When you decide to go skiing, you must realize that many items are indispensable--besides the obvious, skis and boots. The proper apparel can keep you from being too hot or too cold while on the slopes.
First Layer
Under your clothing you'll need thermal or long underwear--both top and bottom. Thermal apparel helps keep your body warm while removing any perspiration or moisture from your body. When perspiration rests on your body, it cools you down too much and can cause discomfort and colder-than-normal body temperature. By removing this moisture, thermal underwear helps to keep you at an ideal body temperature while you are skiing.
If you do not have thermals, other possible substitutions include any clothing that is made of silk, wool, polyester or polypropylene. Although not as effective as thermals, clothing made of these materials will have a similar effect.
Second and Third Layers
For your second layer, you should wear normal clothes that are not too restrictive. Apparel such as a sweater, a long-sleeve T-shirt, a fleece jacket and a sweatshirt can help keep you warm. Pack many different types of clothing for your second layer, as this is the one layer you can adjust more easily based on the temperature. If it is extremely cold and windy out, a sweater or a fleece jacket is the best choice. If the temperature is around freezing or a little above, you may want to wear a very light shirt or even none at all on top of your first layer.
For your outermost layer, you should wear waterproof clothing. This includes ski or snow pants and a winter jacket. These items help keep you dry from the ice and snow. If you will be skiing for multiple days, consider packing numerous jackets or pairs of pants in order to ensure that you are not putting on wet or dirty clothing.
Skiing Accessories
Before you are ready to ski, you must ensure you have the correct accessories for both safety and warmth. Ski gloves and ear coverings--not a hat--are very helpful in keeping your hands and ears warm. Do not use a hat, since you should be wearing a helmet and most helmets will not fit snugly over a winter hat.
If you desire, pack hand or toe warmers as well, as they can be placed inside your gloves and boots to keep you warm on the slopes.
Thermal or ski socks keep your feet dry and warm inside your boots, while goggles prevent snow and ice from hitting your face. Goggles also protect your face when you fall.
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