Guide to Ski Clothing for Your Ski Holiday
If you are similar to me and grown up near a beach you may not have thought about going skiing or snowboarding. And definitely not thought about ski clothing. Then in the midst of winter a friend suggests a holiday in the snow. This sounded like a great idea at the time, until you find yourself stuck outside in sub-zero temperatures freezing your ass off because you packed unsuitable clothing. Lucky for you, I learnt from my very first trip to snow. Now, I pass on my wisdom in this beginner’s guide to ski clothing so you will know how to dress for skiing and snowboarding. To ensure you stay warm and dry allowing you to focus on having fun in the snow.
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What Should I Wear Skiing or Snowboarding?
What I have learnt is that a good ski outfit boils down to these two things: layers and appropriate accessories. You will need while skiing or snowboarding a minimum of three layers – a base layer, a mid layer and a waterproof layer. Then add accessories of ski socks, gloves, headwear and eyewear and you will be all set to have fun in the snow, even on the coldest of days.
Three Layers of Dress for Skiing or Snowboarding
1st Layer – Base Layer – Layer Closest to Your Body
The first piece of clothing you will want for your ski trip is a good set of base layers. You may be thinking thermal underwear will do, but they won’t. Thermal underwear is made to keep you warm but what you really need is a base layer that will keep you dry, and keeping dry will in turn, keep you warm. The base layer you need for a holiday in the snow will be made of either synthetic materials such as polyester o of natural fibres like merino wool. Both these materials are great wicking materials. Basically, they transport sweat off your skin so it can evaporate unlike materials such as cotton as it absorbs sweat and allows it to sit on your skin and then you will start to freeze. So choose a base layer of synthetic or natural fibres.
The natural fibres like bamboo and merino are more expensive than their polyester relatives however, to keep you comfortable so you enjoy your holiday in the snow will be well worth the extra dollars spent.
Tip: Check if you already own a base layer in your wardrobe, you may be surprised. I often wear my long yoga leggings to the snow. Friends who run, have worn their running leggings.
Check out these base layers
2nd Layer
Most only wear a mid-layer on the top half of their body. This is due to your legs doing most of the work while skiing and snowboarding and thus being warmer than the top half. Therefore, a base layer and top waterproof area on your legs should keep you dry and warm on the bottom half of your body. But you need to keep the top half warm also so on top of your base layer you will want to add a thin fleece or wool jumper. Best to be thin, as thin layers trap air between them keeping you warmer than a thick jumper. Once again, it is best to avoid cotton made clothing but choose a good wicking material mid-layer.
Check out these mid-layers:
Mens mid layer
Ladies mid layer
On very cold days some skiers and snowboarders wear a puffer vest or jacket for extra warmth. Best they are made from either synthetic filling or down. I must say, I have a puffer jacket which I mostly wear when I’m just walking around the village.
3rd Layer – Outer Layer
Lastly, you need a weatherproof outer layer over your base and middle layers to keep the elements out. Have a good quality ski jacket and salopettes – aka ski pants or trousers. These will keep the snow, sleet, rain and wind out and help to keep you warm. When choosing your outer layer you will come across waterproofing and breathability terminology. Whether you opt for a shell jacket or a jacket with some insulation, ensure this outer layer has a minimum of 5,000 (5K) of both breathability and waterproofing. You can get outer layer clothing with 10,000 (10k) and upwards which will provide even better weatherproofing from the elements. I have found people who spend a lot of time in the snow, unlike myself who might go for 1-2 weeks per year, often prefer the higher rating for their outer wear.
Mens
Womens
Tip: Your trouser leg and gaiters should go over the cuff of your ski boot to keep the snow out. Have a jacket with lots of pockets to put things you may need for the day – phone, tissues, finger warmers, water bottle, money.
Ski and Snowboard Accessories
To add to your three layers of ski clothing, there are some other essential accessories that should be included. Let’s start from the top.
Headwear – A Beanie or a Helmet
There was a time when wearing a helmet was a big controversy. But like when riding a bike, helmets can play a big safety part by providing protection during falls and accidents. I’m not saying you will ski into a tree or fall on a rock, but knowing you have that protection can help you against serious injury. If you decide that a helmet isn’t for you, then a beanie will keep your head nice and warm. There are plenty of beanies to choose from and is a personal choice. If you do decide to wear a helmet you can hire one when you rent skis, ski boots and / or snowboard from the ski rental at the resort.
Eyewear – Goggles and Sunglasses
If you are new to skiing and won’t be going very fast then sunglasses will probably do the job. However, ski goggles are made with special lenses to help you see on ‘low-light’ days plus have straps so the goggles sit comfortably against your face. Therefore, you don’t have to adjust them like you might with your sunglasses. And this will keep your hands free. Some ski hire shops will rent goggles if you don’t want to buy your own. Check out these goggles.
Gloves and Mittens
Gloves and / or mittens are needed to keep your hands warm. Without them, your hands can seize up and you can end up with chill blains, so definitely have a pair of waterproof gloves. I do prefer gloves over mittens as I find gloves are more versatile. I can still use my fingers to do Important things like unzip and zip up zippers to go to the toilet. Or to fix bindings, etc. or to help someone else who may need help with their equipment.
Hip and Bum Protection
Moving on down your body I come to the mid-section, or bum and hips. Bum and Hip protection isn’t absolutely necessary for your ski and snowboard gear but if you plan on doing plenty of jumping and going fast which may lead to falls, then having hip and bum protection may be very useful. Check out some hip and bum protection here.
Socks
The only other important item in your ski or snowboard wardrobe should be your socks. Not any old sock will do when you are skiing or snowboarding, but socks designed to go under boots.
Tip: Don’t wear really thick or cotton socks as they can absorb sweat and give you cold and heavy feet. really thick, or wearing two pairs of socks can cause a lot of friction in your boot and give you blisters. Best to stick to ski socks such as these.
What Ski Clothing Do I Need to Buy?
As a newbie skier or snowboarder I suggest you only buy your base layer and socks. Nobody will want to wear somebody else’s socks or base layer! And nobody would lend them either! All the other layers and accessories you could borrow or rent. After your first trip you will have a better idea of exactly what you need and can buy accordingly.
Where to Buy Ski and Snowboard Clothing?
I wouldn’t suggest you buy any clothing or accessories in the resorts unless you really have to because they will be very expensive. There are many stores off-mountain where you could purchase clothing. Brick and mortar stores like TK Maxx, Aldi (each year in Australia Aldi have their big ski sale) and don’t forget online through Amazon.
Ski Trip Packing List
Lay out all you ski clothes on the floor to see what you have
.
Whether it is your first time skiing or snowboarding or you have been hitting the slopes for years, you will need to pack for your trip. Whether it be for a week of fun or a work and ski season in the snow, you will need some essential items to pack. So here is my guide as to what to pack for a ski trip.
Ski Clothing Essentials
Waterproof ski jacket (minimum waterproof rating 10.000mm)
Waterproof ski pants/Board pants (minimum waterproof rating 10.000mm)
Mid layer shirt: long sleeve sweatshirt, woollen sweater, lightweight down jacket
Thermal tops/ Base layers (non-cotton)
Thermal pants (non-cotton)
Neck warmer/Gaiter
Wool ski socks
Fleece jacket
Beanie
TIP: As with ski and snowboarding gear, you can rent the waterproof jacket and pants
Ski and Snowboard Accessories
Goggles
Waterproof and insulated ski gloves or mittens with inner layer
TIP: If you are knew to skiing and / or snowboarding you might want to take some protective gear such as wrist guards, knee pads and protective shorts/bum pads – just in case you fall and land on these areas.
Optional extras
Pocket sized sunscreen
Lip balm
Pocket tissues
Goggles wiper
Hand warmers
Water bottle or hydration pack
Small backpack to carry all your items
Apres Ski and Off the Slopes Clothing
Winter jacket
Casual tops
Jeans/Long pants
Sweaters/Jumpers
Winter hat
Scarf
Gloves
Underwear
Pyjamas
Bathing suit – yes, many resorts have indoor pools, hot spas or thermal pools nearby
Slippers
Flip flops / thongs which are great to wear to shower blocks
Waterproof non-slip shoes or boots
Socks
Toiletries
Toothbrush &Toothpaste
Floss and mouthwash
Cleanser & Moisturizer
Comb, brush and other hair accessories
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Personal hygiene items
Soap / shower wash
Shaving gel & Razor
Cosmetics and makeup remover
Nail clippers and nail file
Glasses/Contacts
First aid kit
Muscle relief cream
Any medicals
Paperwork
Passport
Ski Tickets/ Passes
Money
Identification/Driver’s license
Accommodation, Transport & ski hire details and confirmation
Travel insurance details
Electricals
Mobile phone and charger
Travel adapter
Camera/GoPro and charger
Headphones
Powerbank
Other
Travel pillow
Day Pack/Purse
Laundry bag
Luggage lock and tag
What Luggage is best for a trip to the Snow?
Wheels don’t roll in the snow so your luggage should be easy to carry through the snow.
And just like that, You Are Packed For a Holiday in the Snow
Now you have all the gear, all you need are some lessons and where the best apres ski is. See you on the slopes, or by the fireplace! I’d love to hear your thoughts on this post in the comments following.
Thanks for this informative list. I grew up somewhere where it doesn’t snow, so I’m clueless with this kinda stuff!
You really thought of it all! I love the bum protection. Skiing really does require a lot of packing. Once I packed so many things but forgot my pants!
Having grown up at the beach I am not the best on skiis so i thought the bum protection was brilliant!
A helpful guide for skiing novices like me who always feel the cold. Thank you!
This post is really helpful! I have never been skiing before, so I will definitely refer back to this post when I finally go. Thanks for sharing!
This is a great post, I love that you explained the different layers (base layers etc) as I think that can trip people up when they’re not used to cold weather.And it makes such a big difference!
I preferred gloves over mittens too until I decided to go skiing in Canada… You definitely need to keep all your fingers nice and warm together there 🙂
Yes, sometimes you don’t know little tricks until you experience them first hand.
This is so helpful! I haven’t been skiing in ages but this is a good reminder that I should go soon!
Good to hear. I hope you enjoy your next visit to the snow.
I love the snow, but the thought of packing for it is so daunting! Thanks for this handy list.
Thanks for the very detailed list. This year was my first time in snow and this list is going to be very useful for my future ski trip.
Wonderful, glad my list is helpful.
Very helpful guide for skiing novices. We’ve collected most of these items over the years for our snow vacations. We usually don’t ski, but do go to the snow. You can have a much longer snowball fight if you have proper gloves and clothing.