Winter

Climbing skins, avalanche transceivers, GORE-TEX shells, essential accessories...understanding industry jargon can sometimes be a challenge, especially if you're shopping for a backcountry enthusiast or snowboarder with distinctive tastes. Fortunately, our own team of ski and snowboard enthusiasts has put together a selection of the best products to perform, ride with style, and stay safe. Discover the best gifts for skiers and snowboarders, all available at Altitude Sports. The Best Skiing & Snowboarding Gifts for Winter 2023 Our collection of downhill and backcountry gifts for skiers and snowboarders is equipped with the latest technology. Our selection, meticulously chosen by our snow

As we know, winter is generally colder than the rest of the seasons depending on the climate where you are living so adequate gear is imperative. Due to the more extreme temperatures, proper gear is essential for not only your comfort but for your safety too, (and of course to ensure your experience is exceptional) so make sure you’re picking the right pair of winter boots with the help of this winter boot guide. ShoeChaussureBagSacTentTente Best overall winter boot Sorel’s Caribou Winter Boots for men are timeless classics that will keep you warm and dry from zero to 32 below. The removable 9mm recycled

The Canadian coat connoisseur knows exactly what it takes to integrate arctic-level performance with stylish city outerwear. Your next Canada Goose coat is an investment and should be treated that way. Before you purchase your parka, have a look at the best Canada Goose parkas for men or women, and accessories for 2023.OverviewCountless individuals cherish their Canada Goose parka, particularly at -25 degrees C, escaping unharmed and unfazed due to powerful insulating properties. Ensure your environment is appropriate for a Canada Goose jacket.Down is the natural insulator used in Canada Goose jackets. While down is light and warm, it becomes ineffective

When you’re cycling in winter, your primary concern is to stay dry and warm. Modern brands design cycling jackets to keep you comfortable with modern synthetic fabrics that insulate and waterproof. They also feature excellent reflective zippers and convenient pockets for storing additional layers. We reviewed the best winter cycling jackets, and found the best overall winter cycling jacket with the most impressive features like waterproofing and breathability to be the Castelli Alpha RoS 2 Jacket. Breathable microporous membrane fabrics such as Gore-Tex prevent rainwater from getting in but allow moisture (read: sweat) to get out. These days, there is

When deep cold strikes, your regular gloves or mittens might not cut it against the freeze. Extremities get numb and nothing is worse than cold hands and cold fingers, especially out on the ski slopes or scaling an icy mountain. Fortunately in the never-ending world of innovative outdoor products, there are electric heated gloves - the digit-warmers of today and the future.1. Best heated gloves overall2. Best heated mitts overall3. Best budget heated gloves or mitts4. Best heated work gloves5. Best heated ski gloves6. Best thin heated gloves7. Best heated fatbiking gloves ShoeChaussureBagSacTentTente Best heated Gloves & Mitts, Reviewed Product

It can get cold in the resort. We know that and the brands that specialize in downhill skiing know that too. With so many collections and products designed to keep you warm and protected from the wind on the lift, there's really no reason to spend head to the chalet early.Winter weather is unpredictable, and that's even truer in the mountains. If the bright sun is warming the air when you make your first runs, that doesn't mean the wind won't pick up when you get back from lunch. So pack an extra pair of gloves and socks, and layer

Wednesday morning, 7:15 AM. The sun struggles to break through the clouds scattered here and there in the dawn sky. In just a few minutes, over to the east, it'll suddenly set the horizon ablaze, and I'll be able to turn off the headlamp lighting my way along the cross country ski trail. In less than two hours, I'll be back at work, at home in front of my computer. What makes a sane person leave the warmth of their bed so early, brave the biting cold, all to to get lost in the woods at this time of night

Your friends hit the downhill slopes every weekend, but have you always wanted to try cross-country? You're not alone—cross country skiing is booming in 2022! Cross-country skiing is one of the best ways to keep fit in winter. It's a cardio activity, but it's also quite peaceful (imagine skiing through the woods!) and suitable for the whole family. And with the right cross-country ski clothing, it's easier than you might think.While it often costs hundreds of dollars to buy new downhill ski equipment, cross-country ski equipment and clothing is much more affordable. However, it's not always easy to know how

Gaspésie National Park Cross-country skiing is one of the best ways to enjoy Quebec winters while staying in shape during the coldest months of the year.As we enter 2022, the reality of the world around us is still a bit different from previous years. And it seems like everyone has now taken up an outdoor activity. While this craze is certainly something to celebrate, the crowds at some once nearly-deserted areas can be discouraging for some. So we'd like to introduce you to our favourite options, some more well-known than others, for cross-country skiing (and its cousin: nordic skiing!) in

If you’ve been on the hunt for a puffy midlayer that’s both affordable and versatile, chances are you’ve already stumbled on the Arc’teryx Thorium AR. It’s a puff jacket highly prized for its flexibility across a broad range of activities and climates. It’s also insulated with European down, making it warm, packable, and ethical. But before you settle for the Thorium AR, we’ve rounded up some impressive alternatives that might make you reconsider. In this article, we look at three midweight midlayers that give the Thorium AR a run for its money, including: Alternative 1: Black Diamond - Access Down

Winter is coming, and it’s time to prepare your wardrobe. In this article, we review the venerated Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoody alongside five of its most outstanding alternatives. Discover how well each of these softshells fare across three key metrics: build, performance, and price. On the menu today, we’ve got the: Alternative 1: Mammut - Eigerjoch Advanced IN Hooded Jacket Alternative 2: Rab - Microlight Alpine Jacket Alternative 3: Mountain Hardwear - Ghost Whisperer/2 Hoody Alternative 4: Norrøna - Falketind Down 750 Hood Alternative 5: Peak Performance - Helium Hood Jacket Although all of these can be used as a

Sure, scaling Mt. Everest and dog-sledding across Antarctica require some seriously warm jackets. But even winter in the city can leave you shivering, wet, and cursing the gods. So, with sub-zero temperatures right around the corner, it’s time to review the best urban winter parkas on the market. Discover how each of them stacks up across three key metrics: build, performance, and price. Today, we’ll be reviewing the: Alternative 1: Haglöfs - Mörkret GTX Down Parka Alternative 2: The North Face - Expedition Arctic Parka Alternative 3: Helly Hansen - Arctic Patrol Parka Alternative 4: Kanuk - Malex Parka Alternative

The number one thing every skier - you included - wants to avoid is icy fingers on the mountain. To keep your fingers warm and dry, you’ll need waterproof hand protection. Though all ski gloves may seem relatively similar, there are significant differences in comfort, features, and design. There are also considerations such as your preference for gloves or mitts, leather or softshell, and heavy-duty or ultrathin builds. We’ll admit it: there are technical challenges in choosing the best ski gloves. But Altitude Sports has you covered with this round-up of the best ski gloves for 2022. After extensive review,

The mountains covered with snow makes for happy skiers and snowboarders. But we're here to make sure no child gets left behind. While you peruse the best ski jackets and snowboard apparel, turn your thoughts to your little ones. After all, they want to play too, and you'll delight in passing down tips and tricks as your kids progress.  Taking on the mountain requires wearing the right apparel for everyone, so let's get into the best ski jackets for kids. From boots to ski pants, socks, sweaters and mittens, bundling up the right way makes all the difference. Whether they're

Besides your skis or snowboard, a helmet is the most important piece of gear. A head-injury sustained while speeding down a mountainside can result in a life-changing (or even life-ending) injury. That said, much of the risk can be mitigated by choosing the right helmet. Every year, helmet technologies improve, maximizing durability, ventilation, and protection, while minimizing weight. Plus, many of today’s styles, finishes, and colors elevate the helmet to the status of fashion accessory. Though it goes without saying, all outdoor adventures involve some degree of risk. But don’t take unnecessary ones—because you never know what’s lurking beneath the fresh

Winter is here and the slopes are buzzing with winter spirit and rosy cheeks. Epic snowstorm or not, a great day in the mountains begins with the right gear. While your snow pants and jacket, gloves and additional equipment are key, knowing how to choose the right goggles can make or break your day.We can all agree that the mirrored, black tinted lenses may look ultra badass but sadly, they aren't ideal for all weather conditions. When it comes to goggles, it is important to shop for comfort and functionality as opposed to style because being able to see your line while

Skiing with family or friends at your local resort is fun, but nothing compares to discovering new mountains. I've traveled to France, Western Canada, the Gaspé Peninsula and Japan in search of powder, so I know a little about ski travel. Whether you're heading to the Rockies, the Chic-Chocs or overseas, make sure you don't forget anything with our ski trip packing list. Essentials Duffel Bag Outer layer: Ski Jacket & Pants Base Layers: Top, Bottom & Ski Socks Mid Layer Ski Goggles Gloves, Mittens & Neckwarmers Ski Helmet Ski Backpack Skis, Ski Boots & Ski Poles The often-forgotten items

Arc’teryx is known for producing some of the most durable and dependable outerwear on the market. Their success is a combination of exceptional design philosophy and cutting-edge technical innovation. The pinnacle of this combo comes in the form of the highly coveted Alpha SV.The Alpha SV is neither average nor an everyday hardshell. In fact, the SV was designed with rock climbing, ice climbing, alpine climbing, and Big Wilderness expeditions in mind. So, yeah—it’s quite the beast. But is it the beast? To find out, we’ve narrowed down our search to three alpine hardshells that hold their own across three

What are ski bindings for and how do they work?When we think about our ski equipment, we often forget an essential element: the bindings. Skis don't just magically attach to your boots. It is the bindings that do the job of keeping you firmly anchored to your skis. Bindings are made up of two sections: the toe at the front, and the heel piece at the back. They also have springs that hold your boot in place, which are also designed to allow the boot to be released in case of a fall. The elasticity and release force required to free

The search for the perfect pair of ski goggles needs to take in one important aspect: fog. Although most goggles on the market nowadays are treated with an anti-fog coating, there are instances where your goggle lenses can become foggy. Understanding why your goggles are fogging up will help to prevent it from happening more often. Below we offer a few tips and some problem-solving techniques which may shine a light on your foggy goggle disaster. Yes, goggle defects do occur but user error is the most common culprit.Goggles fogging explainedFoggy goggles management tricks :Do not tuck your face mask

Can you imagine wearing the same jersey on a summer hike as you would on a ski trip to the world's highest mountains? If that sounds far-fetched, Merino wool promises exactly that type of versatility. Softness, warmth, odour and moisture resistance and more, the wonder fibre is making a big splash in the outdoor world. It is one of the best performing fibres on the market. what is merino wool? A quick look at the science checks out. Merino wool is made up of proteins like amino acids and other natural compounds. The very biology of the wool gives it

Like many, I'm relatively new to backcountry skiing, a discipline that was once reserved for the most daring and motivated.Over the past few years, backcountry skiing has become so popular that many ski resorts now offer access to backcountry trails that allow skiers to leave the chairlift behind and put their legs to work.The idea is not so far-fetched when you think of the benefits of this sport for those who enjoy it: it allows you to stay active during the cold season, avoid line-ups at the lifts and save your hard-earned money, since the cost of accessing the slopes

Bindings transmit energy between the boots and the snowboard: each movement passes systematically through this essential piece of equipment. Bindings that are adapted to your riding style will provide you with more control, precision, and comfort.Here are the main elements to consider when choosing snowboard bindings:Binding compatibility with your snowboard Flex and riding styleTypes of binding systemsTechnical features1. Choosing bindings that are compatible with your snowboard The first thing to consider is your bindings’ compatibility with your snowboard’s installation system, as well as the snowboard bindings size compared to the size of the board.Installation system compatibilityFirst, figure out what kind of installation

In order to maximize your fun on your snowboard, you need to find the snowboard boot type that best suits your riding style. Just like choosing a snowboard,  determining your preferences as a snowboarder makes for a consistent choice.The boots are the connection between the body and the snowboard. It is therefore essential to choose boots in which you can feel everything under your feet and on the snow. Again, it's all a matter of personal preference. The following are the main factors to consider when choosing your snowboard boots:Find the right boot sizeSelect a model according to your budgetChoose your

When buying ski boots, it' s critical to try them on before settling on a pair. If you choose to buy ski boots online, make sure you choose a retailer that allows you to wear your boots at home for at least a few hours before deciding if they are right for you. Good thing Altitude Sports has a 90-day return policy. That's plenty of time to test your new boots before the ski season starts! But that doesn't mean you have to make a blind guess. Before deciding on a new pair of ski boots, it's important to measure

If there is one reason to be excited for winter, it is the start of the ski season! To enjoy the slopes, however, you need the right equipment. After selecting your ski boots and bindings, you'll need to choose the right pair of skis to go along with them. Let's explore the different criteria to consider in order to make the purchase of your new companions easier - and choose the right skis for your needs.Whether it's your first pair of skis or not, buying skis is a big deal! There are a multitude of models and types of skis

There are many elements to consider when choosing a snowboard. It’s important to ask yourself the right questions before you buy. Hopefully, this article will help you to better understand the choices you have to make.It helps to have a funnel-like mindset so you can close in on the important parameters and select THE board: the one that will enable you to progress as a boarder while having a blast on the hills. Each of the following sections should help you narrow down your choice.Choosing your board according to your technical skill levelPreferred terrain and riding styleWhat size snowboard you

A weekend out in the woods at the cottage is a golden opportunity to get out and do some winter activities. All it takes is a snowman and a crazy carpet to turn you into a kid again. And proper winter clothes like boots, mitts, jackets, pants and the rest let you take full advantage. It's fun outdoors—but equally fun hibernating inside. For those so inclined (like yours truly), I've put together a list of my essentials for a cozy cabin life. Cozy Nest Essentials The first thing to do once at the cabin is to settle in. Unpack the

They’ve become a regular sight over the past few years, moving from high-altitude expeditions to fashion-savvy streetwear. There’s simply no doubt that the puffer jacket is here to stay. And no wonder—with toasty insulation, flattering fits, and ultralight construction, it’s everything you could ask for this winter season. Our best overall favourite for 2023-2024 is the The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket. This puffer combines exceptional style and unparalleled functionality. Its heat-trapping features, in conjunction with a beautiful silhouette, are perfect for battling ice-cold temperatures in iconic style. ShoeChaussureBagSacTentTente All Time favourite puffer jacket The beautifully designed, classic 1996

" Fantastic Weather Protection with a Smart Design " When you’re facing harsh winter elements, you want the appropriate armour to protect you. Norrøna, a Norwegian brand known for its high-performance hard shells, is worn by pro athletes and casual skiers alike. Their Lofoten collection is named after the Lofoten islands in Norway, a frigid coastal region with frequent rain and snow. Today, we’re reviewing the Norrøna Lofoten Gore-Tex Jacket, a 2-layer shell with Primaloft insulation and vents for temperature control. We put this jacket to the test and were impressed with its durability, weatherproofing, and ski-ready features. Below is

Cross-country skiing may look slow-motion to those used to the speed of downhill, but in fact it’s a tranquil way to get outside and exercise - and far more demanding physically than you might think. What’s more, it’s widely accessible, with low-cost gear and trails that anyone can reach by public transportation. In The Cross Country Skiing Beginner’s Guide, our own Stéphanie Major shares her best tips and opens up about how cross country skiing helps her with seasonal depression. With many favourite activities cancelled or postponed due to COVID, and people getting more sedentary in winter anyways, there’s never been

Whether you’re a complete beginner or have been cross-country skiing for years, Calgary is an excellent place to explore on skis. With beautiful aspen-lined trails and sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains, cross-country skiing in Calgary is nothing short of exciting. Beginners can check our The Cross Country Skiing Beginner’s Guide to get started, then pop on over to our What To Wear Cross-country Skiing blog before you go.This guide to the city’s best cross-country ski spots includes parks and courses in town, as well as areas that make for a fun day trip not far outside of town. Beginner,