The Seven Deadly Sins of Giving: Lust

If relationships are based on trust, then buying your partner a sturdy aluminum shovel with a telescoping handle, like Brooks-Range‘s Sharktooth Backcountry Shovel, is the off-piste equivalent of going all in. She’s not a hot-pink kind of girl? It comes in five other colors. $45; brooks-range.com

Tecnica Moon Boots

Tecnica‘s Moon Boots time-machined us back to Aspen circa 1983, when they were hugging every manicured toe in Little Nell’s. Judging by the rabid responses of our female staffers to the Vinils, these retro-chic reissues are still as covetable as they are ultrawarm. $125; tecnicausa.com

Powderidge Crest Snowshoe

Perhaps it’s merely cabin fever, and the craving is really just to get outside and blow off some steam? If that’s the case, a pair of well-priced and versatile snowshoes like Powderidge‘s Crest is the perfect remedy. $100; powderidgesnowshoes.com

PENANCE: Chastity

OK, guys, if you’re hoping to avoid a chilly reception with your gal this season, you need to know the rules.

Rule 1: She often mentions things she needs. Take notes.
Rule 2: It’s not about you. There’s nothing worse than getting a pair of minuscule undies. (See rule 3.)
Rule 3: Be realistic. Don’t get an extra-small when she’s really a medium.
Rule 4: It’s the thoughtfulness that counts. Think in pairs. If you’re giving ski boots, toss in a pair of SmartWool socks (smartwool.com). Still stumped? I guarantee she’ll love her new knee-high Uggs Rosabella boots ($200; uggs.com) and Patagonia’s mid-thigh-length Merino Sweater Coat ($149; patagonia.com) for chilly days around town. Eddie Bauer First Ascent‘s 800-fill-goose-down Downlight Sweater ($169; firstascent.com) paired with any wool base layer from Icebreaker (icebreaker.com) will keep her toasty on your mutual winter adventures. You can thank me later.