After much debate with myself over purchasing a cute insulated jacket or technical shell, I was surprised to find the perfect combination in my closet as an early surprise Christmas present. The North Face Fuse Brigandine Jacket is a waterproof technical shell that is just as fashionable as it is function-able. I have the tech blue color, which is bold and electrifying, but toned down enough to not look like a construction sign.

I have skied a total of 30 days thus far and have worn the jacket in multiple conditions from heavy snowfall in Japan to warm sunny days in the Wasatch. The Fuse has kept me dry and warm, allowing room for several layers and a micro puff. I have also used it on several tours in the backcountry and it is breathable and protects from the wind. The length of the jacket is also a plus, it is long yet takes in consideration a women’s curves.

The best thing about The North Face Fuse is that it’s got plenty of vents, plus lots of pockets inside and out, and bomb proof zippers! It’s super light weight, but also durable. This jacket is made to last and I’m stoked to have it for coming seasons. My only complaint is that the zippers were a bit difficult at first, but after some use, they’ve started cooperating. The hood is huge and will easily go over a helmet in harsher conditions.

I’d recommend this jacket to any lady shredder who gets out on mountain a good bit, rides technical terrain, or needs a jacket for versatile conditions!

Shop for the North Face Fuse Brigandine Jacket from Backcountry.com.

Saga is the standard of outerwear style among the freestyle skiing community. Their Monarch 3L men’s pants do not break away from this trend, plus they add the technical features that harsh winter conditions demand. I picked mine up from Saga HQ in Salt Lake City. The guys in there are super helpful and always happy to help style everyone out for life in the mountains.

Some of the key features of the Monarch pants that I have really enjoyed in the 40 days I have worn them so far this season are tech materials, large cargo pockets, powder skirt attachments, and the their look. The 20k/20k waterproof/breathability ratings have been great while dealing with the elements. They manage to stay cool while going uphill but nice warm while on the descent and chilly resort days. They are very lightly insulated which is just right for me, while wearing the Saga-tek 3/4 base layer underneath. The cargo pockets hold whatever I need for the day out of the way of the articulation of my knees. The powder skirt attachment is an awesome feature, that when paired with my Trew Cosmic Jacket, keep all the snow where it should be, out the outside.

I have two complaints about the pants. One, being that the vent could be bigger, although I do like that it wraps all the way around the crotch. Two, I fell right in-between the medium and large sizes. I wear a 30×30 Levis and the medium feels a bit too small and the large were way too big for the look I was going for. I don’t think this is Saga’s fault but just how the pants fit my body.

Buy Online:

• Saga Monarch 3L Pant – Men’s regularly $219.95 on sale $153.96

• Trew Gear Cosmic Jacket – Men’s regularly $419.95 on sale $293.96