Winter

When the mercury tumbles and cold weather moves in, we all turn to winter warmth, whether a lightweight down-filled jacket, a longer puffy city coat or a parka that stands up to all seasonal weather. This year’s new models, breathable shells, the best jackets and warmest boots for all your favourite winter sports—we’ve got guides, reviews and top lists to sort it all out for you. Shop urban, outdoor and technical for mountain adventuring and warm urban comfort.

Featured

Best Boots for Snowshoeing in 2024

Best Boots for Snowshoeing in 2024

Snowshoe trails abound and models are evolving more and more, to the delight of users. Once you get your hands on the right pair of snowshoes, you’ll need a...
READ

Best Winter Jackets For Extreme Cold

It starts with a chill in the air and then, before you know it, boom!—ear-stinging winds and knee-deep snow. While we can't always avoid winter, we can prepare for six months of extreme, sub-zero temperatures. How? With the most extreme jackets and parkas, of course. In this article, we’ve rounded up this year’s best winter jackets for both men and women. Whether you’re looking for the warmest jackets, or the longest parkas, we’ve got you covered. This winter, don’t just stay inside—enjoy all winter has to offer in comfort and style. our top pick: Patagonia Glacier Down Jacket ShoeChaussureBagSacTentTente Brand Name | Product

Best Insulated Water Bottles

Choosing the right insulated water bottle doesn’t have to mean choosing the most expensive one. Try to focus instead on picking a water bottle that best meets your needs, whatever they may be. Embarking on a day hike? Going camping with your family? Leaving on a kayak expedition? Mountaineering with your best friend? Enjoying a good hot drink? No matter what you’re doing, there’s a water bottle for it. The majority of insulated water bottles stay hot for 6 to 12 hours and stay cold for between 6 to 24 hours. Choosing a water bottle also comes down to the size

Best Ski and Backcountry Ski Poles

However, a good choice will last for years. Ski poles assist with rhythm development, turn shape, speed control and terrain park exploration, making them a very useful part of your skiing toolkit. What used to be seen as a simple add-on to your skiing equipment is now highly specialized. This means you can find a set of the best ski poles for your unique skiing journey, whether that’s at the resort, on the cross-country track or deep in the wilderness. Read on to discover the seven best ski poles of 2022-23.  Best Overall: Atomic AMT SQS Ski PolesThe Atomic AMT SQS ski

The Best Avalanche Beacons Reviewed

This includes backcountry skiers but also anyone snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or winter hiking. Avalanches don’t distinguish between recreationists. Once you find the best avalanche beacon, you’ll be better prepared to deal with winter weather. In many ways, winter is the most dynamic and unpredictable season. Getting the right equipment is an important step in understanding how to navigate the colder months outdoors. Best Avalanche Beacons Reviewed Check out our list of the best avalanche beacons. These transceivers are accurate, easy to use and will provide critical information in any emergency situation. They are helpful to all winter recreationists, novices to

Beginner’s Guide to Splitboarding

Between it and snowboarding, skiing is the older discipline with more research and industry focus. However, snowboard enthusiasts can also get in on fun backcountry travel with a splitboard. Splitboarding is the snowboard equivalent of a backcountry ski setup. This allows snowboarders to engage in ski touring without having to carry extra equipment or use snowshoes. Altitude Sports has you covered with three of the best-selling backcountry splitboarding models in the market today. Black Diamond - BD X Cardiff Co-Lab Splitboard Burton - Family Tree Hometown Hero Camber Splitboard Burton - Family Tree Leader Board Splitboard What is splitboarding? Splitboarding

Canadian-Made & Designed Winter Jackets Brands

Canadian-made and designed winter jackets are created by people who know what it takes to feel right and look great in some of the coldest habitable winter climates on Earth. Some are even made from domestically-sourced materials and fabrics. Wherever they are created, buying a winter coat from a Canadian company contributes to the growth of Canada’s economy and, regarding those with domestic manufacture, help curb pollutants coming for international transportation routes. why choose Canadian brands? For Canadian-made brands, choosing to produce with domestically sourced materials and fabrics is not only beneficial to the growth of a country’s economy but

25 Essentials for Backcountry Skiing

The idea of human-powered descents in the arms of the mountains beckons to anyone with a wayward soul. If you plan a touring adventure right, magical moments are bound to ensue.On the flip side, poor preparation can lead to disaster. Skiing and riding are already dangerous activities at established resorts; once you step out of resort boundaries, the risks increase. It isn’t enough to simply own the gear; you need to know how to use it. Check out our top 25 essentials every skier should have on their backcountry ski packing list.The Knowledge FactorBefore we get into the backcountry ski

Guide to Ski Skins Maintenance

Due to the design of the fabric, the skins “grip” the snow, allowing your skis to walk forward or uphill with minimal resistance. Without skins, backcountry skiing would be exponentially tougher.  Given their importance to touring and backcountry skiing, it’s important to take care of your climbing skins. To help, we’ve rounded up some of the very best tips for ski skins maintenance. By following these tips, you’ll be able to get the most out of your skins without having to constantly replace them. How do climbing skins work? Climbing skins are the attachment necessary to provide grip on the

How Should a Winter Jacket Fit?

It's the oft-asked question: How should a winter coat fit? Parkas and winter wear are usually very warm, so getting it right can be the deciding factor when looking for the best winter jacket. Our comprehensive guide will help you make sure that you've made the right choice.Winter jacket fitting guide 101 shortcuts:Let your jacket gain its loft before wearing it Allow air circulationIf it's too tight, it's not rightThe verification testsThe hug testThe arms stretched out front testThe reach for the ski testThe shoulder seam checkAbout winter coat aesthetics 1. LETTING YOUR COAT GAIN ITS LOFT BEFORE WEARING IT If

How To Choose the Right Ski Length

Do you plan on taking full advantage of winter this year and taking up downhill skiing? Maybe you’re already a skier but it’s time to replace or upgrade your equipment. Are you looking to learn what skis are best for different conditions? There’s one thing to always keep in mind: what skis are the right size for you? Skill level and ski style Various ski lengths differ in terms of performance and control. As you will see later, ski size is largely determined by weight and height, however, this information is not enough to perfectly determine, to the centimetre, the

Winter Camping Essentials

Anyone who spends time enjoying and exploring the great outdoors knows that gear is everything. Clothing with features that optimize breathability, warmth, and freedom of movement is a must, along with durable equipment you can rely on to get you through your adventures. In the summer months, this gear may be more minimal, but when it comes to winter camping essentials, there’s a lot more to it. Many of us campers have experienced waking up on a chillier-than-average morning in the summer: the cold can be unpleasant, but you can usually go about your day and activities as per usual, even

Best Mittens and Gloves for Kids

Check out our list of the best kids' winter mittens and gloves to get the whole family ready for the snow. From ski adventures to the perfect snow angel, find the best pair for your youngsters. ShoeChaussureBagSacTentTente Best Kids’ Mittens Reviewed   Product Name Waterproof Moisture wicking Touchscreen compatible Shop Product Name Waterproof Microfibre lining Touchscreen compatible Shop Product Name Water and stain repellant Extra long cuff Shop Product Name Waterproof Knit lining Reflective details Shop Product Name Reinforced palms Quick drying Adjustable cuffs Shop Product Name Waterproof Moisture wicking Touchscreen compatible Shop Product Name Waterproof Microfibre lining Touchscreen compatible

Which Canada Goose Fit Is Best For You

Size & FitWe often get asked “Which size should I get for my Canada Goose parka?” It’s a great question and it depends on a few factors. Beyond your personal preference, you have to consider your body shape. There’s also a difference between size and fit. While sizes are mostly standard, fit can play a big difference. Most brands will go with a standard fit that uses average measurements as a reference point. Canada Goose understands that this can be limiting and introduced additional fits to cater to those who have trouble with standard fits, or who simply want a more custom

How to Clean, Store & Repair Ski Goggles

Ski goggles are essential for taking on the mountain. Like your jacket or snow pants, they protect you against the elements–in this case by shading your eyes from the sun or blocking the wind. While they are built to be durable, they still require some upkeep and care. To make sure you get the most out of your goggles for years to come, here's our guide on how to care for and properly maintain your goggles.How to clean ski & Snowboard gogglesHow to store ski & snowboard gogglesHow to repair ski & snowboard goggles 1. HOW TO CLEAN YOUR GOGGLES'

How to set up snowboard bindings

Snowboarders young and old, novice and expert, here is the article you've been waiting for: the secrets to mounting the bindings on your new snowboard!Following these few easy steps will make this process successful:Preparing for the installationHow to install your snowboard bindings?How to position your bindings?Adjustments to Make to Your Bindings 1. Preparing for the installation Gather all the parts and pieces of equipment you'll need, and put on your favourite playlist. Setting up your bindings is a fun way to spend time with your snowboard. You will needThe discs or screw inserts (what holds your binding to your board),

Best Gifts for Ski Bums & Snowboarders

Climbing skins, avalanche transceivers, GORE-TEX shells, essential accessories...understanding industry jargon can sometimes be a challenge, especially if you're shopping for a backcountry enthusiast or snowboarder with distinctive tastes. Fortunately, our own team of ski and snowboard enthusiasts has put together a selection of the best products to perform, ride with style, and stay safe. Discover the best gifts for skiers and snowboarders, all available at Altitude Sports. The Best Skiing & Snowboarding Gifts for Winter 2023 Our collection of downhill and backcountry gifts for skiers and snowboarders is equipped with the latest technology. Our selection, meticulously chosen by our snow

Choosing the Best Winter Boots for Winter

As we know, winter is generally colder than the rest of the seasons depending on the climate where you are living so adequate gear is imperative. Due to the more extreme temperatures, proper gear is essential for not only your comfort but for your safety too, (and of course to ensure your experience is exceptional) so make sure you’re picking the right pair of winter boots with the help of this winter boot guide. ShoeChaussureBagSacTentTente Best overall winter boot Sorel’s Caribou Winter Boots for men are timeless classics that will keep you warm and dry from zero to 32 below. The removable 9mm recycled

Best Canada Goose Parkas for Winter

The Canadian coat connoisseur knows exactly what it takes to integrate arctic-level performance with stylish city outerwear. Your next Canada Goose coat is an investment and should be treated that way. Before you purchase your parka, have a look at the best Canada Goose parkas for men or women, and accessories for 2023.OverviewCountless individuals cherish their Canada Goose parka, particularly at -25 degrees C, escaping unharmed and unfazed due to powerful insulating properties. Ensure your environment is appropriate for a Canada Goose jacket.Down is the natural insulator used in Canada Goose jackets. While down is light and warm, it becomes ineffective

Best Cycling Jackets for 2022

When you’re cycling in winter, your primary concern is to stay dry and warm. Modern brands design cycling jackets to keep you comfortable with modern synthetic fabrics that insulate and waterproof. They also feature excellent reflective zippers and convenient pockets for storing additional layers. We reviewed the best winter cycling jackets, and found the best overall winter cycling jacket with the most impressive features like waterproofing and breathability to be the Castelli Alpha RoS 2 Jacket. Breathable microporous membrane fabrics such as Gore-Tex prevent rainwater from getting in but allow moisture (read: sweat) to get out. These days, there is

Best Heated Gloves & Mitts for Winter 2022

When deep cold strikes, your regular gloves or mittens might not cut it against the freeze. Extremities get numb and nothing is worse than cold hands and cold fingers, especially out on the ski slopes or scaling an icy mountain. Fortunately in the never-ending world of innovative outdoor products, there are electric heated gloves - the digit-warmers of today and the future.1. Best heated gloves overall2. Best heated mitts overall3. Best budget heated gloves or mitts4. Best heated work gloves5. Best heated ski gloves6. Best thin heated gloves7. Best heated fatbiking gloves ShoeChaussureBagSacTentTente Best heated Gloves & Mitts, Reviewed Product

What to Wear Downhill Skiing

It can get cold in the resort. We know that and the brands that specialize in downhill skiing know that too. With so many collections and products designed to keep you warm and protected from the wind on the lift, there's really no reason to spend head to the chalet early.Winter weather is unpredictable, and that's even truer in the mountains. If the bright sun is warming the air when you make your first runs, that doesn't mean the wind won't pick up when you get back from lunch. So pack an extra pair of gloves and socks, and layer

The Cross Country Skiing Beginner’s Guide

Wednesday morning, 7:15 AM. The sun struggles to break through the clouds scattered here and there in the dawn sky. In just a few minutes, over to the east, it'll suddenly set the horizon ablaze, and I'll be able to turn off the headlamp lighting my way along the cross country ski trail. In less than two hours, I'll be back at work, at home in front of my computer. What makes a sane person leave the warmth of their bed so early, brave the biting cold, all to to get lost in the woods at this time of night

What to Wear Cross-Country Skiing

Your friends hit the downhill slopes every weekend, but have you always wanted to try cross-country? You're not alone—cross country skiing is booming in 2022! Cross-country skiing is one of the best ways to keep fit in winter. It's a cardio activity, but it's also quite peaceful (imagine skiing through the woods!) and suitable for the whole family. And with the right cross-country ski clothing, it's easier than you might think.While it often costs hundreds of dollars to buy new downhill ski equipment, cross-country ski equipment and clothing is much more affordable. However, it's not always easy to know how

Top 5 Places for Cross-Country Skiing in Quebec

Gaspésie National Park Cross-country skiing is one of the best ways to enjoy Quebec winters while staying in shape during the coldest months of the year.As we enter 2022, the reality of the world around us is still a bit different from previous years. And it seems like everyone has now taken up an outdoor activity. While this craze is certainly something to celebrate, the crowds at some once nearly-deserted areas can be discouraging for some. So we'd like to introduce you to our favourite options, some more well-known than others, for cross-country skiing (and its cousin: nordic skiing!) in

The Best Alternatives to the Arc’teryx Thorium AR Hoody

If you’ve been on the hunt for a puffy midlayer that’s both affordable and versatile, chances are you’ve already stumbled on the Arc’teryx Thorium AR. It’s a puff jacket highly prized for its flexibility across a broad range of activities and climates. It’s also insulated with European down, making it warm, packable, and ethical. But before you settle for the Thorium AR, we’ve rounded up some impressive alternatives that might make you reconsider. In this article, we look at three midweight midlayers that give the Thorium AR a run for its money, including: Alternative 1: Black Diamond - Access Down

The Best Alternatives to the Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoody

Winter is coming, and it’s time to prepare your wardrobe. In this article, we review the venerated Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoody alongside five of its most outstanding alternatives. Discover how well each of these softshells fare across three key metrics: build, performance, and price. On the menu today, we’ve got the: Alternative 1: Mammut - Eigerjoch Advanced IN Hooded Jacket Alternative 2: Rab - Microlight Alpine Jacket Alternative 3: Mountain Hardwear - Ghost Whisperer/2 Hoody Alternative 4: Norrøna - Falketind Down 750 Hood Alternative 5: Peak Performance - Helium Hood Jacket Although all of these can be used as a

The Best Alternatives to the Arc’teryx Therme Parka

Sure, scaling Mt. Everest and dog-sledding across Antarctica require some seriously warm jackets. But even winter in the city can leave you shivering, wet, and cursing the gods. So, with sub-zero temperatures right around the corner, it’s time to review the best urban winter parkas on the market. Discover how each of them stacks up across three key metrics: build, performance, and price. Today, we’ll be reviewing the: Alternative 1: Haglöfs - Mörkret GTX Down Parka Alternative 2: The North Face - Expedition Arctic Parka Alternative 3: Helly Hansen - Arctic Patrol Parka Alternative 4: Kanuk - Malex Parka Alternative

Best Ski Gloves for this Winter

The number one thing every skier - you included - wants to avoid is icy fingers on the mountain. To keep your fingers warm and dry, you’ll need waterproof hand protection. Though all ski gloves may seem relatively similar, there are significant differences in comfort, features, and design. There are also considerations such as your preference for gloves or mitts, leather or softshell, and heavy-duty or ultrathin builds. We’ll admit it: there are technical challenges in choosing the best ski gloves. But Altitude Sports has you covered with this round-up of the best ski gloves for 2022. After extensive review,

How to Layer For Outdoor Activities

Dressing appropriately and layering clothes for the weather and your outdoor activities can be problematic thanks to misleading weather reports and cheeky weather systems: do you dress for the 15-20mm of rain that is being forecasted or do you let your optimism take over and bring out the shorts and sun hat? As I'm sure almost everyone's ma and pa always told them: "It's better to be too hot than too cold...take your coat!" And they couldn't be more right! These wise words are the idea behind how to layer clothes properly—dress for the worst and adapt as you go.

Best Ski & Snowboard Jackets For Kids

The mountains covered with snow makes for happy skiers and snowboarders. But we're here to make sure no child gets left behind. While you peruse the best ski jackets and snowboard apparel, turn your thoughts to your little ones. After all, they want to play too, and you'll delight in passing down tips and tricks as your kids progress.  Taking on the mountain requires wearing the right apparel for everyone, so let's get into the best ski jackets for kids. From boots to ski pants, socks, sweaters and mittens, bundling up the right way makes all the difference. Whether they're

Best Ski & Snowboard Helmets

Besides your skis or snowboard, a helmet is the most important piece of gear. A head-injury sustained while speeding down a mountainside can result in a life-changing (or even life-ending) injury. That said, much of the risk can be mitigated by choosing the right helmet. Every year, helmet technologies improve, maximizing durability, ventilation, and protection, while minimizing weight. Plus, many of today’s styles, finishes, and colors elevate the helmet to the status of fashion accessory. Though it goes without saying, all outdoor adventures involve some degree of risk. But don’t take unnecessary ones—because you never know what’s lurking beneath the fresh

How to Choose the Right Ski Goggles

Winter is here and the slopes are buzzing with winter spirit and rosy cheeks. Epic snowstorm or not, a great day in the mountains begins with the right gear. While your snow pants and jacket, gloves and additional equipment are key, knowing how to choose the right goggles can make or break your day.We can all agree that the mirrored, black tinted lenses may look ultra badass but sadly, they aren't ideal for all weather conditions. When it comes to goggles, it is important to shop for comfort and functionality as opposed to style because being able to see your line while

  • Your Cart is Empty