Window Shopping - Westbeach

Westbeach is one of the true Canadian institutions or as they put it on their site "The Canadian Snowboarding Original". What's more as one of the West coast brands, all their outerwear is designed in Vancouver and then tested on the local mountains and even though they are designing clothing for snowboarders, i think any self-respecting skier might just about get over the cusses on their site and be able to live with wearing some of the gear. They're celebrating 30 years this year and we were lucky enough to be at the Schick fashion show in Whistler last season when they showcased some of their vintage outfits which in my view are still cool enough to be worn today.

Locals might be familiar with the names of some of this year's ranges with runs such as "Franz" and "Peak to Creek" among those given recognition. They've even got a short explanation as to why they picked each of the names and even though some of the links are tenuous we're loving the thought, dedication and loyalty to their origins.

There are 12 different styles of jackets (although in reality it's only 10 - there is an insulated and shell version for two) but the styles I think are going to be popular are the Maverick and the Tall. The first because it has some amazing colour jackets and the latter because it has been specifically designed for what they call the "park rats". My favourite has got to be what I suspect will be this season's signature jacket: the Maverick in white (see right). Other styles worth a mention are the "peak to creek" with its zip off to one side meaning that on those cold days, there's no chin chafing.

In comparison with the jackets, their pants are almost understated with only a few coming in the more bold colours seen with their jackets. Difficult to pick a favourite but I would probably have to opt for the Whisky Jack pants in Yellow so named after the Whisky Jack birds that hang out near skilifts and scavenge for food (particularly at Harmony chairlift on Whistler - see the proof below).

All in all, a superb range, even if it is designed for snowboarders. Next time I'll be looking at Oakley.

Cheers

Jez