Designed to keep you warm while being lightweight and allowing plenty of movement, ski clothes come in a variety of styles. The right clothes make the difference between an enjoyable day on the slopes and an uncomfortable one. You'll want to dress warmly enough for the cold but not so warmly that you break into a sweat while zipping down runs or waiting in the lift line.
Layers
Layering allows you to stay warm when you're sitting still or the sky is overcast, then easily transform your outfit to accommodate high activity or sun. Start with a base layer of winter underwear made of silk, lightweight wool or a synthetic material. Add ski pants and a sweater or fleece top. For moderate days, a lightweight ski jacket will finish the outfit. For colder weather, consider a jacket with a zip-out lining. Keep your hands and feet warm with gloves or mittens and ski socks. Wear only one pair of thin socks to avoid blisters. Wear a hat or ski helmet to warm your head.
Materials
Choose lightweight materials that wick moisture away from your body, such as propylene and Thinsulate. Avoid cotton and pure wool, as these will absorb your sweat and keep it next to your skin, where it can chill you. For outer layers, you want nonporous material that blocks wind yet breathes. Gore-Tex and other high-tech fibers fit the bill. Choose thin over thick materials. Several thin layers will keep you warmer than one thick layer, and you'll be more comfortable. Don't wear cotton sweat shirts, jeans or any other clothing that isn't waterproof and windproof.
Vents
Ski pants and jackets should have zippered vents in the armpits, sides and sides of the legs. If you find yourself getting too warm from exertion, unzipping the vents helps you cool off without needing to remove your jacket. If you grow chilled again, you can zip up the vents once more. Ski helmets also feature adjustable vents and removable liners to help you stay cool and safe.
Other Considerations
Wear mittens for colder days or if you have trouble with cold hands. They'll keep your fingers warmer than gloves. Use boot warmers and chemical hand warmers to keep your hands and feet warm without adding a lot of bulk. Slip on a fleece neck gator or tie a bandanna around your nose and mouth on very cold days to keep your face warmer. Goggles protect your eyes from sun and wind better than sunglasses.
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