For active travelers who want to pack light yet be properly prepared, it can be a challenge deciding what clothing and footwear to bring – especially if you’re only taking a carry-on.
While it’s fairly easy to pack for warmer climates, trips where you might ski, snowshoe, ice-skate or dogsled require exceptionally smart packing. I’ve tried lots of different brands of outdoor clothing over the years, and Columbia Sportswear is by far my favourite. Not only are their products functional and durable, but also stylish. No matter what you need, they’ve got you covered. Literally.
The Women’s Platinum Plus 860 TurboDown hooded jacket is outfitted with a combination of traditional goose down and Omni-Heat synthetic insulation. Add to that a reflective lining that retains heat and water-resistant shell that repels moisture and you’ve got the ultimate outdoor outerwear for cold temperatures. It weighs only .48 kg and compresses minimally for any suitcase or backpack. Best of all, the active fit moves with your body, and drop tail keeps your backside toasty, too.
Big bulky boots are always a bane to pack – and too hot to wear in airports. The Women’s Minx Shorty boots are low-cut and easy to stash in a carry-on, weighing in at only .74 kg for the pair. Because they utilize Columbia’s reflective lining, and sport thick contoured foot-beds that cushion your feet from the freezing ground, they are rated to climates as low as -32 C. And after a winter hike, the faux fur collar adds a fashionable touch nice enough to let you stroll into any restaurant.
The Women’s Conspiracy Razor Outdry is a multi-sport hiker with advanced rubber traction to tackle all terrain. Laminate technology gives them a breathable mesh upper, yet makes they absolutely waterproof. This I know for sure, because I accidentally stepped into a creek – right up to the laces – and my feet remained completely (surprisingly!) dry. The pair weighs only .50 kg, yet are stable and versatile. I was able to go from hiking mountain trails, to scaling rocks near a waterfall, to jogging on concrete, all on the same weekend, in the same shoes.
I should also mention that I wear orthotics in most of my footwear, and both the Minx boots and Razor hikers have removable foot-beds. So for people who need (or like) to use their own inserts, but don’t want to compromise style and functionality, these easily surpass the test.
When it comes to travel clothing for cold-weather, you need a few quality multipurpose layers. I’m absolutely hooked on the Luminescence Spacedye leggings from Columbia’s Adera Collection. They are made from four-way stretch fabric that are ultra-comfortable, and make you feel good. The high-performance wicking is perfect for activities, then throw on a long top, add a few accessories, and be ready to tackle an evening out.
After your busy outdoor day, the leggings make cozy pajama bottoms, too. Pair them with the Women’s Spacedye Hoodie, or Inner Luminosity Hoodie, and transition in style to sitting around the campfire, or curling up next to the fireplace. No matter what flame you choose, you’ll appreciate the added comfort and warmth from these super cool layers.
Added bonus? You’ll look stylish, too.
