I am going to Telluride in January, which is quite possibly going to be the coldest place I have ever been. We're planning some skiing/sledding/snowangel action. I need some snow pants and some sort of waterproof jacket. I don't care how long they last, because I tend to go skiing about once every 5 years or so. My local sports-supply store is full of very mannish, horribly unflattering things. I don't want to spend tons, though. Does anyone have any suggestions?
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"We live in an age where unnecessary things are our only necessities." --Oscar Wilde
i have several different items that i've bought for skiing off of ebay for a great price. however, we are sliding into colder weather so i don't know if that will hold true for you.
i've bought some cute leggings and ski pants by spyder (?). the reason for the question mark is because i'm on the road and can't go to my closet to find the exact brand name for you! however, they do have a lotus flower on them, usually on the waistband. i think my leggings have it on the leg.
Try Patagonia. Their stuff is a little different and the company has a good philosophy. There's also Ibex, which has a slimmer fit. And Nikita, which a lot of snowboarders wear (I think - a friend of mine is a ski bum/waitress in telluride, and that's her jacket). I don't personally like North Face very much because it's cut VERY boxy and seems to be really unflattering. Also, I don't think their fabrics are that great. Although, their fleeces are probably the highest quality, but I'm too cold blooded to wear just a fleece in winter. Have fun, btw, that sounds really fun!
As far as cuteness factor, I like Roxy. I only go snowboarding every once in a while, but my Roxy gear has held up quite well for about 4 years. Granted, the quality probably doesn't compare to North Face or the like, but their stuff is really cute. It's kept me warm an dry... I'm a fan.
FWIW, I've actually not had good luck with Columbia quality-wise, which sucks because they're not cheap! The fabrics just do not hold up to even the most gentle washing - major pilling, fading, shrinking, shedding .... so I anti-recommend!
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To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment ~ {Ralph Waldo Emerson}
First, I pm'd you because i will be in Telluride in January as well.
Try this site: http://www.usoutdoorstore.com/ They have a nice selection of Burton, Roxy and other brands. http://www.altrec.com/ is another source. Also search for discount ski/snowboard wear websites. You can get some great deals that way.
The hard part about mail order is sizing. I'm petite and found it very difficult to find pants that fit me so you may want to check sources in your area.
Try and buy something insulated w/a lining if you can. Telluride is super cold so you will need lots of layers.
Lastly, if you can, borrow some of your ski wear (pants, jacket, liners, goggles, helmet...) since you dont ski that often.
thanks guys! I will check into all of those recs. I also just remembered that my stepmom has a ski jumper that fits her pretty well -- I may be able to borrow it. I am excited to see real snow!
Here's a dumb question -- I have one of those frost-free puffy coats from Old Navy from awhile back. I have worn it on ski trips before, but only in-state (30-40 degree weather). It won't be warm enough, right?
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"We live in an age where unnecessary things are our only necessities." --Oscar Wilde