Snow has not been dumping on our playgrounds in Colorado. Another drought year could be ahead. But that’s not enough to discourage a WildSnow Girl. We’ll keep our chins up and our planks tuned (and the base welder handy). And when the forecast predicts yet another dry week ahead, we’ll stay optimistic by making sure our closets are pow pow ready. A new contender for hanger space gets high points from the style police. La Sportiva enters the line-up with a selection of Italian tailored technical ski apparel. Oohh la la! Even a cute cowboy at our local hook and bullet shop noticed something was exceptional and complimented me on the handsomely quilted bodice of my Estela Primaloft jacket.
The stylish Azura pants with articulated knees and removable suspenders made with soft shell 'SuperFabric,' a durable, flexible and lightweight fabric. Indeed, the fabric has a luxurious feel, comfortable stretch and is windproof and water resistant -- a nice package. Velcro tabs inside the waistband allow you to snug it up for a streamlined fit, or loosen it for comfort after that second piece of strudel.
Even though we don’t have much snow, it’s been cold enough to provide more challenging test environments than just aisles of rawhide and blue steel. We’ve been skinning up our local ski mountains. Dressing so you’re comfortable sweating while temps are dipping to the single digits is always tricky. Layering is the answer but finding the right combo takes some work. By partnering with Gore Windstopper and Primaloft, La Sportiva offers a solution by developing a layering system that provides insulation, ventilation and overall protection. I picked three of their pieces to try out: the Estella Primaloft jacket, the Avail hoody and the Azura soft shell pants.
The soft shell fabric breathes well and the fishnet side zip gives extra ventilation. Boys, get your attention where it should be; she's only a manikin. Indeed, Lou says that derriere is a bit over the top, and perhaps we need another WildSnow modification?
Generous pant cuff easily goes over boots.
Integrated gaiters have two snaps and velcro to accommodate various widths of boots. Outside cuff protection is provided by abrasion resistant material.
The Estela Primaloft jacket. Low profile, low bulk hood fits under a helmet. Bungee pull in the back gathers up slack. The feature I like best is the high collar which zips up in front like a built in balaclava. Collar and two exterior pockets are lined with a soft, brushed fleece for warmth. Three interior pockets: mp3 pocket, zipped stuff sack pocket and large mesh pocket.
Hopefully soon this ski rack will be full and I'll be smiling while big snow flakes fall down on my face.
And lastly, a girl has to finish off her ski outfit with the latest cute hat. The Dorado Beanie is the hip finale to my ensemble. The large pom pom puts me right in there with all the stylish Italian beauties, dodging endless “Ciao bella!” cat calls. The pom pom is a bit cumbersome under the hood, but hey, how can it be fashion if you don’t suffer a bit?
Buy La Sportiva here.
WildSnow Girl, Lisa Dawson, is the luckiest girl in the world. Also known as Mrs. WildSnow.com, she tests whatever gear she wants. She gives the WildSnow family of websites the feminine voice.
