Outfitted: Versatile jackets for changing seasons

Whether you’re basking in the delight of spring skiing, riding the après-ski train, or dabbling in some shoulder-season hiking, the right jacket can make all the difference. Recently, I’ve been putting a handful of jackets to the test — each with their own strengths and quirks. Here are five that I recommend for excelling in different scenarios, as we round the corner to spring and our mountain off-season.

Cotopaxi Trico Hybrid Jacket

I’ve always appreciated Cotopaxi’s commitment to sustainability, and the Trico Hybrid Jacket is no exception. This jacket blends recycled polyester insulation with a fleece back panel, making it a solid choice for high-output activities. I’ve been wearing it for brisk dog walks during these recent fluctuating temps. It keeps me warm without overheating. The lightweight design also makes it easy for layering — although, keep in mind that it runs a little on the big side, so I recommend sizing down, if you plan to use it for a staple layering piece. Available in women’s and men’s colors and sizes.

$175, Cotopaxi.com

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Hoka SkyFill Outdoor Jacket

Hoka, known for its ultra-cushioned footwear, recently stepped into the apparel world with the SkyFill Outdoor Jacket. I was skeptical at first, but this jacket surprised me. Featuring down-mimicking PrimaLoft/ThermoPlume synthetic insulation, it provides a great warmth-to-weight ratio for a snowshoe or an early spring hike. The water-resistant shell handles light snow or drizzle well, but don’t rely on it in heavy precipitation situations. In my opinion, the fit is perfect with its comfortable four-way stretch. If you’re already a Hoka fan, this jacket will round out your collection as a solid down-alternative piece that is light, warm, and versatile. Available in women’s and men’s colors and sizes.

$298, Hoka.com

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Stellar Shell Jacket 2.0

There’s still plenty of skiing left, and whether you’re resort riding, freeriding, skinning, or venturing into the sidecountry, this high-performance beauty from high-tech Swedish company Stellar Equipment pulls out all the stops. I’ve tested it in multiple conditions, and it repels moisture like a champ. The three-layer construction keeps me dry without feeling stuffy, thanks to excellent breathability and being light weight. The sleek, minimalist design is both stylish and functional, though in light of your layering system, keep in mind that the fit is a little on the slimmer side. One downside? The price tag. But if you need a reliable waterproof shell for alpine adventures, this one is worth considering as a big-picture investment. I also highly recommend getting the matching pants with the internally connecting snow-gator system if your wallet can hack it. Available in women’s and men’s colors and sizes.

$649, StellarEquipment.com

Krimson Klover Annie Long Down Shacket

These warming spring temps always bring après-ski afternoons to the forefront of my mind, and the Annie Long Down Shacket has been my recent go-to for its blend of fashion and function. The longer length keeps my bum toasty, and the 650-fill down insulation and water-repellant finish keeps me warm when the sun drops behind Shadow Mountain. With its striped, contrasting grosgrain ribbon and matte snaps, it’s more of a lifestyle piece than a technical jacket. The price is a little steep, but as of press time, it was significantly on sale.

$259, KrimsonKlover.com

 Kuhl Stretch Voyagr Jacket

Even though winter hasn’t yet had its last hurrah, there’s no denying that there’s an increasing feeling of spring in the air. For the inevitable mixed weather conditions that come with our mountain spring and shoulder season, I recommend the Stretch Voyagr Jacket for its comfortable versatility. When I was back in the midwest for the holidays, I wore it on a warmish drizzly day, and the water-resistant yet breathable fabric kept me dry without feeling clammy. The lightweight stretch material also provides excellent mobility, which makes it a great option for high-activity adventures. The hood design is well-structured, offering good coverage without obstructing vision, which can be a tough balance to achieve in my experience. Keep in mind: This is more of a spring jacket option and won’t provide much insulation when things turn chilly. Available in women’s and men’s colors and sizes.

$179, Kuhl.com

Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.

Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer, and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.