FEBRUARY BARCODE: 2007-08 Editor's Choice

Jamey Voss, Gear Editor

PATAGONIA MICRO PUFF JACKET $215
[800.638.6464; patagonia.com]

On plane trips, I pack a storm shell and the Micro Puff, which compresses nicely in my BC pack. I bust it out to stay warm during pauses while touring (e.g., macro puff) and towning around after. It has the warm, soft feel of a puffy inside, yet a workwear-style outer to answer both needs.

SMITH I/O GOGGLE $160
SMITH VARIANT BRIM HELMET $150
[208.726.4477; smithoptics.com]

For me, changing goggle lenses inevitably leads to spitting and cursing, so in the past, I opted for carrying two frames in my pack. Lightening my load, Smith’s I/O goggle swaps lenses so easy I don’t even have to use my opposable thumbs. Integrated design with the amply vented Variant Brim helmet also makes inadvertent gaper gap a thing of the past.

HELLY HANSEN ELEVATE JACKET $400
 [253.735.7620; hellyhansen.com]

In my opinion, fat skis and the jacket-pant interface were the two best things to happen to powder skiing. Props to Helly Hansen for figuring out the latter, because nothing sucks worse than having your snow skirt up around your nipples during a yard sale. Check out the Elevate Pant ($300) to join forces with the jacket.

MOUNTAIN HARDWEAR HUCKSTER PACK $100
[800.953.8375; mountainhardwear.com]

If I’m out the gate, the Huckster is on my back. The simple and secure diagonal carry system quickly accommodates my über-fats with ease. Also, the outer-storage compartment works ideally for skins and shovel while the bigger compartment stays dry for extra goggles, hats, lunch, and camera.