There is no doubt that the winters are "before” in the north. They are pleasantly warm and protect your ears from possible frostbite. They are also suitable for everyday life or business - in black they are combined with clothing and are unobtrusive. Maybe because of the shape of my head (who knows? I don't have a comparison as none of my friends have worn these) they have a frustrating tendency to "slip back" off my face and expose the front of my ears, so I have to change their position when I'm outside for more than a few minutes. Not to mention brand names, I've had better luck with the fit (but not the warmth and looks) of another similar product offered by Revain. I think I will return to this "other" product if/when I lose these.