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As most locals will tell you, our mountain springtime seems to be in a class of its own. Warm, sunny afternoons can bring on the spring fever, flip-flops, and tank tops. All is well and good until a matter of hours can have us reaching for our snow boots and down jackets. It is an unpredictable mixed bag. However, no matter the mood swings that spring brings, it’s safe to say that warmer climes are on the horizon. Below are some new pieces I recommend as we enter this time of transition.
1. Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoodie
While spring weather encourages us to put away our big-hitter-down jackets, it’s not quite time to eliminate the insulator. The SuperStrand hoodie has been a recent favorite of mine for its extremely light weight, packability, and versatility. Constructed of synthetic down, the hoodie weighs a mere 10 ounces and holds its own as a stand-alone piece or for layering. It’s also extremely soft at the touch, so you don’t feel clammy when wearing it next to the skin, say with only a t-shirt underneath. The synthetic insulation has the same properties as 700-800-fill down but retains warm-when-wet performance in case you get caught in a spring downpour. Available in women’s and men’s styles including a wide variety of spring colors.
$235, OutdoorResearch.com
1. Pendleton Tucson Rain Boots
One thing that spring in the mountains can guarantee is muck and mud. As all that prayed-for snow melts, the mud season moniker proves true. With all the boots in my rotation, I find myself reaching for burly rubber the most during this time. The Tucson boots from Pendleton might be my favorite spring-season boots yet. Far from your grandma’s galoshes of old, these function with a bit of fashion. Classic Pendleton designs adorn the outside and even the edge of the raised heel. Fully waterproof with non-slip, cushioned soles, pull tabs are included on the sides and breathable linings round out a fully functional boot for the spring mess. $130, Pendleton-usa.com
3. DUER Performance Denim Shirt
Spring is a time to set aside that heavy winter flannel for lighter duds. This classic denim buttondown from plant-based company DUER is meant to transition easily from the bike to the boardroom. Made with lightweight and breathable fabric, the shirt has a trim fit through the chest and straight to the hem. The built-in stretch makes if feel more comfortable than its sophisticated profile would seem, and performance fibers add an element of odor control and moisture wicking in the case of a sweaty bike ride into town. I recently got this shirt for my dad and he wears it at least twice a week. $119, ShopDuer.com
4. Ibex Nomad Jogger
Merino giant, Ibex, has hit the mark again with their super-comfortable Nomad joggers. Made with 95% merino wool from Australia and 5% elastane, these pants make for a versatile, lightweight alternative to the traditional cotton jogger. To increase comfort, Ibex used the design of traditionally constructed French Terry, but with merino instead. The price is a little salty, but they’re worth it for the increased function of hearty durability, odor control, and temperature regulation. Available in women’s and men’s sizes and colors. $170, Ibex.com
5. ChappyWrap Blanket
All those unpredictable temperatures that inevitably come with spring mean I never travel far without a blanket in tow. My latest favorite blanket discovery is ChappyWrap. Made in Germany from a blend of cotton, acrylic, and polyester, the blend allows for repeated washing without losing its cozy, comfortable touch. I was skeptical about this since in my experience most soft blankets lose their plushness after washing, but I’ve washed mine a few times and it still feels like new. Resistant to pilling, shrinking, and static, their blankets are Jacquard-woven so that the cotton is on the outer side of the fiber with its fill contents spun on the inside. This, along with a hand-sewn binding increases durability. Available in countless sizes, patterns, and colors. $150, ChappyWrap.com
6. Brooks Notch Thermal Hoodie 2.0
It can be tough in the spring to find trails dry enough to approach, so I often take long walks on some of the wonderful paved options here in town like the Rio Grande Trail. Even though the temps are rising, layering is still key, and this hoodie from Brooks has been a go-to. Thermal and backed with a soft, ribbed fleece, it’s odor-resistant and sweat-wicking for differing levels of exertion. With its low profile, it’s easy to tie around your waist for when you warm up and is a great staple for running, walking, and hiking. Available in women’s and men’s sizes. $98, BrooksRunning.com
Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer, and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.
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