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While you may have promised yourself never to sound like your mother (or father), you might hear her in your voice when you shout “reminders” to your kids to put a coat on as they streak out the door, going this way or that. Looking for something warm this winter season?
As a top layer, or for a good mid-weight jacket, the Xersion Midweight Puffer Jacket is one worth looking at. It’s got a “puffer” style chest or vest, and knit sleeves with thumb holes. Available in four color combinations, it’s got a layered look about it all on its own. It’s a good top layer, but you can also put it underneath a heavier coat if you are looking to add another layer for warmth. I know, I’m saying “layer” a lot, but it’s a fantastic jacket for (you guessed it!) layering. It’s also nice on it’s own in milder weather, like those early Spring days that will (hopefully) soon be poking their heads around the corner. Available at JCPenney for $64.
The ACTIVE PACKABLE JACKET is a full zip, color block patterned jacket that is ready for wind, rain, or snow- and is incredibly lightweight. It is part of the Perry Ellis 360 Performance Collection, and is finished with water-resistant fabric to keep the elements at bay. It also has performance stretch to keep you comfortable as you move about. Ready to take on the worst that nature can throw at you, it also thinks of the creature comforts we have come to desire- there is a headphone port in the shoulder, so you can access your music or phone anytime you’d like. We were surprised at how warm this very lightweight jacket was, as well as how comfortable. It’s a good jacket to travel with as well, as it takes up very little space. Available at PerryEllis.com for $185.
If you spend as much time running around town as you do exploring trails, take a look at the Kiwi Classic Thermic from Craghoppers. Waterproof on the outside with AquaDry materials to keep out the rain, sleet, and snow while keeping you snug and warm on the inside with plush, insulated lining. This coat is not only a good choice in winterwear, but one you will enjoy putting on. It has 7 pockets to keep all your belongings with you, which is helpful when you don’t necessarily want to carry out a backpack. This is a coat you will be glad you have in your closet. Available for $140 at https://www.craghoppers.com (on sale for $70 right now- there are site sales going on at the moment,it’s a great time to look around)
You’ll want to cover up your extremities in this weather, and some nice lightweight, easy to keep in the pockets of your coat are the Brooks Greenlight headband and gloves. These lightweight, stay in place items are perfect for activities like running, hiking, and more. The gloves come with tipped fingers so that you can use your phone, tablet, or other touchscreen without removing them. They also have pocket in the palm so that you can carry a key with you on your way, so you won’t need to weigh yourself down with extra bulk. They have a little magnet in the wrists that keep them together in your pocket or in your drawer. The headband stays in place, keeping your ears warm and hair in place as you run from place to place- literally or figuratively. There is also reflective writing on it so that you are more visible. Prices vary, $18 and up on http://www.brooksrunning.com
If you are heading out for a snowy weekend trip or family vacation, take a look at Dare 2b. They have fun and functional ski apparel for everyone in the family, and the colors are bright and unique. There are ski pants and jackets for men, women and kid’s. Not only is the ski wear eye catching, but it’s pretty comfortable as well. Waterproof and breathable, it has four way stretch fabric to help keep your range of motion as flexible as possible. The sleeves and knees are articulated, and the tapered seams and underarm ventilation give you breathability as you make another run. Maximum comfort, keeps you dry and warm (yet helps you stay cool if you start to build up a sweat from all your activity), and incredible range of motion, all with colors that are easy to spot. Prices vary, head to http://en.dare2b.com for more.
You look very ready!