Anything could include work gear — Carhartt coveralls preferred by construction crews or Aramark and Refrigiwear suits made for those who work in cold spaces for long periods of time. Or, if you ski, snowboard, or snowshoe, pull on your gear — from old pants lying around in the back of the closet to a bright white Verbier suit, the current best seller from My Sunday Ski, a British brand.
Sarah Crockett, the chief marketing officer of Backcountry.com, an outdoor apparel and equipment site, reported growth in all snow categories. “The one-piece business is up 59 percent year over year. People are trying to figure out how to stay warm and cozy,” she said, citing especially companies that offer colorful suits, including Airblaster and Picture Organic. “The brands we carry are built for a specific activity like backcountry riding and require technical features, but that doesn’t mean they’re not also great for sitting around having a socially distanced driveway visit.”
(If you’re wondering how to pee while wearing a snowsuit, Ms. Crockett said her own Burton bib has a “system that allows you not to disrobe,” which sounds a lot like old-school Dr. Denton pajamas. Unfortunately not all brands have similarly prioritized technical performance — yet. “We are working on a bathroom solution,” said Mr. Murillo of Selk’bag.)
But even in a snowsuit cold can creep in — remember childhood sledding? Ms. Lubomirski feels it in her toes. “I only wear used shoes. I have been wearing my ’90s L.L. Bean boots and freezing,” she said.
The answer to staying warm when not moving around is what’s under the snowsuits.
Ms. Crockett, who lives in Park City, Utah, has “personal expertise in staying warm” and is passionate about the art of layering. For down-to-your-toes comfort, she likes a thick base layer (fleece or wool). For very cold weather, an insulator, like a thin down jacket, is useful. Thin layers won’t restrict movement. “You’re not walking around like the kid from ‘Christmas Story,”’ she promised.
Do not underestimate headwear. Ms. Crockett is a fan of hoods; they cover ears fully, as well as protect the neck. For a game changer, toss hand and foot warmers into gloves and boots. “That’s the cherry on top,” she said.