So have you heard of Columbia Sportswear's new OMNI-HEAT technology? Alpine Shop began carrying the little silver dotted-liner this fall. [caption id="attachment_550" align="alignright" width="150" caption="Using small silver dots covering the entire liner, Columbia Sportswear claims their new OMNI-HEAT liners are 20% warmer than conventional liners. "][/caption] Basically take the concept behind an old Alpine Shop staple - the emergency space blanket for warmth - a reflective surface inhibits heat loss. Columbia's in-house testing has indicated 20% greater warmth using this new technology than a conventional lining. The difference, though, compared to the old space blanket, is that Columbia doesn't coat the entire lining in silver. Rather, they have coated the lining in little silver dots. That way, the theory goes, moisture and excessive heat can pass through the gaps between the dots, giving you a)warmth and b) breathability. So, repeat Alpine Shop's winter mantra for fun and safety in the outdoors: Stay warm. Don't overheat. Has Columbia succeeded? So far, reviews have been very positive. Try one on at your closest Alpine Shop or pick one up on-line at alpineshop.com. Until you get here, though, you'll just have to enjoy a few of their commercials! Have a favorite? Let us know!