Which colors will we see on the slopes this winter?
There will be an array of bright yellow, red, blue, orange and green color ways for both women and men. For women we will also see some berry and purple color ways. Deep ocean blue and ox blood – and beautiful burgundy – will play a crucial role as well as grey and khaki. Black is still popular as is white for women.
What styles and cuts are on-trend this winter?
We will see tighter cut ski pants that resemble skinny pants and are made of “mechanical stretch” or “4-way stretch with spandex” for better comfort. Jackets feature more versatile hybrid constructions that look good on the slope and in the city and are functional at the same time.
Are there any noteworthy innovations when it comes to technical functional clothing?
There are innovative solutions for the off-piste sector. Touring and backcountry skiing is the strongest growing sector in the ski market at the moment and we see a lot of new and advanced innovations from head to toe, including base layers, mid layers and outer layers. For example,Mission Pants von Black Diamond is a touring pant that is extremely ergonomic, features many details and has a padded external pocket for an avalanche beacon. In the mid layer sector Norrona’s Lyngen Alpha100 3/4 Pants are an insulated and extremely breathable pant and a true innovation. When it comes to base layers the newly developed, seamless underwear with moisture management and a specifically anatomical design is one of the highlights; for example Odlo’s Evolution Blackcomb Warm Underwear.
Photos:
Black Diamond
Black Diamond
Norrona
Norrona
Odlo
Odlo
Which kinds of materials are used?
There is a constant evolution but for me the most important features are: low weight for ski touring; robust; thermo-regulated; great moisture management and flexibility. Waterproof down jackets are on the up and so are insulated constructions with waterproof and taped seams instead of traditional seams.
Sustainability and functional clothing: Are there any innovations or trends when it comes to the manufacturing of ski and snowboard outfits?
There are products that are completely made of polyester or nylon and can be recycled. These jackets are partly made of recycled materials. Then there is a new coloring method that doesn’t use water. The Dyedron Jacket by Peak Performance is made using this technique. But the most important trend is still ‘built to resist’ as a product with a long life cycle is still the most eco-friendly product.
Photos:
peak-performance-dyedron-jacket_13122_43365
Peak Performance, Dyedron Jacket
Which outfit should I not be wearing on the slopes this winter?
This is a difficult question as everyone has different taste. I would say that broken clothing should be left at home.
What are your personal favorites for this winter?
My three top brands for this season are Black Diamond, Peak Performance and Descente Allterrain.
And why?
Because they offer superior style and function.
