An ankle length insulated skirt, the Skhoop "Original" has become my favorite cold weather outer layer for my legs. It is windproof and water resistant with zippers up both sides. One side has a full length zipper which makes it super easy to take the skirt off and on, and the other side zips from my hip to below my knee giving me plenty of options for cooling off or trapping warmth. The side zippers also give me a huge range of motion allowing me to cross country ski, hike, climb trees, make snow angels or play in the snow in just about any way possible.
With only one or two base layers underneath I have been warm in Alaska winter temps below -15°F. While playing I typically have the sides wide open and once I stop and begin to cool off I zip up and instantly block the wind and cold. Snow easily brushes from the water resistant material and I can comfortably sit on the snow without worry of getting wet. Two good sized front zipper pockets allow for me to securely stash a few items including my phone, a snack, chapstick, dog treats or a small pair of gloves. Elastic at the back of the waist gives me some room to add thicker layers underneath if needed and gives me even more range of motion. Belt loops allow me to comfortably wear a belt, which is a necessary item in my mind as a belt can be a great emergency piece of gear to have in the backcountry with many possible uses.
My Skhoop Original skirt is kept out all winter in a spot as easy to grab as my jacket. With regular wear it still is still in great condition . I'm going into my second Alaska winter of using it as my main outer layer for all my winter play and I imagine I will be using it for many years to come. I love this skirt!
http://www.skhoop.us/collections/skirts/products/original-skirt
