Dressing for Success on the Slopes

​Skiing requires a very large wardrobe with many parts if you want to insure that you will be warm out there on the slopes! 

Below I have listed, along with a short description or some tips, each category or "layer" of clothing and accessories you will want while skiing or snowboarding!

Base Layer:
Other wise known as long johns or long underwear. In my opinion, a good base layer, good gloves, good socks and a warm head are the keys to success. As far as base layers go, there are a few ways to go. The absolute best, but most expensive, is Merino Wool material. Smart wool makes a base layer made of this for $100 a piece for top and bottom, so that is out of most people's price range, including mine. The other type is synthetic. I just bought a pair of Patagonia Mid-weight Capilene Long underwear, and I loved them.  Again, put a name brand on it, and it is expensive. For just a few days of skiing, unless you borrow something like this or get it heavily discounted, it might not be worth it to you for the price. Regardless of what you get, I would go with a mid-weight. Not lightweight or thermal. 

Gloves:
A good pair of gloves is crucial. That was actually my family's first Colorado purchase because we froze when we came here to house hunt. If your hands get cold easily, I would go with mittens. I have a pair of Swany mittens, and so does my husband. There are many mittens out there that have a zipper where you can put a hand warmer or get your fingers out (while still in a liner) if you need them. Regardless of what you get, a good pair of ski gloves or mittens will make for a more enjoyable experience.

Socks:
The days of thick wool socks and liners are over. Get yourself a good pair of ski socks. Again, Smartwool makes a good pair of Merino wool socks that are thin, warm and comfortable. I would certainly spend up for socks because cold feet make for a miserable day!

Hat/Helmet:
Most everyone wears a helmet on the slopes these days. My husband actually broke his eye socket when he was in college and is fairly certain he had a concussion after a collision with another skier. He wishes he was wearing a helmet that day. You will for sure be able to rent one from wherever you rent skis. Some of the helmets are warm, but I would still recommend having a warm beanie to wear under your helmet or to have on while walking around. 

Jacket/Pants:
If you've set yourself up for success with the above categories, you will likely be warm. You can layer in another shirt or fleece if you want depending on how cold it is. Layers are key as well as staying dry (so no scotch guarding jeans as my husband did in the '90's!). The key to the outer layers is that they are water resistant. Any kind of Gortex material is good. If the pants/Bib/Jacket are made for skiing, they will be water resistant. I would steer away from just trying to make something you already have work if it isn't waterproof. Cold and wet is not a good combination. Also, jackets with a hood can be nice if it is really cold and snowing.

Goggles/Glasses:
Ski goggles are nice, but sunglasses also will work if you don't have or can't get a hold of goggles. Either way, some eye protection that is tinted is a requirement, the snow is way too bright. 

Neck Gaiter:
We learned the hard way this weekend that the wind will chill you to the bone even on a 35 degree day. A neck gaiter that you can pull up over your neck and mouth are also part of my must have list now. 
 
I realize this is a long list of items to acquire, but honestly they are necessary. You don't have to break the bank though, so get creative in your acquisition process. You will be glad you spent a little extra time and money to have all of these items!

If you are looking for the perfect ski vacation getaway look no further! The Whitney World Travel team is ready to help you maximize your vacation dollars and time. Contact us today for more information.

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About the Author:

Morgan Scully, Travel Advisor
Morgan is passionate about all things Disney. From an early age she loved taking in the magic of Disney World, but its when she became a mom and she saw life through her daughter's eyes that she truly understood how amazing a Disney vacation can be for a family. Morgan is well versed in all things Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line. She also serves as Whitney World Travel's Military Vacation Specialist-- helping the brave men and women who serve our country and their families get the most out of their vacations. Morgan is a graduate of Texas A&M University.