Michigan ski shops debut hot new styles for cold weather

Clarkston, MI (2009-2010)–Whether you are a “rider” (snowboarder), “slider” (downhill skier) “glider” (cross country skier) or just enjoy wearing clothing that looks like you’re fresh off the slopes; ski and sporting goods shops across the state have a wide assortment of hot new apparel for cold winter days.

“We are seeing more and more recycled fabrics as clothing manufacturers look for ways to go green,” says Mickey MacWilliams, executive director of the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA).  Some manufacturers are using fabric made from recycled material for their products. Instead of virgin polyester, fabric can now be produced by turning recycled water bottles into thread.

Clothing manufacturer Patagonia is a forerunner in using recycled polyester.  This year the company intends to lessen their carbon footprint by constructing every product out of recycled material while also making the garment recyclable itself.

The appeal of purchasing recycled products also translates into more conservation in style as well. “In terms of skiwear design, we’re seeing a more simplified aesthetic that reflects the ‘less is more’ philosophy,” says Eric Pearson of Bill & Paul’s Sporthaus in Grand Rapids. “People are more conscious of waste and excess, but want comfort and functionality, so garment designs reflect this with fewer cut and sew seams, and more refined colors,” he adds.

For many, the economy is the biggest trend influencer now and companies such as Quiksilver have responded by developing less expensive products that still focus on performance and style.

“Many of the new styles can easily cross over from skiing to snowboarding, to street wear,” says Hans Erni of Don Thomas Sporthaus in Birmingham.  The two predominant looks of the past winters – the technical look with dozens of zippers and pockets, and the boxy, baggy snowboard garb – are giving way to bright colors and sleeker, more sophisticated lines.

For those looking to make a statement – vibrant colors, wild prints and tiny embellishments can personalize any attire.  Boyne Country Sports soft goods buyer Kelly Mebert sees a return of the ‘80s bright colors –almost-neon hues with black and white backgrounds.  Accessory items including fun knit hats, Castro-style caps and beanies complete the look.  “Mixing patterns, stripes with dots and plaids with bubble prints, keeps things new and exciting,” she says, like wearing “print pants, print tops and striped socks!”  She predicts that a lot of winter athletes will be wearing bright turquoise, lime, or yellow accented with prints.  Scarves are also a must this season for men and women; long multi-print scarves to wear indoors and out.

This season, clothing manufacturer Orage draws inspiration from the ‘80s boardsport graphic craze and includes bright, bold patterns, retro design, message-driven logos and oversized zippers. Spyder adds sparkling precision-cut crystals to the new L-Series, which includes the “Bling” jacket. Burton’s 2010 White Collection includes England’s post-punk era theme-inspired prints, bold colors and quirky trims. Burton girls’ jackets sport wild prints and rich fabrics.

For cross-country skiing, Bob Frye of Cross Country Ski Headquarters in Roscommon says he is seeing more lightweight layers and more crossover to fall and spring outdoor athletic wear. Specific brands include: Brooks, SportHill, Craft, Swix, North Face, CWX, Under Armour, Gordini and Smartwool.

 “Today, the functionality of new fabrics allows for great, fashionable looks, while still maintaining warmth,” says Bob Thomas of Skiers Peak in Sylvan Lake. “We’re seeing a lot of modular-component outfits, which make it easy for customers to personalize their style by mixing and matching.”

“Our hot clothing line is 66 North,” says Heidi Parent of Sun & Snow Sports in Ann Arbor.  “It has only been available a few years in the U.S. but it has been keeping Iceland warm since 1926.  It is high-quality extreme-cold clothing for all outdoor elements.  66 North is fresh, hot, and for all ages.”  For women, she maintains that belted jackets, satin finishes and big buttons will set the trends.

Scott Schuette of MC Sports adds that sales of helmets are continuing to increase, as safety and comfort become more and more important to skiers and riders.  In response, manufacturers have risen to the demands of function with style.  “The new helmets are lightweight, comfortable, warmer than a hat and come in materials to match some of the ski and snowboard parkas and pants,” he added.  “So you don’t have to give up style for safety and comfort.”

Regardless of whether you “ride”, “slide” or “glide,” retailers predict that it will be a fun, colorful year on Michigan slopes and trails.