Clothing Reviews

In the Sierra's mostly-dry climate, I almost never wear a shell. For that reason, I love North Face's ultralight Verto Jacket which vanishes when you don't need it. Marmot's Nano is a top pick when you need a true hard shell. Alpine skiing picks are the Genesis, the Apex Bionic, and the Venture Jackets. For fleece the Miwok is light, warm and comfortable; the windproof R4 is my choice for Alpine skiing. The 11-ounce Marmot PreCip is my do-it-all hardshell pant. Don't forget to check out the SmartWool Microweight Crew for a base layer.

Hats

Shirts

Fleece

For fleecewear, the North Face Miwok is light, warm and comfortable; the windproof Patagonia R4 is my choice for Alpine (that is, lift-served) skiing—I find the R4 can replace a hard or soft shell in a wide range of conditions.

Jackets

Come Spring in the Sierra's mostly-dry climate, I almost never wear a shell. For that reason, I love the ultralight Marmot Nano, the sadly-discontinued Triumph Anorak, or even the plain Nylon GoLite Ether. Carry one as insurance whatever the forecast says. When storms are brewing, upgrade to heavier shells like Marmot's Genesis, or North Face's Apex Bionic or Venture Jackets.

Pants & Bottoms

Vests

Gloves

Socks