.
Search
Email this article Discuss this article

August rain heralds winter coats

As early as it is, it's time to get ready

Mike W. Bryant
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Aug 24/01) - If you're still looking forward to some more summer, don't read this story.

It is supposed to be the long, lazy days of summer, not the rainy, windy weeks of autumn, right?



Mike Weaver and Devore sales clerk Peter Epp shows off his selection of winterwear. Jack Frost isn't here yet, but Epp says now is the time to get ready. - W. Bryant/NNSL photo



Of course, a recent trip to Long Lake beach is enough to shatter the illusion completely.

"For the last week I haven't even had to go up on the tower," reports lifeguard Sarah Ward, who was sitting glumly and bored behind an unoccupied beach.

"When it's raining, we just sit in here (the lifeguard shack) with the heater going."

Suddenly, thoughts of the fast approaching winter -- no, say it isn't so! -- came to mind, and the realization that this reporter was sorely unprepared.

The dreadful prospect had arrived -- it's time to start thinking about a new winter coat.

It just takes a trip down to Weaver and Devore's to find such an item was not only necessary (though many stores that will suit your needs just fine) but informative as well.

"I think it would be prudent to start thinking about your winterwear now," says sales clerk Peter Epp, who was more than happy to offer his opinion regarding what is most practical for local winter dwellers.

"Especially if you're new to the North. It's always better to find out what you need ahead of time up here."

As for winter coats, Epp says that it's important to consider what sort of winter activity one may find themselves engaged in.

Obviously, walking from car to office door is not the same as spending a weekend on a snowmobile. The difference between the two scenarios will also affect the amount one spends.

The Canada Goose Resolute, Epp says, is a good choice for a winter coat regardless of activity, because it is relatively inexpensive compared to others ($350), and most importantly, it will keep the wearer warm in a variety of situations.

"They're very popular," says Epp. "They're filled with goose down, and you can go ski-dooing in them, but not if you're going to be spending a lot of time outdoors."

For the winter outdoor enthusiast, Epp recommends the Canada Goose Snow Mantra. Retailing at $469, it comes with a set of hand warmers, built-in neck warmer, and is filled with goose down, which is warmer than duck down.

"It has some extra bells and whistles like the side zippers. It makes it easier to sit down on your snowmobile."

Besides the winter coat, one will have to also ponder winter boots, gloves, scarfs, and well ... be prepared to shell out the bucks if starting from scratch.

Regardless, Epp feels the most important item to own in winter is a good pair of long underwear.

"The biggest enemy in cold weather is sweat," Epp says. "Polypropylene long underwear wicks moisture away from your skin to keep you dry."