Swoosh in style

$150

These wool-lined gloves come with waterproof mitt shells that provide added warmth. The palms of the mitts are made with durable, cold-resistant polyester and are laminated with a rubbery, flexible fabric that creates a strong grip. Founder Ron Gregg got his entrepreneurial start in his basement, designing Gore-Tex and polyester boot covers. He founded Seattle-based Outdoor Research and gradually introduced more protective apparel, until his tragic death in a 2003 avalanche. Later that year, Dan Nordstrom, 47, a member of the well-known retail family, bought the business. The company's gloves are worn by American Army soldiers and Marines and are sold at top sporting goods stores, including Eastern Mountain Sports.