ThisNext Blog

When braving the elements on a blustery day, you need to bundle up in the best winter apparel around. To keep the cold out while you ski, snowboard, or sled, turn to the geniuses at Patagonia, a company that’s earned the trust of many ThisNext outdoor adventurists. Especially appealing the eco-conscious, Patagonia helps protect the planet by using Earth-friendly materials in their attire and giving back to environmental organizations. In fact, says Alison Gannett, the company “donates 1% of sales to 350 grassroot non-profits, for a total of about 2.5 million a year!”

A skier, Alison dons Patagonia’s Micro Puff Jacket on the slopes and beyond. “I use this synthetic insulation jacket for everything - skiing, climbing, shopping, rain coat, warm insulation in super cold climates - and it packs into my hand and feels like you are wearing air,” she says. John Johnston is also mad for Mirco Puff, preferring the Pullover style of this soft and superlight attire. “It’s my first down jacket and I can’t believe I waited so long,” says John.

Another down design, John Stamstad’s favorite Patagonia pick is stuffed with 700-fill European Goose feathers to seal in warmth. “If I could only have one jacket this would be it,” says John of the product, which features hand warmer pockets for when you need to thaw out your paws.

For other ThisNexters, it’s all about the fleece. “Fleece is my favorite fabric - I live in it during the winter,” write John and Rose in recommending the Patagonia Synchilla Fleece. “So warm, so comfortable, so durable, so…everything!” Alex Lee is sweet on the Synchilla as well, pointing out that the “high performance” piece “addresses heavy users’ needs with the right attitude.” Lynn Kennan, meanwhile, considers the “light, fuzzy and functional” Women’s R3 Jacket to be the “best under-layering fleece ever.” And those who like to go green should choose the Women’s Fleece/Insulation number selected by Freya Bardell: “Post consumer recycled fleece and it’s so soft,” our shopcaster swoons.

If you’re seeking maximum warmth, look to axuwool - the wool and stretch-polyester blend guarantees to keep you from shivering on even the chilliest of winter days. Alpinist Marko Prezelj suggests the Patagonia Axuwool Long Sleeved Zip-T, since it’s so “warm and simple.”

Patagonia’s Granular jackets are another great option for your winter excursion: Wind-resistant and highly durable, the heat-efficient fabric wicks sweat away to leave you comfy and dry. “Warm enough to not feel naked on the bivy ledge, yet, unzippable,” says Bean Bowers of the R1 Granular Jacket. “Zip up the hoodie in the full-on spindrift and you got a balaclava… versatile!” Laura Cestone also digs the R1 Granular, which she deems “great for early beach mornings, and dog walks.” Also a smart beach choice, the Jetstream Jacket is adored by Belinda Baggs. “Long days at the beach and unpredictable weather…this jacket is light and packable,” she says. “It has saved me more than once.”