Buzz
When heading out to the slopes, staying warm is just one part of the equation. Given the level of activity, you’ll also need fabrics that draw moisture away from your skin. The best strategy for dressing for skiing is to layer your clothing properly. Begin with the base layer, followed by the mid layer, and finish with an outer layer that ensures protection against the elements.
Steps
Starting with the Base Layer
Opt for a fabric with a “waffle” texture. These materials are excellent at drawing moisture away from your skin while providing warmth in extremely cold weather. Choose a base layer that has a textured pattern similar to a waffle for optimal comfort and performance.
Wear a thermal top. Select a lightweight, moisture-wicking thermal shirt that fits snugly against your chest. Go for synthetic options like polypropylene, or wool, which is also an excellent choice due to its natural heat regulation, sweat-wicking abilities, and antimicrobial properties. Wool maintains about 80% of its insulating power even when wet. Avoid cotton, as it lacks the moisture-wicking capability needed for skiing and loses its insulating properties when soaked. Ensure the top stays in place as you move around.
Put on thermal pants. Make sure these pants are slim-fitting and close to your legs. This close-fitting design helps trap warmth effectively. Opt for a synthetic material that will wick moisture away from your skin.
Adding the Middle Layer
Go for fleece. Fleece comes in various weights and is excellent for both moisture-wicking and providing insulation. Cotton, on the other hand, won’t wick moisture or insulate as efficiently. Choose a fleece that balances being snug enough to trap heat but not so bulky that it’s difficult to layer your outer clothing over it.
Wear a mid-layer sweater. A sweater or jacket with a half- or full-zip and a stand-up collar will add warmth. Look for pieces with underarm zippers, known as “pit vents,” to help regulate sweat and keep you comfortable during intense activity.
Wear a soft shell for windy conditions. Soft shell jackets are designed to fit closely to your body while offering enough stretch for comfort. They come in both wind-resistant and windproof options. Look for soft shells that have a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating on the exterior to enhance their weather protection.
Put on mid-layer pants, if necessary. Mid-layer pants are optional with today’s advanced fabric technology in base and outer layers. If you’re uncertain, consult with the staff at your ski shop for advice. If you do need mid-layer pants, choose a snug-fitting pair to ensure your outer layer slides on without difficulty.
Adding the Outer Layer
Slide on a ski jacket. Select a jacket that offers enough room to accommodate your layers without being too loose or bulky. Ensure it’s a proper ski jacket—designed for the slopes—with waterproofing and insulation. Ski jackets are equipped with specialized fabrics, insulation, and features, such as waterproof-breathable materials, heat-retaining insulation, and a powder skirt or adjustable cuffs and hem to keep snow out.
Put on ski pants. Choose ski-specific pants designed for mountain conditions. These pants come with an inner powder cuff that slides over your boots to prevent snow from entering. Ensure they fit comfortably and allow for easy movement during skiing.
Wear ski socks. Only wear one pair of socks to prevent excessive sweating. Your socks should be thin yet warm. If you're renting boots, opt for slightly thicker socks for added comfort. Ensure your socks have padding to shield your shins from pressure caused by the ski boots.
Put on ski boots. Regular boots won't attach to your skis. Invest in or rent boots that fit the width of your feet comfortably. Look for boots that offer good flexibility. If you're not racing, avoid purchasing stiff, race-specific boots designed for maximum control.
Protecting Your Head, Face, and Hands
Protect exposed skin with sunblock. This is essential no matter what the weather is like on the slopes, as sunburns can occur even in cold or cloudy conditions. Use SPF 15-30, depending on your skin type.
- Don't forget your lips! Apply lip balm with SPF 15 or higher.
Put on ski gloves. Ensure your gloves are specifically designed for skiing. Ordinary gloves won’t provide the necessary protection. Ski gloves are thicker, often feature a rubberized exterior for a better grip, and offer additional warmth. For extreme cold or challenging conditions, look for gloves with wrist protection and a built-in inner glove layer.
Wear goggles. It's worth investing in high-quality goggles. They not only protect against snow blindness but also help you navigate through overcast conditions with minimal shadows. Additionally, they shield your eyes from flying debris.
- After a day on the slopes, let your goggles dry outside their case to avoid mold buildup.
Slip on a gaiter. A gaiter is a tubular piece of fabric you wear around your neck. On especially chilly days, pull it over your mouth for added warmth. Always make sure the bottom of the gaiter stays under your ski jacket collar to keep out the cold.
Put on a helmet. While a hat will keep your head warm, a helmet provides essential protection against head injuries. Make wearing one a non-negotiable rule in any skiing conditions. Helmets come in various styles, from simple, low-tech options to high-tech models with built-in headphones for listening to music while skiing.
- For extra warmth, consider wearing a snug-fitting hat under the helmet.
Lists of Ski Clothing and Accessories
Ski Clothing List
Ski Accessories-
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the range of ski gear options, don’t hesitate to ask a store salesperson for guidance. They can help you select the best equipment suited to your needs.
The tips shared in this section come from the personal experiences of Mytour readers, like yourself. If you have any helpful advice you’d like to contribute to Mytour, feel free to share it in the field below.
- Adjust your goggles to ensure there's no gap between them and your hair or hat. It’ll give a more polished appearance if that matters to you.
- It’s better to be slightly too warm than too cold. You can always remove layers if you start feeling too hot.
Warnings
- Wearing too few clothes can lead to frostbite, while wearing too many may cause overheating.
- Skiing, like many sports, carries inherent risks. If you're new to skiing, it's a good idea to practice with a trained instructor.
