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An avalanche of innovation adds warmth and fun this winter.

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APPAREL

1. PATAGONIA

Mixmaster jacket and pants

$295, $275

As Patagonia's warmest insulated winter soft-shell, the Mixmaster uses a windproof and water-resistant nylon face laminated to the company's breathable, sweat-wicking Regulator [R] insulation. A thinner insulation is used on the sides of the torso, underarms, and sleeves for enhanced mobility. Features include a helmet-sized hood, internal zippered pocket with stretch mesh, and a removable, between-the-legs strap to keep the jacket in place. The matching pant is loaded, too: adjustable, drop-seat suspenders; snap closures at waist and ankle cuff; two-way zip fly; elastic waist back; side zippers from waist to upper thigh for ventilation; zippered map pocket on right thigh; articulated, reinforced knees; and insulation that ends at mid-calf for less bulk over boots. 800-PATAGONIA; patagonia.com

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2. COLUMBIA SPORTSWEAR

Mountain Vertex parka

$380

This deluxe two-in-one parka includes a seam-sealed shell made of Columbia's waterproof-breathable Omni-Tech and a full-zip polyester fleece liner that can be worn alone as a sweatshirt-style jacket The shell, made of a flat, tear-resistant ripstop, includes a hood, huge underarm zippers from side to elbow, two large zippered chest pockets, and two open-mesh pockets inside for gloves or water bottles. The zip-in fleece has a high-count yarn for a soft hand and a low-pill face. The shell sold separately costs $280. 800-MA-BOYLE; columbia.com

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