In a freak slalom incident Saturday, I broke the index finger on my right hand - without even falling down. It's the only broken bone for me in over 50 years of skiing and racing (including a few trips down the Hahnenkamm Streif) - so I'm a hard one to convince that skiing is a risky sport. It's all in how you approach it. But that's not what I sat down to write about today.

 

What's bothering me is that I can't get out and ski in today's "real winter" weather. Yes, it's zero-ish and snowing sideways, which for some reason tweaks the "extreme adventure" side of my psyche. It's kind of like having my shot at the summit of Everest without having to endure the long plane ride to Nepal. But to be honest, with today's technical ski garb, venturing out in this really doesn't put a body in any kind of discomfort - if you're outfitted correctly . . .  

 

As you see from  the photo I shot from my bedroom window this morning, today's brand of winter is the serious brand. 

 

You need to be windproof, well insulated, and sealed up around the gaps - meaning you will need garments that are designed for the purpose. They will have a tall snug fitting collar, a built-in powder skirt, and sleeve and pant cuffs which seal out snow and cold air. On a day like today, choose a full coverage helmet (for the warmth, not just for the protection), and outer garments or inner layers which use goose down for insulation. There is nothing like the insulating power of down because, aside from its incredible warmth, it is as light as air and doesn't restrict your movements. [continues below]

 

 

So stop by Boyne Country Sports and check out the technical clothing from Volkl, DNA, The North Face, Burton, Volcom, Marmot, and others. Make sure the sales adviser understands your needs. With the right stuff, you will weather-proof all your future ski vacations.