When planning a ski trip, the right choice of clothes can help guarantee you have an enjoyable time on the slopes. Don't be fooled into thinking street clothes provide protection against the elements. You need to prepare for rapidly changing temperatures and weather conditions. Although ski apparel represents a sizable investment, it makes good sense to purchase the best quality apparel possible. With proper care, these pieces will keep you warm and dry through many ski seasons.
Under Layer
Even in freezing weather, you can work up a sweat carving down the mountain. On its website, the Ski Bums organization recommends wearing a lightweight, snug-fitting base layer to hold in warmth and wick moisture away from your body. Most ski-clothing manufacturers sell thermal underwear separates made from high-performance synthetic fabrics, such as polypropylene. Lightweight fabrics provide insulation while allowing freedom of movement. Base-layer shirts and pants come in a variety of weights to suit all preferences and skill levels. Beginning skiers may prefer the extra warmth of breathable fleece next to the skin. Athletic skiers, meanwhile, might want a thinner base layer to prevent overheating.
Middle Layer
Skiers need various pieces of insulated, mid-layer ski clothing. You can tell mid-layer from base-layer ski clothing by its additional weight and warmth. Mid-layer fabrics often feature the same moisture-wicking qualities as thermal underwear. If you ski frequently, make sure you have at least two sets of mid-layer garments suitable for weather variations. Choose from upper-body pieces like zipped turtlenecks, vests and jackets in soft fleece. Purchase a pair of mid-layer pants for exceptionally cold ski days. Typically, a combination of base long-johns under insulated outer ski pants will keep you sufficiently warm.
Outer Layer
Outer-layer ski clothes provide protection from the elements. Jackets, parkas, traditional pants, bib pants and single-piece suits are among the various types of protective outerwear. Depending on weather conditions, you can opt for a fully insulated outer layer or a lightweight, non-insulated shell. Durable outer-layer separates come in a variety of high-performance synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, nylon and microfiber. Look for breathable, water-resistant or waterproof garments with sealed seams, to guard against fabric saturation and water intrusion.
Extremities
Your extremities also need protection from freezing temperatures, moisture and wind.
Avoid overly thick socks under snug-fitting ski boots --- the combination can reduce circulation to your feet and toes. Choose socks that stay up on your calves as you move. Look for lightweight, high-tech fabrics to wick moisture away from your feet.
The Talk Ski website advises wearing a lined helmet and heat-exchanging face mask to help retain body heat. This face-mask technology traps the warm air you exhale and uses it to heat the cold air you inhale, maintaining a comfortable temperature for your face, neck and ears.
Skiers prone to cold hands should consider adding an extra layer of insulation under ski gloves. Similar to base-layer clothing, thin, thermal glove liners also have moisture-wicking properties. Select a quality pair of insulated outer gloves with leather or PVC palm pads for added durability and improved grip.
References
- Ski Bums: What Should I Wear for a Day on the Slopes?
- Overstock.com; How to Buy Ski Apparel; Chris Weiss
- Sports Authority: How to Buy Ski Jackets and Parkas
- Dick's Sporting Goods: How to Buy Ski Pants and Bibs
- Ski Snow Valley Barrie: First Timers - What to Wear Skiing and Snowboarding
- Talk Ski: Guide to Good Ski Clothing
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