LL Bean Utility Jacket is a keeper
We have a team of reviewers – Natalie Lord, Katrin Silva, Amy Skinner, Julie Kenney, and Maddy Butcher, putting these products to the test. We think these items from Patagonia, Title Nine, LL Bean, Toad&Co., Jungmaven, and Buff offer a fabulous array of options for horsewomen and outdoorswomen as colder months approach.
Check out our Bestuvs! an annual gift giving guide.
Outerwear
Katahdin Insulated Pullover by LL Bean – a warm, practical layer that may find it’s way to the top of the pile, either as a vital midlayer or as a top by itself when you’re running out to toss hay before breakfast or at last call. We like it!
Utility Jacket by LL Bean – it might be our new barn coat favorite. Stay tuned for details!
Bottoms
Crash Tights 2.0 from Title Nine
We love these warm, durable leggings from Title Nine. The Crash Tights 2.0 shed hay and shavings well and are much warmer than jeans. They’ve performed spectacularly throughout our two-month winter testing. Comfy like pajamas, but wildly more presentable and practical. Check ’em out!
Title Nine Full Zip Power Hoodie
Tops
Cabin Stretch Flannel Shirt by LL Bean. Sometimes companies get it right. Sometimes they don’t. While the Scotch Plaid flannel by LL Bean is a clear winner (see below for link and Julie’s review), this shirt doesn’t quite hit the mark for active riders like us. While the cut and style are nice and size-correct, it’s not particularly warm. The side pockets and the longer length make it cumbersome for tucking in or leaving out when in the saddle.
Scotch Plaid Flannel Shirt by LL Bean. Read Julie’s review here.
ReForm Flannel Shirt by Toad&Co.
ReForm Flannel Shirt by Toad&Co. A soft, totally likeable top. Read Amy Skinner’s review here.
Sierra Raglan Sweatshirt from Jungmaven. Writes our reviewer, Natalie Lord: this the perfect go-to layer for any time of the year. The garment is soft yet durable. What’s special about Jungmaven clothing is not only are they handmade in the USA, but the fabric is hemp, which has an extremely low environmental footprint. This sweatshirt is breathable and warmth. On a brisk November beach walk, it was the perfect layer to keep me warm and protected from the wind.
Patagonia Midweight Capilene
Super Power Full Zip Sweater from Title Nine, quickly becoming a favorite. Made of extrafine merino and miraculously washable. Feels soft and yummy on the skin but holds up to barn chores brilliantly.
Boots
Slip-On Storm Chaser by LL Bean. Easy-peasy slip-on boots that make cold, winter barn runs a piece of cake. Comfortable enough to wear all day. They are insulated but don’t make your feet sweaty (always a tricky balance).
Rangeley Pac Boot by LL Bean
Rangeley Pak Boot by LL Bean
Limited Edition Thinsulate and Flannel-Lined Bean Boot
Read Julie’s review of the Limited Edition LL Bean boot here.
Accessories
We review two alternatives to scarves. Both are tubular, warm, and cozy. Both would make great stocking stuffers for the outdoors-y loved ones on your list. Read reviews here.
Air Gaiter by Patagonia. This knit tube has a looser weave than the Buff Merino and is therefore easier to breathe through if you have it up around your nose and mouth. That also makes it less warm.
Buff Merino headgear. We tried the light merino blend and loved the pattern, durability and versatility of this little item.
Buffs are now made of merino!
Black Hole Duffle Bag, 40liter, by Patagonia might just be the perfect weekend bag, or, as our reviewer found, the perfect Thanksgiving trip bag. Carry or wear it as a backpack. What’s not to love?
Other
Winter Leggings by Title Nine
Trail Running shoes from Hoka One One. Read Katrin Silva’s review. And the Sense Ride 2 from Salomon, an ideal shoe for most terrain. The Sense Ride was comfortable right out of the box. Review coming soon.
Check out our Bestuvs! an annual gift giving guide.
Peeko loves this Black Hole Duffel from Patagonia