Trendy and Functional Lifestyle Jackets for Winter in Chicago, IL

Winters in Chicago, IL, are known for their bitter cold, heavy winds, and unpredictable weather. With temperatures regularly dipping below freezing, coupled with frequent lake-effect snow, staying warm and comfortable is a daily challenge. Whether you're commuting through the city's chilly streets, or braving the wind off Lake Michigan, a reliable jacket is essential to keep you protected from the elements. A good lifestyle jacket not only provides warmth but also allows you to stay active and stylish throughout the chilly season.

In a city like Chicago, where winters can quickly turn from mild to brutal, having the right type of jacket for winter weather is important. High-quality, functional, and warm lifestyle jackets can make all the difference in staying comfortable and healthy. Thermal outerwear, designed to trap heat and block out cold winds, is particularly important for combating Chicago’s harsh winter conditions. Luckily, there are a variety of trendy and functional lifestyle jackets that can be used for all types of activities. Some of these choices include:

1. Wool Coats

Wool coats are a classic lifestyle jacket for winter fashion and functionality in Chicago. Their dense fabric provides excellent insulation, making them perfect for staying warm without the need for bulky layers. Wool is also naturally water-resistant, which helps to keep you dry during snow and rain. Available in various styles, wool coats can be both elegant and versatile, making them ideal for work, dinners, or a day out in the city. 

2. Parkas

For those who need maximum protection against Chicago’s extreme winter temperatures, parkas are a great option. These lifestyle jackets are known for their full coverage, featuring hoods with fur trims for added warmth and protection against fierce winds. Often lined with down or synthetic insulation, parkas are designed to trap heat and keep your body warm even during the coldest days. With their longer length and windproof qualities, parkas are perfect for battling freezing temperatures and snowstorms.

3. Puffer Jackets

Puffer jackets have become one of the most popular choices for winter wear, thanks to their lightweight yet highly insulating design. Normally filled with synthetic materials, these lifestyle jackets trap heat while remaining breathable. Puffer jackets are perfect for staying active in the cold, whether you’re running errands around the city or enjoying outdoor winter activities. 

4. Fleece Coats

For days when the temperatures are chilly but not freezing, fleece coats are the perfect lightweight lifestyle jacket. They provide a softer, cozier feel compared to heavier jackets while still offering warmth. Fleece coats are especially effective when layered over other thermal outerwear like a wool sweater or under a heavier jacket. Their casual style makes them ideal for weekend outings or daily errands.

5. Windbreakers

While not as insulating as the other lifestyle jackets on this list, windbreakers are an essential part of any wardrobe in windy cities like Chicago. Windbreakers are designed to block out cold, gusty winds, which can make the already chilly air feel even colder. These lightweight jackets are perfect for layering over other pieces of thermal outerwear when you need an extra shield against the wind.

6. Ski Jackets

Ski jackets are specifically designed to handle the intense conditions of snowy slopes, but they are also perfect for Chicago’s cold, snowy winters. Built with advanced technology for insulation, waterproofing, and breathability, ski clothing offers outstanding protection against both snow and wind. Most ski jackets are equipped with features such as adjustable hoods, ventilation zippers, and snow skirts to keep snow from getting in while you're active. If you enjoy winter sports or just need a functional coat for harsh weather, consider buying a ski jacket from a local ski shop.

Visit Us for Stylish and Functional Lifestyle Jackets

Are you looking for a trendy and functional lifestyle jacket that protects against the harsh winter conditions in Chicago, IL? Visit us at Williams Ski & Patio for a wide selection of lifestyle jackets, as well as high-performance ski clothing to keep you warm and comfortable during the winter months. From cozy thermal outerwear to durable ski jackets, we offer options designed to keep you warm and dry both on and off the slopes. We also provide ski equipment rentals to make your winter adventures even more enjoyable. If you're located in Winnetka, Deerfield, Glenview, Glencoe, Wilmette, Chicago, or Evanston, IL, stop by our local ski store in Highland Park, IL to explore our trendy selection of lifestyle jackets and ski gear!

Why It's Important to Visit a Local Ski Shop

Whether you're a seasoned skier or just getting started, purchasing your gear from your local ski shop can make a significant difference in your experience on the slopes. While skiing can be a casual hobby or a serious passion, it’s vital to use the right equipment, receive expert advice, and find a dedicated community to ensure that you make the most of your investment. Your skiing excursion begins with where you source your equipment. In the digital age, shopping online might seem like the most convenient option, but there are many advantages to supporting and visiting a local ski shop. Here’s why it’s worth the trip.

Experienced Advice and Personalized Service

One of the biggest advantages of shopping at a local ski shop is the opportunity to talk to seasoned skiers. The employees at local ski shops tend to be passionate skiers themselves and are well-versed in all aspects of the sport. Whether you’re looking for the best skis for your skill level, proper boots for your foot type, or clothing that will keep you warm and dry on the slopes, local ski shop employees will be more than happy to share their knowledge and guide you toward the right equipment.

Every skier has unique needs based on their ability, their experience level, the terrain they ski on, and their personal preferences. It’s vital to choose the right gear to stay safe when you hit the slopes. When you visit a local ski shop, the employees will take the time to understand your specific requirements and recommend gear that suits you best. This kind of personalized service is something that online shopping simply can’t replicate.

Quality

Local ski shops offer high-quality gear, carefully curated to meet the needs of skiers in the area. Since they cater to the local market, local shops tend to stock equipment that's ideal for the specific conditions you’ll encounter. Whether you’re skiing on powdery mountain slopes or icy trails, a local shop will have the right gear to suit your needs. You’ll be able to choose from trusted, high-quality brands that have stood the test of time. In most cases, the employees will have tried this gear themselves, giving you a firsthand account of what to expect. 

Fitting and Customization

Having clothing and equipment that fits properly is essential to your safety, comfort, and performance. There are many options out there, so it can be difficult to know where to begin. At your local ski shop, you will get knowledgeable assistance as you try boots, skis, and bindings. Ski boot fitting, in particular, is an art in itself; a professional fitter will ensure that your boots are snug yet comfortable, offering the best performance and keeping you safe.

Many local ski shops also offer customization services, such as custom footbeds for boots, ski bindings adjustments, and even ski tuning and waxing. They also offer professional maintenance services to help keep your gear in top condition for as long as possible. When you shop locally, you can experience these services firsthand, ensuring that your gear fits perfectly and is ready anytime you need it.

Try Before You Buy

Unlike online retailers, a local ski shop allows you to physically inspect, touch, and try out the equipment before making a decision. You can feel the quality of the materials, compare different models, and even test out boots and skis to see how they fit. This hands-on experience helps you make more informed decisions and reduces the chances of making a purchase that you regret. For something as important as ski gear, this tactile experience is invaluable.

Rentals

Whether you're new to skiing or just visiting the area, a local ski shop should be your go-to destination for renting gear. Renting from a local shop gives you the opportunity to test different models and styles, helping you decide which gear works best for your skiing style before you invest in your own set. You’ll have experienced guidance throughout the process, allowing you to make decisions with confidence. 

Community Connection

Local ski shops are more than just places to find the best gear; they are community hubs for skiers and snowboarders. When you shop at your local ski shop, you’re supporting your community and connecting with like-minded people. Local businesses are a vital part of any town or city, and the money spent at these shops stays in the area, contributing to local jobs and boosting the economy. By choosing to support small, independent businesses over large corporate chains, you help these shops remain open and accessible for years to come, allowing your local culture to thrive. Building a sense of community fosters a deeper connection to the sport and with your neighbors. 

A Better Ski Experience Starts at Your Local Shop

Visiting your local ski shop is more than just a shopping trip; it's about investing in your skiing experience. When you get personal attention and experienced advice, the benefits of shopping locally are clear. Not only will you get the best equipment tailored to your needs, but you'll also be supporting a small business that’s deeply rooted in the skiing community.

Next time you need new gear, equipment maintenance, or just want to chat with fellow skiers in the Highland Park, IL area, make sure to stop by Williams Ski & Patio. You’ll walk away with the perfect gear, expert tips, and a great idea of how to get started. We can’t wait to welcome you to our local skiing community; contact us or visit today to learn more!

Must-Have Furniture Pieces for Hosting Guests

As warmer weather approaches, it's time to take advantage of outdoor entertaining spaces. Whether you have a spacious backyard or a cozy patio, creating an inviting atmosphere for your guests is key to hosting memorable gatherings.

• Comfortable Seating – The cornerstone of outdoor entertaining is comfortable seating. Invest in versatile pieces such as lounge chairs, sofas, and sectionals that provide ample seating for your guests. Opt for weather-resistant materials like wicker, rattan, or durable outdoor fabrics that can withstand the elements while still offering comfort and style. Consider adding cushions and throw pillows to enhance coziness and add a pop of color to your outdoor space.

• Dining Sets – A dining set is essential for hosting outdoor meals and gatherings. Choose a sturdy dining table paired with chairs or benches that can accommodate your guests comfortably. Look for materials like teak, aluminum, or powder-coated steel that are both durable and low-maintenance. To create a cohesive look, coordinate your dining set with your existing outdoor decor and accessories.

• Shade Solutions – Shield your guests from the sun's rays with shade solutions such as umbrellas, pergolas, or retractable awnings. Not only do these provide relief from the heat, but they also create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for outdoor dining and relaxation. Choose options that offer adjustable features to accommodate changing sunlight throughout the day.

• Cozy Accessories – Enhance the ambiance of your outdoor space with cozy accessories like outdoor rugs, lanterns, string lights, and throw blankets. These elements add warmth, texture, and personality to your patio or deck, creating an inviting atmosphere for your guests to enjoy. Experiment with different styles and patterns to reflect your personal taste and complement your existing decor.

Visit Our Outdoor Furniture
Design Gallery Today!

With the right furniture pieces and accessories, you can create an outdoor entertaining oasis that is perfect for hosting guests and making lasting memories. Explore our collection of premium outdoor patio furniture and accessories today. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, a poolside gathering, or a cozy evening under the stars, we have everything you need to create the perfect outdoor oasis. Shop now and make your outdoor entertaining dreams a reality!

The Clothing Every Skier Needs

Ski Clothing Essentials

If you are going skiing, that means you will be in cold weather. Snow is not possible without it being cold enough out. When you are flying up and down the slopes, it gets even colder than it already is. Then you also probably will sweat which will make matters worse. So, you need to protect yourself from the dangers of spending prolonged periods in the cold, which is done through wearing warm clothing. So, when you go skiing, what clothing is a must? Well, the essentials every skier should have includes:

• ·Ski Socks

• Gloves

• Goggles

• Base Layers/ Thermals

• Mid Layers

• Ski Pants

• Ski Jacket

These essentials will help keep you warm and comfortable while on the slopes. The exact styles, types, and brands of each piece of clothing will be up to you and your personal preferences. For example, some people prefer mittens over gloves. It is your preferences that will dictate exactly what you wear. If you are new to skiing, you probably do not know where to go to buy your ski gear. You can always purchase online, but we recommend visiting your local ski shop because they have everything you need, you can try things on, and you can get professional advice from the staff there.

Visit Our Local Ski Shop Today!

William Ski & Patio is a ski shop serving the Northbrook, IL area. We offer everything that you need to enjoy the slopes. You can find all your ski rental equipment here including boots, skis, ski poles, and helmets. We also have all your ski clothing needs such as thermal outerwear, ski jackets, gloves, mittens, hats, ski goggles, and anything else you may need. Visit us today for all your ski clothing needs!

Advantages of Thermal Outerwear

Whether you want to take your dog out for a walk on a snowy day or want to hit the slopes with some friends, it is essential to wear the proper clothing. Instead of wearing multiple layers to keep you warm, you should invest in thermal outerwear. Thermal outwear is perfect for any winter activity, keeping you dry, warm, and comfortable. Still not sure if thermal outwear is necessary? Browse the various benefits below.

Protection Against the Elements: One of the main benefits of thermal outwear is it keeps you warm. Thermal outwear provides an insulation layer between your skin and other clothing, keeping you nice and toasty while you are outside.

Sweat-Wicking: Wearing multiple layers to keep you warm will probably make you feel wet and sweaty. Thermal outerwear is breathable, so you won’t have to worry about sweating when moving around.

Durable: The last thing you want to do is buy new clothing every time the winter months come around. Thermal outerwear is made of synthetic fibers that are resistant to wear and tear, so it can last for multiple winter seasons.

Comfortable: When you are participating in outdoor activities, you want to be able to move around comfortably. Thermal outwear takes the shape of your body, so you won’t be restricted while enjoying outdoor activities.

Visit Our Local Ski Shop Today!

Ready to invest in warm, comfortable, and stylish thermal outerwear? Our local ski shop at Williams Ski & Patio has various options. Our thermal outerwear is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and more. Visit us today! Our staff would love to help you find the perfect fit for your needs. We welcome those in Northbrook, Lake Forest, Highland Park, Chicago, Wilmette, Evanston, IL, and beyond.

How to Care for Wicker Furniture

Guide for Maintaining & Protecting Wicker Furniture

Outdoor wicker furniture is popular for use as patio furniture. It is made from tightly woven materials such as paper, bamboo, rattan, and other natural materials. Wicker refers to the method used to create the furniture and not the materials themselves. The issue that many people experience with wicker is the difficulty of cleaning. The tightly woven materials make it easy for dirt, dust, and debris to get trapped in all the little crevices.

So, how do you clean and maintain your patio furniture? The first step that we recommend you take is to buy covers for your furniture. The sun, rain, and elements can cause wicker to fade and deteriorate, but a cover will help prevent that. Besides the protective coverings, you should regularly brush off and vacuum. After you vacuum or brush it off, you should wash the wicker with a soft brush and soapy water mixed with 1 or 2 tablespoons of ammonia. There may still be dirt trapped in the crevices which can be removed using a can of compressed air which is traditionally used for keyboards and other electronics. After you clean the wicker furniture and there is still some dirt and grime, use a mild oil-based soap such as Murphy’s Oil Soap with water.

Visit Us Today for High-Quality Patio Furniture!

At Williams Ski & Patio, we provide high-quality patio furniture to the Northbrook, IL area. Wicker furniture is a very popular type of patio furniture. It is made from tightly woven natural materials that look beautiful and elegant. You can buy chairs, tables, and benches made from wicker to make a complete patio furniture set. Visit us today for all your outdoor patio furniture needs!

Benefits of Wicker Outdoor Patio Furniture

There is no better place to be on a sunny day than relaxing on your patio. If you need new patio furniture, you have many materials and styles to choose from. Wicker has been around for centuries and is still increasingly popular outdoor patio furniture due to its beauty, functionality, and durability. Browse the following section to learn more about the benefits of wicker outdoor patio furniture.

Easy to Clean: If you are looking for outdoor patio furniture that is low maintenance, wicker furniture may be the best choice. All you need to do is hose down your wicker furniture every once and while, and it will look as good as new.

Durable: One of the main reasons to invest in wicker furniture is its extreme durability. Wicker outdoor patio furniture is designed to withstand various weather elements such as heat, snow, rain, and more. You can have peace of mind knowing your wicker furniture will last for years to come.

Aesthetics: Wicker outdoor patio furniture's design and texture give it a classic and natural look. You can place your wicker furniture anywhere in your outdoor space, and it will immediately add beauty to your property.

Light Weight: When you buy heavy furniture, you will likely keep it in one spot, so you don't have to go through the hassle of trying to move it. Even with wicker furniture's long-lasting quality, it is extremely lightweight. If you want to change the layout of your patio or move furniture to different areas of your backyard, you can do it effortlessly.

Call or Visit Us Today for Beautiful Outdoor Patio Furniture!

Are you ready to add wicker furniture to your patio area? At Williams Ski & Patio, we have a wide selection of unique wicker outdoor patio furniture and will help you find the perfect pieces for you and your home. Call or visit us today for more information. We welcome those living in Northbrook, Lake Forest, Highland Park, Winnetka Deerfield, Glenview, IL, and beyond!

Choosing the Right Outdoor Patio Furniture

The right patio furniture brings style, comfort, and function to your outdoor living space. There are endless options when it comes to choosing the right set for your space. Thoughtful, careful planning will help turn your patio into the perfect place for lounging, dining, entertaining, or whatever it is that you want to do. If you’re considering a new outdoor patio furniture purchase, take the following steps as you make your decision:

Make a List

The first step when shopping for outdoor patio furniture is to determine what your individual needs are. Patio furniture sets come in many combinations to fill different functions. Do you need a full outdoor dining space or are you just looking to create a cozy reading nook? Make a list of activities you would like to do in your outdoor living space and use it as a template to determine which type of patio furniture is necessary. 

Try Things Out

When shopping for outdoor patio furniture, especially seating options such as chairs and sofas, make sure to try it out before purchasing it. You want to make sure that your seating options are comfortable, sturdy, and correctly sized to meet your specific needs. We recommend measuring the space where you intend to install your furniture before you go shopping so you know exactly the dimensions you will need. 

Consider Your Maintenance Needs

In most cases, you will want to opt for easy-care outdoor patio furniture to give you more time to devote to enjoying your space instead of working on upkeep. Most metal, teak, and all-weather wicker outdoor patio furniture are made to stand up to any weather-related challenges. You can even choose accessories such as cushions and pillows that have removable covers, making it easier than ever to keep them clean! 

Plan for the offseason

Here in Illinois we are used to difficult winter weather. Protective furniture covers are key. Most quality outdoor furniture can withstand the cold and moisture but covering it will prolong the life of the frames. If you opt to store it in a shed/garage make sure you store it upright so not freeze damage occurs. Cushions should always be stored indoors for the winter.

Think About Your Color Preferences

Choosing a color palette or design for outdoor patio furniture is not like choosing indoor furniture. You can be as neutral or bold as you like; there will be a variety of options in our showroom! Look for pieces that play up the colors found in your landscaping, your home’s exterior, or other outdoor decoration pieces. Choose bold tones for cushions and accent pieces to draw the eye. 

Invest in Quality

When it comes to patio furniture, you get what you pay for. Investing in quality items will allow you to get a better deal for your money, enjoying the same pieces for years to come. If you’re working with a budget, splurge on items that will be used more often, such as dining tables or seating. You can save money on smaller accessories and accent pieces that are used less often. 

If you’re looking for the best options for your outdoor living space this summer, visit Williams Ski & Patio! Conveniently located in Highland Park, IL, we serve customers from throughout the surrounding area, such as Lake Forest, Deerfield, Northbrook, Evanston, Glenview, and beyond!