Lead Photo Credit: High Camp
Every year around October, visions of snowflakes start to dance in our heads. Winter is coming and with it, ski and snowboard season. After what seems like an eternity, thanks to this global pandemic, it cannot come soon enough. Start dusting off your old gear and getting it ready. Better yet, maybe it’s even time for an upgrade. We set you up with new helmets, gloves, jackets and more in our first two editions of our three part winter gear guide but what about gear for when the lifts stop spinning.
Après Ski is an integral part of an epic ski day. If you don’t après ski, were you ever really skiing at all? NOPE! With that in here are the hottest new items to make après just a bit more fun. As if it needed any help.
California Cowboy Yukata Robe – $148
Photo Credit: California Cowboy
Take après ski around the hot tub by storm when you strut your stuff in this sick Yukata Robe. The terry cloth lining will keep you warm on your walk in while helping you dry off on your way out. The true key to this piece though is the special pockets. One is waterproof for your wallet, keys and phone. The other, more important pocket, houses your frosty beverage of choice. Good looks and functionality, you just can’t go wrong.
Benchmade 602 Tengu Tool – $180
Photo Credit: Benchmade
Given the current state of Covid combined with limits on dining at many ski resorts, many will most likely resort to their car when it comes time for après ski. The Tengu Tool is a highly unique friction folder that can come in handy in this situation. Deploy it from the carrying case and you’re greeted with a bottle opener to use when cracking open those post ski beers. Fold the opener in and a small tanto blade appears that is perfect for cutting meats and cheese to pair with that ice cold brew.
High Camp Firelight 750 Flask – $125
Photo Credit: High Camp
No one knows how much booze you’ll be able to buy at your mountain resort of choice this winter so take matters into your own hands. The High Camp Firelight 750 is the perfect vessel for you to carry and share your spirit of choice this. The vacuum insulated flask can hold an entire fifth of alcohol. The 6-Shooter tumblers seal to the flask with a magnet locking system making it easy to remove and pour. Just throw it in your pack and when time comes, bottoms up!
Olukai Moloa Slipper – $120
Photo Credit: Olukai
Let’s face it, ski boots SUCK! So your feet will thank you when you slip them into these slippers from Olukai. The Moloa is the very definition of comfort. The shearling interior offers next level softness while the nubuck exterior will break in nicely while maintaining its structure. They even look amazing which is fine if you, say, happen to forget to take them off prior to leaving the house.
Camp Chef Versa Top Grill – $165
Photo Credit: Camp Chef Instagram page.
Covid has forced ski resorts across the country to reduce mountain dining significantly. This is sure to produce a larger than usual tailgate scene in the lots this winter. You’ll need a grill that you can trust in these conditions. Camp Chef’s Versa Top is as well-rounded as they come. The stainless steel burner is powered by a 1 lb. disposable propane bottle and pumps out 12,000 BTUs for your cooking pleasure. Equipped with a 14” pre-seasoned cast iron flat top it is out-of-the-box ready but can accommodate any of Camp Chef’s 14” attachments including their BBQ Grill Box and Pizza Oven. With power and versagrillity like this, you’ll be the talk of the tailgate.
Ice Breaker Men’s Merino Nature Dye Helliers Crewe Sweatshirt – $210
Photo Credit: Icebreaker
If ever there was a dress sweatshirt, this is the one. It’s perfect for those après ski days when you’re not wearing flannel. Comfortable, warm and classy this is a very versatile piece. You could easily wear this as a mid-layer in cold weather conditions. Than shed your jacket and hang by the fire in the lodge (if they allow that these days) or head right out to dinner and almost feel dressed up.
Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski lifestyle clothing and media brand, All About Après. No stranger to the ski and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor for many publications on topics like skiing, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is on the slopes and enjoying good times with good people. You can find him perfecting his craft carving turns and drinking beers in the Green Mountains of Vermont. @allaboutapres