old layers, and how to find the right pair for your cold-weather adventures.

Washington is an outdoor playground—national parks, wild beaches, endless trails, ski resorts, rivers, and forests stacked into one state. You could spend a lifetime here and still not scratch the surface. Whether it’s your final road trip stop or just a waypoint on the way to B.C., Alaska, or down the Pacific Coast, Washington delivers year-round adventure.

Starting a new sport, can bring a mix of excitement and a bit of intimidation all at the same time.

In 2024, Ali Becker and Mathieu Leblanc set out to tackle the freshly released Great Northern Bikepacking Route, now the world’s longest mapped off-road bikepacking route.

Sun protection is a year-round endeavor. Ideally, you should wear sunscreen and other forms of sun protection when you spend time outdoors, no matter the time of year.

Fleece is one of the most versatile pieces in a hiker’s layering system. It’s lightweight, breathable, and provides reliable insulation without weighing you down.

This past summer, a group of young women ages 17 to 22 embarked on a journey few ever dream of, a 40-day canoe expedition along Canada’s Coppermine River, beyond the Arctic Circle.

The down fill rating number is a measurement of down quality, meaning the cubic inches of loft one ounce of the specific down produces. A higher rating means less down fill is required to capture the same amount of heat.

One of the best ways to celebrate National Dog Day is by hitting the trails with your pup. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, your dog will love exploring new sights and scents. Gear up and have fun celebrating your favorite furry friend. Don’t forget the water bowl and the UPF gear for yourself!

Some spend their whole lives searching for their roots—a place to connect, a place to call home.

A bivy is the most streamlined way to carry real shelter without the bulk of a tent. And after decades of building them, we've learned what fast-moving, weight-conscious trips call for: proven weather defense, durability, and a packable, minimalist design built for real backcountry conditions.  Our bivy lineup covers the full range of fast-and-light objectives. The Alpine XT bivy delivers waterproof, four-season protection for exposed terrain and unpredictable weather. The Helium UL Bivy offers ultralight, low-profile shelter that disappears in your pack until you need it. The brand-new Helium UL Vestibule integrates with the Helium UL Bivy to create a modular shelter system that expands coverage and livable space when conditions call for it. And the Bug Bivy keeps airflow high and insects out on warm-weather trips when breathability matters most.    Quick Comparison Model Weight  Protection Level Best For Alpine XT Bivy 20.95 oz  4-Season Waterproof Exposed alpine terrain Helium UL Bivy 18.02 oz 3-Season Waterproof Fastpacking, thru-hiking, bikepacking Helium UL Vestibule 5.46 oz Added weather + gear coverage Expanding Helium UL system Helium UL Bivy + Vestibule 23.48 oz combined Expanded shelter system Extended backcountry trips Bug XT Bivy 16.38 oz Insect + ground protection Buggy terrain   Alpine XT Bivy Maximum waterproof protection and breathable comfort for exposed terrain and unpredictable weather.    Quick Specs Fabric: 3L Pertex® Shield Air with electrospun laminate (55% recycled nylon ripstop) Floor: 40D ripstop nylon with PU coating  Weight: 20.95 oz / 594 g Seasonality: 4-season Why Choose the Alpine XT Bivy 3-layer Pertex® Shield Air delivers fully waterproof protection with exceptional breathability. Updated 2026 design increases interior volume for improved comfort and gear storage.  High-volume toe box maintains sleeping bag loft and comfort. Large side opening and Fly Fastener system allows you to expose mesh for airflow and stargazing when conditions allow.  Passive ventilation flap helps reduce condensation in cold or wet environments. Single DAC aluminum pole maintains structure and headroom. Reflective trims and included aluminum stakes secure the shelter in exposed camps. Choose This If: You need a four-season waterproof protection in exposed environments and want more interior space than a minimalist bivy provides.  Shop Alpine XT Bivy   Helium UL Bivy Ultralight, low-profile waterproof protection built for fast-moving objectives.     Quick Specs Fabric: 2.5L Pertex® Shield NetPlus with hydrophilic laminate (100% recycled 30D ripstop upper) Floor: 40D ripstop nylon with PU coating Weight: 18.02 oz / 511 g Seasonality: 3-season Why Choose the Helium UL Bivy Fully seamed taped Pertex® Shield NetPlus balances waterproof protection and breathability in a ultralight 2.5-layer construction. Updated 2026 design refines fit and improves livability. Dual passive ventilation flaps increase airflow and help minimize condensation. Clamshell opening with no-see-um mesh provides ventilation and bug protection. Single DAC aluminum pole adds headspace without adding bulk. Six stake loops and a guy line loop improve stability in shifting weather.  Choose This If: You want legitimate waterproof protection that weighs less than most one-person tents and disappears into your pack until weather rolls in.  Shop Helium UL Bivy   Helium UL Vestibule Ultralight add-on coverage that expands your Helium UL Bivy without the weight of a tent.     Quick Specs Fabric: 15D silicone-coated nylon ripstop Weight: 5.46 oz / 155 g (23.48 oz combined with the Helium UL Bivy) Compatibility: Designed exclusively for the Helium UL Bivy Why Choose the Helium UL Vestibule Adds meaningful covered space for gear storage or weather protection with minimal added weight. Barrel attachment system integrates directly with the Helium UL Bivy for a clean, secure pitch. Designed to pitch with a single trekking pole to keep your shelter system ultralight. Waterproof silicone-coated ripstop balances durability and packability.  Semi-translucent fabric maintains interior light while blocking precipitation. Reflective trims and included aluminum stakes improve visibility and stability.  Choose This If: You want to extend your Helium UL Bivy into a more versatile shelter system—adding coverage and comfort without committing to the weight of a tent.  Shop Helium UL Vestibule   Bug XT Bivy Maximum airflow and insect protection for warm-weather trips where breathability comes first.  Quick Specs Fabric (Upper): bluesign® approved polyester no-see-um mesh Floor: 40D polyester ripstop with PU coating Weight: 16.38 oz / 464 g Dimensions: 89.0 in x 26.0 in x 21.75 in Seasonality: Warm weather Why Choose the Bug XT Bivy Full mesh upper maximizes airflow while keeping insects out in buggy environments. Seam-taped waterproof floor protects from ground moisture.  Updated 2026 design improves structure and interior comfort.  Double aluminum pole system increases head and shoulder space.  Large side opening allows easy entry and exit.  bluesign® approved materials. Choose This If: You're heading into conditions where insects are the main concern and airflow is essential. Shop Bug XT Bivy   Find Your Shelter Whether you're pushing into exposed alpine terrain, moving fast and light across long miles, or dialing in a minimalist summer kit, our bivy lineup is built to match the objective.  Explore the full bivy collection and build the shelter system that fits your next mission.    Shop Bivys & Vestibules Learn How to Set Up Your Bivy & Vestibule

Choosing the right gloves can make or break a day in the mountains. Whether you’re logging trail miles, swinging tools into vertical ice, or chasing powder from first chair to last light, your hands need protection that matches the demands of the moment. The best gloves balance warmth, dexterity, durability, and weatherproofing—but the ideal combination looks different for hikers, climbers, skiers, and runners.  Best for Hiking or Trail Running If you’re planning a hike or need a lightweight liner beneath heavier gloves, look for gloves that deliver stretch, dexterity, and breathability. Our current lineup offers glove options designed for layering and active use, featuring light, stretchy fleece construction that moves with you and keeps hands comfortable. Other nice-to-have features include: touchscreen compatibility - handy when you need to access your device, waterproofing - useful if you're hiking in wet conditions, and packability – carrying an emergency pair is always a smart move. Best Gloves for Hiking and Trail Running     Ice Climbing and Alpine Climbing Gloves  For ice climbers and mountaineers tackling cold, dry conditions, finding the right glove means balancing warmth, water resistance, and dexterity—so you can trust your grip on tools like ice axes without sacrificing protection or feel.  The alpine glove collection is designed with these challenges in mind. Here are some top choices trusted by guides, climbers, and skiers, built to perform in demanding environments:  Arete Modular GORE-TEX Gloves & Mitts: built for cold starts and demanding alpine missions alike. A waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX insert, and durable nylon shell keep hands dry when conditions turn.   Mt. Baker Mitts™: A time-tested favorite, these blend weather-resistant, breathable protection with a removable wool blend liner for adjustable warmth. The gauntlet cuff adds coverage, while the tough shell material stands up to mountain abuse day after day.  Whatever alpine objective you’re preparing for, Outdoor Research’s alpine gloves blend decades of design experience with field-driven details—so you can focus on the climb, not your gear.  Shop Alpine Gloves    Ski and Snowboard Gloves  When choosing gloves or mitts for skiing or snowboarding, you need gear that keeps hands warm, dry, and ready for long days outside. Prioritize durable, waterproof shells—materials like Ventia™ waterproof membrane and GORE-TEX® that are engineered to block moisture while letting sweat escape, keeping your grip steady from first chair to last lap. A multi-layer approach reflects how we build the best clothing systems, letting your hands stay comfortable during the iciest chairlift rides and on deep powder days.  Coverage plays a huge role in keeping your hands warm and protected. Extended cuffs—whether gauntlet-style or undercuff—help seal out wind and blowing snow, especially when paired with secure closures like zippers, drawcords, or adjustable straps. If you run cold or spend long days in deep winter conditions, insulated options add dependable warmth without sacrificing performance.  Shop Ski and Snowboard Gloves     No matter where your next adventure takes you—up a windswept ridge, across a frozen waterfall, or down a powderfilled line—the right gloves keep your hands warm, protected, and ready to move. Understanding what each activity demands helps you choose gear that won’t hold you back when conditions shift. With thoughtful design, durable materials, and fieldtested performance, the right pair of gloves lets you stay focused on the experience, not the temperature.     Shop All Gloves

When winter hits hard, old-school layering just doesn’t cut it—bulky, uncomfortable, and far from efficient. Modern fleece-lined pants are a better answer, offering built-in warmth without sacrificing movement. Whether braving a snowy trail or heading out for a cold evening walk, these pants keep you warm and comfortable. Here’s what makes fleece-lined pants outperform old layers, and how to find the right pair for your cold-weather adventures. What Are Fleece-Lined Pants? At their core, fleece-lined pants are exactly what they sound like: pants that feature a soft, insulating layer of fleece on the interior. In technical outdoor gear, there’s more going on than just stitching two fabrics together. High-quality fleece-lined outdoor pants use bonded construction: a durable, weather-resistant outer shell, often a softshell or tough canvas—fused to a soft microfleece backing. This creates a single, purpose-built fabric for real-world comfort and performance. The tough outer shell shields against abrasion, wind, and light rain, standing up to rough trails or daily wear. Inside, soft fleece traps warmth, insulates without bulky layers, and wicks moisture for lasting comfort on the move. Compared to standard pants, fleece-lined options deliver cold-weather warmth, flexibility, and a softer feel. Unlike stiff, heavy flannels, today’s fleece-lined pants keep you warm, comfortable, and moving, whether hiking, running errands, or braving winter days. For most winter activities from hiking and snowshoeing to daily life, fleece-lined pants offer superior thermoregulation and comfort for several reasons. When you wear long underwear under loose hiking pants, there is often a layer of dead air between the two garments. While air is an insulator, too much air circulation can actually rob you of heat. As you move, your outer pants act like a bellows, pumping cold air in and pushing warm air out. Fleece-lined pants eliminate this gap. The insulation is bonded to the shell, ensuring that the warm air stays trapped close to your skin where it belongs. This efficiency means you can often get away with a lighter overall garment while staying just as warm.   Key Benefits of Fleece-Lined Pants Beyond the basic mechanics of how they work, there are specific performance benefits that make these pants a staple in any winter kit. Warmth Without the Bulk Winter usually means bulk. Puffy jackets, thick socks, and multiple leg layers can leave you feeling stiff and clumsy. Fleece-lined pants offer streamlined warmth. You get the insulation value of a mid-weight base layer and a softshell pant combined, but with the profile of a regular pair of trousers. This reduces fabric friction and makes walking, climbing, or scrambling over rocks significantly easier. Wind and Weather Resistance One of the biggest thieves of warmth is wind and weather resistance. A standard pair of knit hiking pants allows wind to cut right through the weave. You might be generating heat, but the wind strips it away instantly. The bonded construction of cold weather pants creates a denser barrier. This is crucial on exposed ridge lines or windy coastal walks where the ambient temperature might not be extreme, but the wind chill is biting.   When to Wear Fleece-Lined Pants Fleece-lined pants are more than just another layer—they’re built for the realities of winter. Their warmth and versatility make them a cold-weather staple for a wide range of days and destinations. Winter Hiking and Trail Days This is the primary habitat for fleece-lined hiking pants. On a trail where temperatures hover around or below freezing, your legs generate a lot of heat, but you need protection from snow and wind. These pants hit the sweet spot. They breathe enough to keep you from overheating on the uphill but keep you warm when you stop for a snack break. Travel and Commuting You don’t have to be on a mountain to appreciate warmth. Waiting for a bus, walking the dog, or biking to work in the winter can be brutally cold. Fleece-lined pants offer a clean, polished appearance that doesn’t shout “mountaineer.” You can wear them to the office without looking like you just stepped off a glacier, which makes them a practical choice for everyday winter life. Snowy Errands and Dog Walks Not every winter day is spent on the trail. Some of the season’s best moments happen closer to home, tackling snowy grocery runs, post-storm shoveling, or walking the dog through fresh powder. Fleece-lined pants are designed for these daily rituals—shielding your legs from biting wind, keeping you dry when brushing against snowdrifts, and letting you linger outdoors a little longer. Whether you’re crossing town with an armful of groceries or winding through the park with your dog, these pants transform cold-weather chores into more comfortable experiences. Casual Winter Wear On off days, fleece-lined pants transition easily from the backyard fire pit to neighborhood meetups or lazy weekend mornings. Their soft, fleece interior means you can wear them for hours, wherever the day leads.     How to Choose the Right Pair Fit and Stretch Finding the right fit is key when it comes to fleece-lined pants. Look for designs that move with you, offering enough room for layering without feeling bulky or restrictive. A dialed-in fit ensures the pants stay put through high-stepping, bending, or lounging, so your focus stays on the day ahead—not on tugging at your cuffs. Activity Level Think about where and how you’ll be wearing your fleece-lined pants. If your winter days include challenging hikes, trekking, or snowshoe outings, seek out technical features like reinforced panels for durability and mobility. For lower-intensity use—think commuting, travel, or daily walks—comfort and easy-to-layer styling may top your priority list. Our fleece-lined pants are built for real-world versatility, meeting both trail-hardened and everyday needs head on. Weather Conditions Not all cold days are created equal. Assess your typical winter conditions to guide your choice. For dry, mild cold, classic fleece linings deliver the warmth you need without overheating. When the mercury drops or biting wind picks up, look for pants with dense fleece lining and wind-resistant outer fabrics for extra protection. If you regularly head out in variable or unpredictable conditions, opt for pants that balance insulation with breathability—keeping you warm while allowing excess heat and moisture to escape. Water Resistance or Weather Protection Wet snow and winter drizzle demand more from your cold weather gear. Some fleece-lined pants feature a water-resistant or weather-repellent finish, so slushy trails and damp weather don’t soak your legs or sap your warmth. Look for DWR-treated (Durable Water Repellent) fabrics that shed light rain and snow. While not a substitute for a full rain shell, these technical touches can make a big difference in staying comfortable and dry when cold conditions are unpredictable. Choosing the right fleece-lined pants means thinking through fit, stretch, activity, weather, and protection from the elements—ensuring you’re set for whatever winter throws your way.   Why Outdoor-Built Fleece-Lined Pants Matter When we design a pair of fleece-lined outdoor pants, we aren't just thinking about them feeling soft in the dressing room. We are thinking about how the seam placement sits under a harness. We are testing how the fabric holds up when you are scrambling over abrasive granite. We are thinking about the breathability ratings because we know that sweating in sub-freezing temps can be dangerous. Our gear is born from experience. It’s built for the person who is going to be out there from dawn until dusk, regardless of what the forecast says. We use higher-quality technical fabrics that resist pilling, retain their shape after days of wear, and provide consistent warmth season after season. When you choose technical outdoor pants, you are choosing durability. You are choosing a garment designed to handle the rigors of the trail, the sharp edges of skis, and the unpredictable nature of winter weather. It’s the difference between clothing that is simply "warm" and gear that is a tool for adventure.   The Bottom Line Winter is too long to spend it shivering or stuck indoors. The right gear opens up the season. It turns a freezing, miserable hike into a crisp, invigorating adventure. It transforms a cold morning at the dog park into a peaceful start to the day. Fleece-lined pants are one of the simplest, most effective upgrades you can make to your winter kit. They offer a simple promise: warmth without the hassle. They let you move freely, stay dry, and focus on the experience rather than the temperature. So, don't let the thermometer dictate your schedule. Grab a pair of pants that can handle the cold, and get out there. The trails are quieter, the air is cleaner, and the coffee always tastes better when you’ve earned it in the cold.   Shop Fleece-Lined Pants Shop Cold-Weather Hiking Gear

Our relationship with Pertex® began in the spring of 2008, when we set out to build rain shells that were tough enough for the mountains but light enough to live in a pack. That partnership first showed up in the Revel and Reflexa Rain Collection, and later evolved into the Helium Rain Collection—now one of our longest-running best sellers. Nearly two decades later, that same Pertex®-driven DNA still runs through the gear our athletes rely on. In the trip report below, Ian Provo talks about his quick-strike mission into Wyoming’s Wind River Range with Max Djenohan and Neil Provo, where the Cloudchaser Kit, SuperStrand XT, and Super Alpine Down get put to the test. Words by OR athlete Ian Provo Within the first few miles of leaving the trailhead, I found myself deep in contemplation, my thoughts flooded with questions - Did I pack enough food? Too much food? How many pairs of socks did I bring? I hope I grabbed my Superstrand XT. Covering the essentials, I felt good about my pack job. It was the first week of May, 2025, when myself along with fellow OR teammates Max Djenohan and brother Neil Provo, joined three other friends for an eleven day ski tour loop through the Wind River Range. Mile after mile of slogging under the burden of heavy loads, fueled by excitement and anticipation, deeper, more critical questions filled my thoughts - did I bite off more than I can chew? Am I going to survive this tour?     "The Winds" are notoriously rugged and remote. One hundred miles of granite encompassing the highest peaks of Wyoming, and a wilderness of astounding quality. There is no easy way to get there. The seventeen mile approach to our first camp was a reality check. I watched my younger partners, some of the strongest splitboarders I know who've been riding hard all year long, pull away into the unknown landscape. I was unprepared and I knew it, but was eager for an adventure. As a new father of a one year old boy, my time on skis leading up to the trip was limited. I was going from the couch right into the biggest ski tour of my life. I slogged into that first camp with my headlamp on, absolutely gassed, and threw down my massive pack. While the brutal one day approach took its toll on my body and spirit, the reward was waking up in position at the base of numerous granite masterpieces cloaked in ski lines. We hoped to ride as many as we could, then pack up and move camp to a new basin, repeating this process until the route was complete. I followed Neil and Max and a set of wolverine tracks to the base of a beautiful couloir on the south side of Fremont Peak, but couldn't continue. The guys charged ahead. I was cooked, and wondered if this is how my trip would go - struggling from one camp to the next, bypassing all of the radical high angle skiing that surrounded me.   Our party carried on to the next camp, a dizzying trek under oppressive loads and a powerful spring sun whose rays were potent at eleven thousand feet. A never ending stream of sweat vapor poured from the leg vents of my Cloudchaser bibs with every stride. I collapsed when we reached our campsite, just happy to have made it from point B to point C. Once more, we were surrounded by epic ski lines situated in one of the most striking alpine basins in the country. The brilliant cosmos flashed with meteors from the Eta Aquariid stream and I hastily set up a time-lapse before surrendering to my sleeping bag. My ragged body was turning the corner, my strength was returning, and I was finally feeling optimistic for the days ahead.       A fast moving, yet powerful storm was forecast for sometime during the middle of our trip. I wondered where we would be on the route when it hit, and if we'd have a safe spot to weather the elements. The winds arrived during the afternoon hours when we were miles away from camp exploring lines on the Dinwoody glacier. We realized we had left some critical pieces of gear out to dry back at camp, so we hustled back to prepare for the worst of it. After collecting sleeping bags and pads that had flown half a mile in either direction from camp, we battened down the hatches as the storm front hit. For the next sixteen hours our camp was rocked by storm force winds - lightweight tents toppled in the gusts, drifts of snow piled high on our sleeping bags. I happily endured the winter-like gale in my Super Alpine Down Parka which was a critical piece to my sleep system - having only brought an ultralight summer sleeping bag on the trip. We emerged from the storm with everything accounted for and just a little bit of damage to the tents. It was more blow than snow, and soon enough the sun and pleasant spring weather returned. A few more lines were ridden.     My backpack straps didn't cut as deep as we scaled a 12,500' mountain pass en-route to our third camp. Waves of energy seemed to pour down from the awesome peaks above, powering each step and filling me with inspiration. My questions were being answered. Tears of joy rolled down my face as I crested the saddle and gazed into a deep valley and across more impressive mountains. The following day, I would celebrate my 39th birthday atop one of those summits. Struck with the realization that I was entering a new chapter as a father, that these types of trips might be less common, I savored the moment. After a few thousand feet of perfectly soft corn snow, our crew settled into another spectacular campsite. The valley offered up big alpine faces, flowing corn runs, and steep couloirs slicing through granite spires. It took a few days to ski a fraction of it. Under much lighter loads, we set out to close up the loop. The bulk of our pack weight had been eaten up and on the eleventh day we easily glided out of The Winds and down to the town of Pinedale. My thoughts now focused solely on visions of freshly cooked cheeseburgers.   Shop Pertex Gear Lear More about Pertex Meet the Athletes: Ian Provo Max Djenohan Neil Provo  

Don't let dipping temps keep you from hitting the trail. Follow these tips for more fun, enjoyable winter running. As the temperature drops, so can motivation for running outside. The shock of opening the door from your cozy house … the attention that dressing properly requires … it can all stack up to make getting out there feel more difficult than in the warmer months. With a few simple tips, though, winter can be a season to tackle and even enjoy. Whether running is just your mid-week skiing training, or the running is the goal itself, it’s a great way to maintain or gain aerobic fitness for nearly every outdoor endeavor. Here are five ways to make the most of running in cold weather.  1. Don’t overdress Your body will warm up quickly, so even though you might be cold when you head out the door, stick it out so you don’t have to unload all your layers a few minutes in. A general rule of thumb is to dress as if it’s 10 degrees warmer than the actual temperature but ultimately, you know your body best. Factor in whether you tend to run cold or warm, as well as the intensity of your planned run to decide your best winter running gear.  40-50 degrees: Capris with a light long-sleeved shirt. 30-40 degrees: Capris or tights with a long-sleeved shirt and jacket or vest.20-30 degrees: Tights, a wool baselayer and lightly insulated jacket, plus possible vest.Below 20 degrees: Lined tights, a wool baselayer and insulated jacket or softshell jacket based on weather.   2. Protect your head and hands We lose a lot of heat through our head and hands. So even while you might need to dress more lightly than you expect for your arms and legs, leaving your hands and head exposed will make you cold. If the temperature is lower than 40 degrees, I always wear a light beanie. Below that, a heavier one can keep you nice and toasty without wearing a bunch of layers. Likewise, having warm hands means your body won’t need to work harder to get blood all the way down to your digits. Have you ever seen marathoners in tank tops and gloves? That’s why.     3. Breathe through your nose Cold air is…cold. Especially with temperatures under 20 degrees, it can hurt to breathe heavily. Luckily for us, our nose is designed to warm and filter air, which can make running in cold temperatures—especially if you’re sensitive to lung conditions—much more enjoyable.   4. Eat, drink, and be merry (and lucid) It’s easy to not drink water when it’s cold, but it’s just as important as when it’s warm out. In many areas, air is drier in winter than in other seasons, and becoming dehydrated can make you even colder. If cold water sounds unappealing, put tea in an insulated bottle in a pack, or use the weather as an excuse for either a mid-run stop or a point-to-point route to your favorite coffee shop. Grabbing a pastry to go with your coffee can also help keep you warm and firing on all cylinders. Winter is not the time to get glycogen depleted and loopy. It’s all in the name of training: many of my long runs have been saved by a pastry and coffee.   5. Choose a goal, build the momentum with friends. It’s always easier to get out of bed on a cold, dark, morning when you know a friend is waiting for you, especially when you’ve laid out your best winter running gear the night before. Pick a race or route that you’re both excited about but that will take some training to realize, and then schedule to meet up for the runs you’re least looking forward too. For some people that’s the long run. But for others, it’s the middle- or end-of-the-week run when you’d rather do anything else than get out of bed early, or head out after work instead of going straight home. And always remember: pastries and coffee always help.   Shop Winter Running Gear

Gloves and mitts are one of the few pieces of gear you use all day, every day in winter. When they work, you don’t think about them. When they don’t, nothing else matters. That’s why handwear has always been core to how we design at Outdoor Research. This winter, we’re introducing the OR Athlete Glove Team—a group of ski and snowboard athletes who trust OR gloves and mitts across competition, filming, freeride, and backcountry skiing and riding. That these skiers and riders trust our gear is simple, visible proof of what we’ve been building for decades: technical handwear designed to hold up through long days, changing conditions, and real winter use. “We’ve been making technical gloves and mitts for decades, and athlete trust has always been a big part of that,” says Chris King, Vice President of Brand at Outdoor Research. “When athletes choose our gloves and mitts day after day, that says a lot. The Glove Team highlights that trust and the role our handwear plays from the backcountry to the terrain park and beyond.”   Built on Trust, Not Hype The OR Glove Athlete Team reflects the full range of winter riding—Olympic competition, big-mountain freeriding, and long days filming in remote terrain. Across all of it, one thing stays constant: hands need protection that balances warmth, dexterity, and durability without getting in the way. “Gloves and mitts are one of the few pieces of gear you rely on constantly,” says snowboarder Austen Sweetin. “It matters what you trust on your hands.” For skier Malou Peterson, that trust is earned over time, across different styles of skiing and long seasons spent outside. “I spend a lot of time moving between touring, skiing, and long days outside,” Malou says. “Gloves and mitts are constant in all of that. When you find a pair you trust, they become something you don’t think about—and that’s exactly how it should be.”   Meet the OR Glove Athlete Team Ski Malou Peterson Raised in Åre, Sweden, Malou’s path has moved from traditional competition to adventure-driven skiing in steep, consequential terrain. After years spent in Chamonix refining her backcountry focus, she now splits her time between winter missions in places like Revelstoke, Greenland, and Iceland, and life near the ocean in Southern California. Through skiing, film, and photography, Malou brings a thoughtful, expressive approach to movement and exploration. Favorite styles: Team GORE-TEX Glove, Team GORE-TEX 3-Finger Glove, Aksel Work Glove, Stormbound GORE-TEX Down Mitt     Alex Hackel Known for blending creativity with all-mountain versatility, Alex built his foundation in street skiing before expanding into big-mountain terrain and elite competition. With podiums at X Games and the Freeride World Tour, his skiing is defined by originality, control, and adaptability. Beyond results, Alex connects with a wide audience by sharing the process and craft behind his skiing. Favorite styles: Team GORE-TEX Glove, Arete Modular GORE-TEX Glove, Mt. Baker II GORE-TEXT Mitt, Revolution GORE-TEX Glove     Megan Oldham A technically precise and quietly influential force in freeskiing, Megan transitioned from figure skating and gymnastics into slopestyle with immediate impact. She claimed the Slopestyle Crystal Globe in her rookie World Cup season and has since earned World Championship medals, X Games podiums, and landed a landmark triple cork 1440—continuing to help define the progression of women’s skiing. Favorite styles: Team GORE-TEX Mitt, Team GORE-TEX Glove, Stormtracker Sensor Windbloc Glove, Stormbound GORE-TEX Down Mitt     Evan McEachran Evan’s career is built on consistency, discipline, and earned trust. Rising through Canada’s club system, he’s represented his country at two Olympic Games, stacked World Cup podiums, and competed at X Games annually since 2015. Off the contest circuit, he shares training and day-to-day skiing with a grounded, process-driven approach. Favorite styles: Team GORE-TEX Mitt, Stormtracker Sensor Windbloc Glove, Aksel Work Glove, Snowcrew Leather Mitt     Fin Melville-Ives Hailing from Wānaka, New Zealand, Fin emerged rapidly onto the global stage—earning two World Cup wins and the FIS World Championship title in halfpipe in a single breakout season. Part of a new generation of Kiwi freeskiers, he enters the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic cycle as one of the most closely watched athletes in the sport. Favorite styles: Team GORE-TEX Mitt, Stormtracker Sensor Windbloc Glove, Ironsight Sensor Glove, Snowcrew Leather Mitt     Lucas Wachs Shaped by Mount Bachelor and a childhood spent across multiple outdoor disciplines, Lucas built his career through filming rather than contests. With standout segments for IF3, 4BI9, Poor Boyz, MSP, and Level 1, his skiing blends creativity, versatility, and storytelling—equally at home on pillows, park jumps, and big backcountry lines. Favorite styles: Team GORE-TEX Glove, Team GORE-TEX 3-Finger Glove, Aksel Work Glove, Alpinite GORE-TEX Glove       Snowboard Austen Sweetin A product of the Pacific Northwest, Austen is known for versatility that spans resort, backcountry, and everything in between. Over the past decade, his film segments have helped shape modern snowboarding, pairing progression with purpose and a deep understanding of terrain and conditions. Favorite styles: Mt. Baker II GORE-TEX Mitt, Arete Modular GORE-TEX Mitt, Carbide Sensor Mitt, Adrenaline Mitt     Juliette Pelchat Known as “Jubes,” Juliette brings an instinctive, expressive style shaped by Whistler’s tight-knit snowboard community. A member of the Canadian National Team, she competes at the World Cup level while also contributing meaningfully to snowboard culture through edits, personality, and presence. Favorite styles: Team GORE-TEX Mitt, Team GORE-TEX Glove, Snowcrew Leather Mitt, Stormtracker Sensor Windbloc Glove     Bryan Fox Bryan approaches snowboarding with a builder’s mindset—with heavy input in board design and shape while riding with intention and curiosity. Grounded in Pacific Northwest terrain, his work bridges riding, product creation, and creative projects, emphasizing materials, feel, and thoughtful design. Favorite styles: Team GORE-TEX Glove, Team GORE-TEX 3-Finger Glove, Aksel Work Glove, Arete Modular 3-Finger Glove     Truth Smith Defined by resilience and work ethic, Truth rebuilt his career after an early setback, earning his way back onto the Canadian Snowboard Team. Balancing competition with film projects through his Shmobb crew, he continues to push progression with a long-term view—eyes set firmly on the 2026 competition schedule. Favorite styles: Team GORE-TEX Mitt, Hemispheres Team GORE-TEX Mitt, Stormtracker Sensor Windbloc Glove, Revolution GORE-TEX Mitt     Šárka Pančochová One of the most accomplished riders in women’s snowboarding, Šárka’s career spans three Olympic Games, X Games medals, World Cup victories, and elite freeriding. Recently focused on the backcountry, she brought that experience to the Natural Selection Tour—earning a podium in her first appearance and continuing to influence the next generation. Favorite styles: Team GORE-TEX Mitt, Hemispheres Team GORE-TEX Mitt, Team GORE-TEX Glove, Stormbound GORE-TEX Down Mitt     Handwear That Shows Up All Winter For over four decades, we’ve built gloves and mitts to meet the realities of winter—from cold chairlift rides and storm days inbounds to remote backcountry missions. The OR Glove Athlete Team reflects that same mindset: dependable gear, used consistently, across the full spectrum of winter riding. Because when it comes to gloves and mitts, the best ones are the ones you never have to think about. Shop Ski & Snowboard Gloves

As we head into one of the biggest seasons of her career, we sat down with OR athlete and reigning World Champion Zoe Atkin to talk gear, progression, and the mindset that’s carrying her toward Italy. Zoe’s been part of the OR family for five years, and in that time we’ve watched her evolve from a young standout with huge potential into one of the most composed, technically gifted halfpipe skiers in the world. What follows is a conversation about balance, fear, confidence, and the passion that pushes her to excel in skiing and life. Q: How long have you been skiing for OR, and what kits are you wearing? Zoe: I’ve been with Outdoor Research for five years now, and I love to switch up my kits. Powderverse Kit for training — lightly insulated, warm. Cloudchaser Limited Edition Kit in spring — breathable, great colors. Stormtracker Gloves for pipe training — great for mobility. Team GORE-TEX Mitt for free skiing — super warm, love the leather. Q: How did you first get into skiing? Zoe: I started skiing around age two. We lived on the East Coast then, and my parents drove us to Maine every weekend. I instantly got hooked. Q: You live in Park City now. Hot take: East Coast or West Coast? Zoe: West Coast, for sure. But I’d totally go back East sometimes — the culture is fun and people get after it even in icy conditions. Q: Community comes up a lot in freeskiing. What does it mean to you? Zoe: It’s everything. Having great skiers around you helps you push your limits. The stoke is always higher when you’re skiing with others who are chasing the same goals — it brings out the best in everyone and makes it really fun to get out and ski with your friends. Q: Your sister Isabel is a huge inspiration. What was it like growing up with her? Zoe: Growing up with my sister was the best. I never dreamed of becoming a professional skier when I was younger but watching her succeed showed me what was possible. I was at the 2018 Olympics when she won her medal — after that, I wanted to do everything she did. She’s also been an incredible support system. Not many people understand standing at the top of a massive pipe intending to throw your body 20 feet out of it — but she gets it.     Q: Why halfpipe instead of following Isabel into slopestyle? Zoe: Part of me wanted my own identity. For a long time I was “Isabel Atkin’s younger sister.” Superpipe gave me my own avenue to grow into the skier and person I wanted to be. Q: You compete at the highest level and go to Stanford, while a lot of your competition is just focusing on skiing. How do you balance both? Zoe: I grew up in an academically focused household. School was always the main thing and skiing was extracurricular, and I’ve always loved learning. Competing at the highest level is demanding, especially mentally. Stanford gives me space to step away from skiing and be “Zoe the student.” That balance helps me perform better on snow. Q: Does your academic work influence your skiing? Zoe: Definitely, in a couple of ways. First, developing an identity outside of skiing and competition results has been huge for my performance on the hill. The ups and downs of skiing at the highest level are stressful and knowing that I exist outside of competition takes a lot of the pressure off. Second, I study symbolic systems — essentially how thinking systems work. Understanding the psychology of fear, rationality, and performance psychology has helped me push through mental blocks in the pipe. It’s made a big difference. Q: You’re known for big amplitude and high-consequence tricks. How do you balance progression with staying healthy through a long competition season? Zoe: Skiing is a dangerous sport, but I try not to focus on the risks. Instead, I focus on building confidence and staying in the right headspace. By the time I drop into a competition run, I’ve done hundreds of repetitions of every trick and amplitude, building trust in my body and my preparation. I know I’ve put in the strength and body awareness work to handle whatever comes, even when things don’t go according to plan. Q: Walk us through your most recent season. Zoe: 2nd at Copper World Cup, 2nd at Calgary World Cup, 1st at Aspen World Cup, won the Crystal Globe overall, and became World Champion. X Games was hard — I finished 4th and struggled with a trick mentally. But then I landed the run I needed to win the World Cup in the same pipe the next week. That felt good. Q: Can you connect the X Games low to succeeding at World Champs? Zoe: X Games 2025 felt like a big loss. I didn’t want to be 4th ever again. After X Games I recommitted to training — especially a trick I’d feared for years. I worked on it every day for two weeks leading into World Champs. Bit by bit, the fear lessened. I built confidence. Landing that run under immense pressure and winning World Champs felt incredible and validated the work.     Q: What’s training been like leading into the Italy? Zoe: Intense. World Champs was a big turning point — I overcame major mental blocks and landed a high-pressure run after falling on my first run. That proved to me what I’m capable of. I’m getting a ton of reps — more amplitude, more style, more confidence. I have this renewed mentality with my training — in the gym, with my sports psych, on the snow, and going into Italy as world number one feels good. Q: Great Britain doesn’t have a pipe team, so you and your coach run a solo program. Do you miss having a team? Zoe: Sometimes, yeah. But the ski community really feels like a team — we’re all competitors, but we’re all friends. And I like the independence of running my own program and setting my own goals. Q: What’s the dynamic with your coach like? Zoe: He knows me really well, and he knows I want to win. There’s a level of trust we have with each other — we hold ourselves accountable. He really understands my mental process and helps me work past my fear blockers. Q: Thinking back to your first Olympics in 2022, what changed for you? Zoe: My first Olympics was exciting but stressful — COVID tests, charters, not much outside contact. I was 19, put a lot of pressure on myself, and didn’t land the run I wanted. That was tough. Taking a summer off, doing a Europe trip with my sister, and starting at Stanford reset my perspective. I even considered retiring — and then I won X Games that next year. That was a huge confidence boost and a testament to focusing on the process and having fun while you’re doing your sport. Q: What does your dream post-event celebration in Italy look like? Zoe: Aperol spritz. Pasta. Pizza. Gelato. Maybe champagne. The essentials. (Laughs) Q: We get the feeling you’re going to be drinking a lot of celebratory Prosecco. Best of luck in Italy, Zoe! Zoe: Thank you so much.   Learn More About Zoe Atkin Shop OR Athlete Collection

Welcome to the season of giving! If you’re anything like us, you probably have a jacket or two ready for a new home. Join us for the OR Annual Coat Drive, happening 12/2–12/9, and help share the warmth. Bring in a gently-used coat or jacket to any of our stores listed below, and receive $50 off a $150+ purchase, redeemable in-store that same day. All coats and jackets will be donated to Mary’s Place, a local Seattle organization that helps women and families move out of homelessness and into more stable situations. Learn more about Mary’s Place below. How It Works Bring in your gently-used jacket to one of our store locations. Receive $50 off any in-store purchase of $150 or more, to be redeemed the same day. Donate the coat or jacket on-site; it will be collected and delivered to Mary's Place. Shop for something new and feel good knowing part of your visit is making a difference. Participating Locations OR Flagship Store: SODO 2203 1st Ave South Seattle, WA 98134 Hours: M-F 10 AM – 5 PM. Sunday 11 – 5 PM OR Bellingham Outlet Store 1501 12th St Bellingham, WA 98225 Hours: M-F 10 AM – 5 PM. Sunday 11 – 5 PM OR Des Moines Outlet Store 21402 24th Ave South Building B, Suite K Des Moines, WA 98198 Hours: Sunday – Wednesday 10 AM – 5 PM. Thursday – Saturday 10 AM – 6 PM *Store Hours Subject to Change A Few Notes · Discount applies to in-store purchase the same day of donation. · Please bring in a jacket or coat that is in good enough condition that it can still be enjoyed. · Multiple coat and jackets donations will not increase the discount amount. About Mary’s Place Since 1999, Mary’s Place has helped thousands of women and families move out of homelessness into more stable situations. How do they do this? With two emergency family shelters in King County, they keep families together, inside, and safe when they have no place else to go, providing resources, housing and employment services, community, and hope. Each day, the Mary’s Place housing team works with families to address barriers and empower parents to build family stability, secure housing, and prepare for employment. Kids are connected with schools, participate in fun and enriching activities, and go on outings and adventures in Kids Club. In the evening, families in shelter eat dinner, do homework, spend time together, and prepare for the week ahead. Mary’s Place families include two-parent families (pregnant or with children), single parents of all genders (pregnant or with children), extended families, and families with pets! Mary’s Place team of mobile outreach specialists work with unsheltered families where they are, bringing supplies and resources to help address barriers. With flexible funding, the team helps families move quickly into stable housing, bypassing a shelter stay. By keeping families in their homes, preventing homelessness in the first place, reduces trauma, particularly among children, stops the cycle of generational homelessness, and is cost-effective. Mary’s Place ensures donated items go directly to families in need, and your contribution will do exactly that. For year-round ways to support Mary’s Place, visit their website     Why Your Jacket Donation Matters When you bring in a gently-used jacket, you’re doing much more than just decluttering your closet. Here’s what your generosity accomplishes: · Warmth and dignity – A good jacket can make all the difference in someone’s day when they’re facing cold weather. You’re helping someone feel comfortable, protected, and cared for. · Support-in-action – Your donation supports a community organization (Mary’s Place) that’s tackling serious challenges like homelessness and instability for women and children. · Ripple effect of giving – By participating, you’ve modelled a culture of caring. That act can inspire others, family, friends, coworkers, to give what they can, amplifying the impact.