How to Dress for Skiing
How to dress for skiing has got to be my favorite subject on the planet. I know it is odd to say but I LOVE to ski and I have spent a lifetime solving the puzzle of how to pick ski clothing to stay warm in cold weather or even cooler on warmer days, have confidence in my choices, stay comfortable, and have an amazing time.
If you are reading this you are either just starting on the slopes and need ski tips for beginners or you need a refresher, wear skiing, a ski outfit not only tells the story of the skier inside, but if you are truly interested in enjoying the slopes snow or shine, what I wear skiing is as important as the skis and ski boots.
How to dress for skiing can also assist in with how to pack for a ski trip as well.
How to Dress for Skiing and Fall in Love
Maybe you live in a ski town or maybe you are planning a ski trip, the goal is to stay warm in all weather conditions, and planning insulating layers is the key to success on the groomers and in the powder.
Not only do I focus on a layering system, but I also focus on keeping my head warm and my heart warm. There is a little more to it but my beginning foundation is head and heart, it leads to warmer feet, hands, and tush.
If you are warm and comfortable on the mountain it has been proven that you ski better(by me) so let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and get you ready for an epic day on the snow.
Layering for Optimal Comfort
My Layering system of ski clothing looks like this:
Head and Neck
Beanie
Helmet
Neck Gaiter
Goggles
Upper Body
Base Layer
Mid Layer
Outer Layer
Ski Gloves and Hot Pockets
Legs
Long Underwear
Ski Socks
Ski Pants
Ski Boots
Before/After Ski Boots
Ski Bag Includes
Sun Glasses
Sun Screen
After Ski Jacket
Extra Mid Layer
Baseball Hat
Knit Cap
Knit Mittens
Extra Hair Bands
Do You Run Cold or Hot?
Deciding on ski gear depends on whether you run hot or cold. Choosing a layering system from long underwear to a ski jacket is dictated if you sweat on a 10 degree day or head for the lodge fireplace in between each run to stay warm. All layers come in different weights and it is important to know how to stay warm skiing.
Choosing the Right Base Layer
The base layer, long underwear, it doesn’t matter what you call it; this is the layer that touches your skin and can keep you warm or cool if you sweat. There are many fabrics, such as merino wool, thermal underwear, moisture wicking, and polyester, the options are endless.
The base layer should be tight but not restrictive, there are two options for tops, crew neck or mock neck. I like crew neck better as I use the insulated mid layer zipped up as my neck protection.
If you perspire easily, moisture wicking is the way to go, if you are cold all the time, merino wool is your best choice. My last suggestion is there are many companies that manufacture base layers that look great if you decide to remove your ski clothing at the end of the day, it looks like a great set of leggings.
Last Note: I firmly believe that my base layers do not belong in my ski boots, only my ski socks belong in my ski boots. I wear base layers that I can wear as leggings after a good ski day, I fold them to above the boot line. Mid calf base layers are also available.
Insulating Mid Layer
The insulating mid layer is the cozy layer. It’s the center of the ski sandwich and is the temperature control. They can be a fleece jacket, a quarter zip, or a vest. I have two, I have a light puffy vest and a quarter zip fine fleece and on very cold days I wear them at the same time for four layers. I carry them in my ski bag together at all times just in case.
Lastly, both are soft and are the best part of what I wear skiing, the insulating layers keeps our hearts warm.
Protective Outer Layer
The ski jacket and the ski pants are the protective outer layer. Besides the below options, you will need to decide if your ski jacket is hooded or not? Do you need vents in your jacket or ski pants? My ski jacket has hand stirrups so my sleeves don’t slide and my ski pants have velcro adjustments for the different sizes I am over the age of 50.
Shell Jacket and Non Insulated Pants
We need to be protected from the elements of a beautiful spring skiing day. A shell jacket and pants are the perfect fit for a perfect day. Be sure it is water proof in case there is an unexpected spring dusting.
Insulated Jacket and Ski Pants
For the cold weather, an insulated jacket and pants are a must. My insulated jacket is wind proof, water proof, even the zipper is water proof and keeps me warm during the morning chill and way too slow chair lifts.
Essential Accessories for Skiing
Let’s start from the bottom this time:
Ski Socks
Hot Pockets
Ski Gloves
Neck Gaiter or Neck Warmer
Beanie
Ski Helmet
Ski Goggles
Footwear for Skiing
Obviously, we need ski boots to ski but unless you can walk to the bottom of the hill in your ski boots, you can’t drive your car in them so it’s important to have extra shoes handy.
Before and After Ski Boots
What ever you decide to wear when you aren’t skiing, make sure they are comfortable, are easy to put on if you are using your car to get ready and for goodness sakes, make sure they don’t slip and slide on the ice and snow.
Ski Boots
There is a more extensive conversation at Best Women’s Ski Boots but rest assured the most important part about getting dressed for skiing is the perfect pair of ski boots. Everyone has different needs but the day is not a good ski day if we are always thinking about a pain in our feet.
Additional Gear
Besides a dependable ski bag, additional gear in your bag should include sunglasses, lip balm, and sunscreen.
Conclusion
There is so much to consider especially if you haven’t been in ski shops before. From ski jackets to ski socks, each pick is a part of your own personal “ski formula.” When picking and purchasing the pieces of your layering system, be sure to consider weight, fabric, functionality and design. There is no reason to rush except that it’s going to snow any day now. Happy skiing!
FAQ
What do You Wear When You Aren’t Skiing?
The rules are the same when you aren’t skiing, layering. It is important to be warm outside and cooler on the inside. A layering system is best on and off the hill.
Do I Really Need a Ski Jacket?
I think a ski jacket is important at all times, as the weather changes, adjust your layers and if possible have two jackets on hand, an insulated one and a shell for warm weather. If you have a budget for one outer layer, be sure your ski gear has zippered vents.
Can I Wear Leggings Skiing?
Athletic leggings can be worn skiing but the breathable fabrics of a base layer is a better way to go.
