Northwest Wear for Chily Days and Nights

By Susan Rich

Fashion-forward fabrics and comfortable styling mark the latest trend in winter apparel. Looking for outerwear that is lightweight and weather-resistant? Check. How about outdoor-indoor, all-day styling? Got it. Need a little something that is just downright cozy? Look no further: Walk About has found the latest “must-haves” in chilly wear — and salutes those companies that make their home here in the Northwest.

Woolie, Woolie
Merino wool and other wool blends continue to captivate: Wool is a naturally renewable resource that can even be recycled — we love the clever and cozy arm warmers made by Oregon-based textile artist Jenna Robertson. She uses cast-off clothes she finds in thrift stores to stitch her one-of-a-kind creations. Her Woolie Originals line also includes hats and leg warmers. www.woolieoriginals.com
Portland-based but New Zealand-sourced Icebreaker is setting the standard for down under: Their line of men’s and women’s under garments is made of super-soft merino wool — a 100% natural, sustainable, and biodegradable product that gets renewed as quickly as a sheep gets sheared. Merino breathes, wicks away moisture, doesn’t itch, and resists odor even after several workouts or days of wear. Their line of sweet nothings is temptation enough; be sure to check out their base layers and jackets. www.icebreaker.com
Lambsuede gear — a popular pick from Hood River-based Shred Alert — has the same baaa-sic properties of wool but is made of synthetic fibers. It is durable, machine wash and dry, and absolutely won’t itch the most sensitive of us all. This hat, scarf, and glove set are lined with soft shearling, providing insulation — and a taste of walk-about class – for some of the chilliest winter days. Visit them online to see more styles for men. www.shredalert.com
Fight the Chill
Eugene-based SportHill offers avid walkers a wide range of choices in winter gear. The Climate jacket, available in men’s and women’s styles, makes a good top layer for walking in the rain: It is made of a tightly woven fabric that is water resistant and lightweight. www.sporthill.com
Did you know that Tyvek – a variation of the material used to insulate homes – is a great way to ward off winter chill? This lightweight windbreaker keeps you warm and dry without adding weight or bulk. Leslie Jordan, based in Northwest Portland, sells Tyvek jackets online one at a time – or you can create an eye-catching custom order for your walking group. Unisex styling. www.lesliejordan.com
Wherever Wear
Slip it on and snuggle up in a “Slide” hoodie, made by Portland-based Merrell. This sleekly designed, water resistant topper has no zipper to break or buttons to lose. A drawcord lets you snug it up at the waist. Merrell Opti-Warm™ insulation provides warmth without bulk for light packing and freedom of movement. www.merrell.com
Simple and sleek, this Omni-Dry Mountain Tech long-sleeved top from Columbia Sportswear works as a base layer or an all-day weekend top. Pair it with a jacket, and this easy wear, easy care piece can go to the office. Even better, the top offers UPF 15 protection, making this a sun-friendly year-round choice. There’s also a similar offering for men: The Omni-Dry Mountain Tech thermal has the same moisture-wicking, anti-microbial, and UPF 15 properties as the ladies’ style. Since 1938, this Portland icon has been outfitting Oregonians, and the rest of the world, in outdoor apparel and footwear. www.columbia.com
Some of us like to walk in the rain, some of us prefer to dodge raindrops on the way to our yoga class or favorite tea house. Either way, Lucy — whose flagship store is located in Portland’s trendy Pearl District — has the pant for you: Their Walk About pant boasts a stretch fabric that is as forgiving as it is stylish. Deep side pockets, drawstring waistband, and quick-dry fabric makes this the ideal workout/hangout partner. www.lucy.com
When your body glides, pack along some BodyGlide. Based in Bellevue, WA, this non-stick stick reduces the friction where flesh meets fabric. Less friction means fewer blisters and sore spots in tender places. www.bodyglide.com