Patagonia Primo Down Jacket

Starting at age four, I traveled with my sisters and parents to Powderhorn for a small ski break with three other families.  It’s one thing from childhood I remember most fondly, maybe because vacationing with friends wasn’t something many did. I recognized the novelty and reveled in it. Skipping school wasn't routine either, and I recall a slight satisfaction in getting to have this fun experience on an ordinary February weekend that none of my classmates could comprehend.

The first few years we lodged at ramshackle chalets, but eventually the majestic Bear Necessities became our tradition. It was a ski-in/ski-out, sprawling house full of carved-wood grizzlies where we came and went as we pleased, free from grown-ups' guidance in this frosty bubble before granted the same independence at home. We started the days eating Mickey Mouse waffles at the grand breakfast bar and, after wearing out our legs on the runs, ended them with group dinners and raucous rounds of dominos. 

With my older sister, pre-poles. Note the neck warmer. 

The sentimental associations call me back to the slopes as much as the thrill of the sport. I haven’t been on skis in recent years, but have plans to change that in early 2013.  While I expect my slalom skill remains, I’ve long outgrown clothing appropriate for a day on icy terrain.

Of all winter-weather gear, the coat is most crucial. You can get away with layers of leggings and everyday head & hand accessories, but plunging downhill in a peacoat or calf-length puffer would be incurably awkward.

The Primo Down jacket is Patagonia’s paramount barrier against damp and frigidly-cold conditions. European goose down keeps your tush toasty, while double-layer GORE-TEX® fabric defends against wind and water. A drop collar shields the neck and face, eliminating the need for the separate fleece warmer I used to wear. Plenty of secure, zippered pockets mean you can safely carry your phone and casually Instagram your way through the day.

With comfort and looks covered, the only concern I'll have is remembering the breakneck twists and turns of the woods trails hidden in the Powderhorn hillside.