What to wear on a ski trip
Dress in three layers: a merino or synthetic base, a fleece mid layer and a waterproof, windproof shell, plus warm socks, gloves and a helmet. For the evening, pack dry, warm clothes and boots with grip for icy streets.
Two outfits that work
Base layer, fleece, ski jacket and trousers
- merino base layer top
- fleece mid layer
- waterproof ski jacket
- waterproof ski trousers
- neck tube and wool hat
Three thin layers trap heat and let moisture out, and you can open or remove the fleece when a climb or a sunny slope warms you up.
Base layer, fleece, shell and trousers (men)
- merino base layer top
- fleece mid layer
- waterproof ski jacket
- waterproof ski trousers
- neck tube and wool hat
A simple dark shell hides the day’s wear, and zip vents under the arms let you cool off without taking your jacket off.
By weather
| Hot22° and up | Spring skiing can reach 10 to 15°: a thin base layer, an open shell, sunscreen, sunglasses and goggles. |
|---|---|
| Mild10° to 21° | Base layer, a light fleece and the shell, with gloves in the pocket. |
| ColdBelow 10° | Merino base, thick fleece or down mid layer, shell, neck tube, warm hat under the helmet and mittens instead of gloves. |
Do and don’t
- Wear a base layer that wicks sweat; avoid cotton
- Put on sunscreen and lip balm, because snow reflects UV
- Choose waterproof gloves or mittens and bring a spare pair
- Keep dry clothes and warm boots for après-ski
- Wear jeans or cotton leggings; they get wet and freeze
- Wear tight boots or two thick pairs of socks that cut circulation
- Ski without a helmet and goggles
- Carry valuables in outer pockets
Check the night before
- Check the forecast and the snow report for the day
- Pack goggles, helmet, gloves, spare socks and a neck tube
- Put sunscreen and lip balm in a jacket pocket
- Charge your phone; cold drains batteries, so keep it in an inner pocket
- Bring dry shoes and a change of clothes for the evening
Questions people ask
How many layers should I wear skiing?
Three: a base layer next to the skin, a fleece or light down mid layer, and a waterproof, windproof jacket. Adjust the middle layer to the temperature.
What should I wear under ski trousers?
Thermal or merino leggings. Avoid cotton, which stays wet and cold.
What do I wear for après-ski?
Dry, warm clothes: jeans or thick trousers, a jumper, a warm coat and boots with grip. Pack them so you can change right after skiing.
Do I need special socks for skiing?
Yes, one pair of thin, warm ski socks that reach the knee. Thick or two pairs can cut circulation and make your feet colder.
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