There’s no denying we belong in the mountains, but with things as uncertain as they are, our spiritual home remains tantalisingly out of reach. But luckily for you, there’s more to your winter gear than just the slopes – and many ways to get the most out of it, wherever this winter takes you. Here’s some expert advice from Snow+Rock to help maximise your gear and keep it in its best condition for all your winter adventures to come.

Insulated Jackets and Gilets

They’re a cornerstone for any trip to the winter resorts, but your insulated jacket is capable of a lot more than just keeping you warm and looking great in the mountains. As a mid-layer under a waterproof shell, it will also provide essential warmth on tough winter hikes in the hills or at the end of a cold belay on a local crag. Narrow-baffle styles in particular are just as at home in the city as they are at altitude, and if you take care of your jacket, are durable enough to do both season after season. Or, if your winter season takes you no further than the outside seating area of your local pub, you can do so safe in the knowledge you’ll be shiver-free all evening.

Shop men’s insulated jackets and gilets/Shop women’s insulated jackets and gilets

Base Layers

Whilst vital for protecting your core temperature and wicking away sweat during your high-exertion adventures in the snow, base layers are a solid choice off-piste too. Ideal for pretty much any activity you can imagine, all year round, their versatility will take you from time spent in high altitude environments, days out walking in the hills, everyday exercise in the city, to simply lounging around the house. A quality base layer will likely be the most comfortable bit of gear you own, making it the perfect go-to item for homeworking too – and there’s plenty of that around right now. What’s more, their odour absorbing fibres mean you can go for days without having to even think about washing it – we’d call that a win.

Shop men’s base layers/Shop women’s base layers

Knitwear

One of the best things about winter is the chance to crack out some seriously cosy and stylish knitwear. When we’re done adventuring for the day there’s no better feeling than pulling on a snug-fitting, great-looking knit. Whether you’re heading into the city, hanging out with mates, or relaxing around a roaring garden fire pit enjoying some winter stargazing, a great piece of knitwear feels like a warm, friendly arm around your shoulder. If there is an upside to having a lack of time on the slopes this winter, we reckon the chance it affords to wear more knitwear, more often, might just be it.

Shop men’s knitwear/Shop women’s knitwear

Repair and Care

Whether or not you get to strap on your skis this year, it’s important to keep your gear in good condition so you get the most out of it when the slopes are ready for us again.

Professionally cleaning and reproofing your ski jacket will restore its waterproof performance and extend its lifespan – a money-savvy and planet-friendly move. Your skis and boards also need regular TLC to stay performing at their very best, and that’s where we come in. Snow+Rock’s ski and snowboard service workshops have options to suit all equipment at every stage of the season – check out our servicing guide and recommended service schedule here.

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