Do you waste time in the morning trying to figure out what to wear according to how cold, windy, or warm it may or may not be out there? Do you find yourself on the hill either roasting like a turkey or shivering every chair ride like a shell shocked Chihuahua. If so, chances are your layering game needs some work. With that in mind we put together a kit from the mindful brand iNi.
First, a little about iNi Cooperative. If you aren’t yet familiar with this Oregon-based brand, it should be known first and foremost that iNi spreads the message of unity and oneness through a sustainably created product. As much as the style and innovation they represent in their progressive line of outerwear, street wear, hats and crossover pieces, it is the value system of a new age that defines the brand — and for that reason we are backing them.
That said, it’s been incredible to dig in to their line and see what they have created by wholeheartedly adopting a model that puts such emphasis on the health and happiness of all as opposed to a market takeover strategy that leaves a wake of unfulfillable promise and unsustainable practice.
Now getting to the layering thing here, the kit we chose is hard to define as this or that and is honestly one for the most versatile systems around. In fact iNi knows the value of defining their layers and has come up with a template for all its snow product starting with the Exosphere or 20k outerwear to, thermos and mesosphere (15 and 10k), down to the stratosphere (water repellent) and troposphere (moisture wicking first layer).
Scubaclava / Sphant
This moisture wicking base layer blends 85 percent recycled polyester (pet) and 15 percent organic hemp for a unique fabric construction that is as warm as it is soft. The Scubaclava, you’ll notice, is quite the piece with it’s full hood and ninja mask built right in, eliminating any potential breaches where snow might encounter bare skin. As for the Sphant, it’s obvious they understand the dilemma encountered by full length base layers and their sometimes awkward association with the boot and sock scenario. These three quarter length skivvies stop at the boot line with the idea that your lower calf is already dialed. The fleece lined crotch region also ensures that direct junk contact is a pleasurable experience.
$69.99 (Scubaclaca) / $49.99 (Sphant)
View the Scubaclava and the Sphant in our Online Buyer’s Guide.
Quib Shirt
Assuming Quib is the best name possible for any product ever invented (which we are), this jacket is equally fantastic. Easily our favorite crossover piece, this 10 waterproof jacket can serve multiple purposes, first and foremost being a very warm second layer. Made from 100 percent recycled polyester Dobby and 60g poly fill (recycled) insulation complete with split taffeta lining, as far as comfort goes, it’s like wearable vicodin. With a removable hood and incredible after riding capabilities, the stylish Squib is also a perfect riding jacket for warmer, spring days.
$139.99
View the Quib Shirt in our Online Buyer’s Guide.
Peak Jacket
Equipped with a product of this caliber one feels god like in both physical and spiritual capacity due to the uncommon features that define this one of a kind jacket. To begin with, it’s 20k waterproof/breathablity rating is more than encouraging as far as inner and outer dryness is concerned. In other words, its capacity to block the moisture or snow and rain is equalled by the fabric’s ability to allow moisture to escape from the body. However, it’s the unique features that really got us hyped. For instance, the active flow through venting system on the chest is really cool. Upon opening the zippers and internal elastic bungie pinches the fabric together creating an fully open hole for the air to penetrate. Also, the peripheral and circumference hood cinches not only eliminate hood flap but bring in the cuff for a tighter fit around the face if needed. Comes with a removable stretch face mask as well. Plus, it’s made from 59 percent recycled material.
$279.99
View the Peak Jacket in our Online Buyer’s Guide.
Arch Pant
We’re betting the Arch pant got its name from the inventive contoured saddle at the hem of the pant. These half moon cuts that allows for a natural fit over the boot eliminate pant drag and consequently the affliction known as “bum leg”. Like the Peak jacket, it has a similar active venting system with vents on either side of the leg allowing maximum crossflow. In addition to an spiffy interior stretchy waistband, we also dig the one of a kind stretch boot gaiter with stirrup strap, a innovation that goes around you boot to provide a 100 percent guarantee the gaiters don’t budge.
$229.99
View the Arch Pant in our Online Buyer’s Guide.
The iNi Cooperative Minnesota team edit
