There are a lot of outerwear choices out there for moms. A gorgeous coat that is perfect for covering that little black dress. Wait a minute did I say black dress? Sorry, that is my other life.
I have to admit; I have not always loved performance wear. But living the motto, “No bad weather, only bad clothing”, makes outerwear a necessary tool in helping keep me comfortable when I am out with my children.
Luckily, a lot of things have improved in not only technology but new styles and cuts to choose from. A smart way to approach outerwear is to invest in a high quality outdoor jacket that is water resistant and wind proof, called a shell. You can use it in very cold to mild weather; you just add the appropriate layers. You can find this kind of jacket at all kinds of price points. Keeping in mind you get what you pay for in quality and performance.
Using a shell for winter takes a different mindset than an insolated jacket. If you buy a shell and expect it to keep you warm you are in for a rude surprise. The jacket is there to keep you dry and protected from the wind. It is what you wear underneath that is going to keep you warm. Don’t forget to either bring your usual layers with you to the store or try on similar layers when fitting your jacket so you don’t find the fit too tight on cold days.
Look here to learn more about layering in winter.
Some of my favorites
I have been drooling for this jacket for quite some time. Perfectly fitted, made with gore-tex and manufactured in British Columbia, Canada. My favorite is the Beta AR Jacket. Durable and waterproof this hard-shell jacket is designed for use in an alpine environment. It is expensive, but it comes with a lifetime guarantee from defects. A friend of mine had one that after some use the zipper went bad. They needed a repair quickly as they were going on a trip. Arct’eryx immediately sent a replacement no questions asked. Funny thing is, when they went to the store where they bought the jacket to pick-up a few small things, they mentioned how great Arct’eryx was in standing behind their product. The owner of the store scolded them as he would of taken care of the problem for them. Not many stores handle warranty claims these days and it is a testament to how Arct’eryx services their retail clients.
The North Face
Known to be a very reliable brand by both outdoor enthusiast and for everyday wearers. Check out their website for offers and product styles.Our favorite is the Women’s Varius Guide jackets.
Mountain Equipment Co-op If you are into outdoor living in Canada chances are pretty high that you are a member of MEC. (SHIPS TO THE USA). The Canadian COOP offers a wide range of not only outerwear but equipment as well. They also have a satisfaction guarantee that is unprecedented. As long as you are at the store or on their website, look for some wind and waterproof pants good for winter and rainy days.
