When asked to describe the feeling of being out on the mountain slopes, Eddie Bauer merchandiser Ryan Haj used words like, “freeing,” “creative,” “on top of the world,” and “type b fun.” An experienced snowboarder, Ryan shared some of his best moments on the slopes, and also introduced Eddie Bauer’s ultra-versatile new Chair Six Kit.
Exploring Ryan’s Best Moments
“The best day of my year so far!”
Ryan’s favorite memory is seeing fresh, untouched snow the first time he went backcountry snowboarding on Mount Hood. “It was by far one of the hardest things I’ve ever done,” he noted. Although grueling, it was extremely rewarding, as he was able to gain access to part of the mountain that would have otherwise been unreachable. Even though the ride down only lasted half an hour, Ryan said, “It was still the best day of my year so far,” as he caught the golden hour with a magnificent view of the breathtaking mountainside.
Ryan’s Gear Essentials
“If you have really good gear, it can make a good day great!”
Ryan has had years of first-hand experience with various technical gear and outerwear for both skiing and snowboarding. He specifically searches for materials that are warm, waterproof, and breathable. While you’ll need to stay warm, you’re also likely to sweat and will need to cool down at times. He emphasizes that, “if you have really good gear, it can make a good day great.”
The Chair Six Kit
“An innovative kit that makes layering more understandable.”
While the Chair Six Kit is ideal for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, it can help beginners learn the importance of layering and how necessary it is when out on the mountain slopes. With the Chair Six Kit, Eddie Bauer hopes to make the concept more approachable for individuals who may not be familiar with using a ski shell layering system.
The kit is simple, with only four pieces: a 3-layer waterproof shell jacket and pants, plus a hybrid insulated top and pants. Ryan explains that each piece is thoughtfully designed to integrate seamlessly together. Each panel and vent is strategically placed and made with technical design elements that ensure stretchability and breathability. The hybrid top has stretch paneling under the arms that aligns with the underarm zippers in the shell jacket. The hybrid layers feature insulated panels on the chest, thighs, and rear, integrated with breathable stretch fleece panels, and the shell pants have inner thigh vents for more temperature control options. The kit is designed to provide lasting comfort, flexibility, and heat management for all bodies and skill levels.
Your Guide to Winter Layering
“Layering makes or breaks your day.”
Layering is important because it allows you to create a specific system to fit your unique needs. After all, everyone is different, and some people run hot while others run cold. In addition, safety is a crucial factor when considering layering, as you will likely experience changes both in body temperature and outdoor conditions (check out our blog on outdoor safety here). We recommend finding comfortable pieces that you can wear for a variety of different activities. With the Chair Six Kit, Ryan suggests wearing all four layers in the morning and removing the insulated mid layers as the day warms up.
With its smart heat management system and its comfortable and breathable paneling, the Chair Six Kit truly is designed to meet all your needs, regardless of your skill level or the weather conditions.
