Ski & Snow Wear

This is your foundation: the layer worn next to your skin. Its job is moisture-management and temperature regulation. Skiing involves bursts of activity (carving down runs) and long periods of waiting (on chairlifts) so your base layer must adapt.

• Choose materials like Merino wool or high-performance synthetics, not cotton (cotton holds moisture and chills you).
• A snug fit works best: it keeps warmth close and sweat moving away from your skin.
• Consider bottoms as well as a top: especially when it’s bitter or windy.

For younger or less experienced skiers, extra layering here pays off because they’ll sit more and move less, which means they’ll cool down faster.

The mid layer acts like an insulation buffer. It sits between the base layer and your outer shell, trapping warmth while allowing excess heat and moisture to escape.

• Select fleece, synthetic insulated jackets or down-style jackets depending on how cold it is, how hard you’ll ski, and how much movement you expect.
• For high-intensity skiing you might choose a lighter mid layer so you don’t overheat; for cold, long days a heavier insulation works better.
• Make sure the mid layer allows full movement: your turns, pole plants and lift-rides require freedom of motion.
• You can easily remove or add this layer during the day as conditions change, this flexibility is what keeps you comfortable from first lift to last run.

Your outer layer is your shield. This is the ski jacket and ski pants (or bibs) that protect you from wind, snow, rain and the cold mountain air. It must be weather-proof, breathable and well-fitted.

• Look for waterproof membranes, taped seams, snow skirts (on jackets), boots-friendly cuffs and ventilation zips.
• A good outer layer allows moisture from inside (from your exertion) to escape so you don’t get damp and cold underneath.
• Fit matters: a too-tight shell restricts layers beneath; too loose and it will flap, let cold in and reduce effectiveness.
• For kids or mixed weather days, you might use a slightly lighter shell since their movement is less constant and layering underneath might do most of the work.