The North Face

Named after the iciest, most daunting side of a mountain in the Northern Hemisphere, this upscale outfitter produces hard-core gear boasting the latest technology to battle frostbite and windchill. Guys can slip on its Unity Suit ($549), a one-piece, waterproof nylon ensemble designed with clever details such as vents to cool you down and reflectors to help rescuers find you if you happen to be buried by an avalanche. Snow bunnies can also pluck cold-weather accessories, such as faux-fur-lined caps with earflaps ($50), slush-resistant boots ($100–$250) and ergonomic backpacks ($89–$269).