My first snow skiing experience was in Breckenridge, Colorado. We spent a week there, skiing on 5 of those days. I lived in Florida at the time, and had no idea what I really needed for a trip to the mountains in winter. Consequently, I brought along 2 full sized suitcases and a carry-on full of clothes. Somehow, I got the idea that I needed a different ski outfit for every day and weather condition. Not only that, but I brought along a ton of clothes just for going out to dinner and walking around town. Well, I learned my lesson after that trip and never packed that much stuff again!
If you have read some of our other posts, you may know that in recent years we prefer to use carry-on bags only – if at all possible. But I have to say, for ski trips, I always have to check a bag. Even though I take a lot less than I did on that first trip, I just cannot fit all those bulky winter clothes into one carry-on bag.
If you have skied a lot, or even if you live in a colder climate, you probably already have a good idea of what works for you in terms of winter outdoor clothing and accessories. So, this post is really intended to help those folks who are new to skiing, winter sports and cold climates.
Dressing for Snow Skiing and Other Winter Sports
While the intent of this post is mainly to help narrow down what you really need for downhill skiing, most of these clothing recommendations will work well for other outdoor winter sports such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and even snowmobiling or dog sledding. The key to staying comfortable is to dress in layers, so that you can add or remove them depending on your activity level and the weather.
When it comes to outdoor clothing, there are so many great options available that I hesitate to even make any specific recommendations. However, below is a general list of the items that I feel are must-haves to keep you warm and comfortable on the slopes. I am also providing a link to some products just as examples, so that you can get a better understanding of the types of clothing and accessories that you will need.
• Base Layer – A base layer is an insulating layer of clothing that is in direct contact with your skin. It is intended to retain your body heat, while allowing perspiration to be wicked away from your skin. Some folks refer to base layers as long johns or long underwear. Whatever you call it, you must start with a good base layer that is made from wool, silk or a synthetic material. Personally, I prefer synthetic material for a base layer because it is never scratchy and dries quickly after washing. Truthfully though, I have used base layers made from cotton, and although I survived, I was definitely colder because cotton is just not as effective at wicking moisture away from your skin.
• Ski Socks – Just like the base layer, the socks you wear should be designed for downhill skiing and should be made from wool or synthetics. Cotton socks are really not a good choice for winter outdoor activities. It’s sometimes tough to keep your feet warm with the best of socks, but cotton socks retain moisture and are a sure way to have ‘frozen’ toes, especially when you are riding up the ski lift.
• Shirt – I always wear another thin, long sleeve technical shirt over my base layer. Again, you should try to avoid cotton materials. I recommend a turtleneck or crew neck shirt made of synthetic material.
• Mid-layer – I tend to get cold easily, so unless it is going to be a very warm day (sunny and over 32 degrees), I like to throw on a fleece vest or even a quarter-zip for some extra warmth. I typically choose a fairly thin one, so that all the layers do not become too bulky and can be removed and stuffed in a pocket if it does get too warm.
• Ski Pants – Have you ever seen anyone ski in jeans? Yep, it happens, but it’s a really bad decision. Everyone falls now and then when skiing, and if you are a beginner you are likely to be spending your fair share of time in the snow. Your clothing needs to be warm and waterproof, and jeans are neither! Some skiers like to wear bibs for the extra warmth and padding they provide. However, I prefer regular ski pants like these. I find them a whole lot easier to deal with on bathroom breaks!
• Ski Jacket – There are so many choices for ski jackets, it’s hard to pick one as an example. You might want to select a 3-in-1 jacket in order to have some flexibility in the layers you wear. I recommend getting a jacket that is hip-length and/or has a snow skirt to keep snow out if you take a tumble. I also like to choose a jacket in a more neutral color so that I can wear it as an après-ski jacket as well.
• Ski Gloves – You will need a good pair of either gloves or mittens designed for skiing in order to keep your fingers warm. Gloves offer the most dexterity and that is the option I prefer. However, mittens will keep your finger warmer and it is definitely easier to insert hand-warmers inside of mittens. If you do choose gloves, I recommend choosing touchscreen gloves so that you will be able to easily use your phone without having to remove your gloves.
I also recommend having a second pair of either ski gloves or mittens. You may find that your hands perspire quite a bit and your gloves may not be dry by the time you need them again. In addition, it’s easy to lose a glove, so having an extra pair available is always a good idea.
If your fingers tend to get really cold, add a pair of glove liners that will add some extra warmth and also aid in wicking away moisture.
• Goggles – I see a lot of folks who prefer to wear sunglasses while skiing, but I cannot recommend that option. My eyes tend to water a lot and I need to keep the wind out of my eyes. I find that sunglasses are just not able to do that sufficiently for me. I also prefer goggles because they cover more of the face – providing additional protection from the sun. Keep in mind though, even if you are not using them for skiing, you still need to bring along some good sunglasses on your trip. The sun is intense at high elevation, and you will need to protect your eyes from all the glare when you are not skiing.
• Neck Warmer/Gaiter – I cannot recommend this little item highly enough. Slip on one of these and you can use it to keep your neck warm, or even pull it up over your nose if it gets super cold.
• Hats and Helmets – When skiing, I absolutely recommend that you wear a helmet. For me it’s non-negotiable. Not only will a helmet help to protect you from a serious injury, but it will keep your head way warmer and dryer than a hat or hood. If you are renting your ski equipment, then you can rent your helmet at the same time. That said, you still need some sort of a snow hat for your trip, because you will be doing more than skiing. I like to wear these earmuffs along with a knitted hat for extra warmth.
• Wristies – This is a product that most folks would not consider a must-have. But I cannot stand to have my wrists exposed when it’s cold. So, if you do not have a jacket with thumb-holes and/or ski gloves with a long cuff, consider getting a pair of Wristies to keep your wrists warm and comfortable.
• Sunscreen and Lip Balm – In addition to clothing, please remember to bring along plenty of sunscreen and several lip balms. Carry them with you and use them liberally. Because of the intense sun and cold temperatures, it is easy to get a severe sunburn on the exposed parts of your face and not even realize it.
TIP: As a beginning skier, you do not have to spend a ton of money purchasing the latest and greatest ski clothes, gloves, or goggles. I recommend trying to snag the previous year’s models of a moderately priced line of clothing/accessories. That way you will get decent products while not breaking the bank.
Dressing for Après-Ski
After a long day on the slopes, everyone looks forward to après-ski activities. This usually means relaxing with an adult beverage, socializing with your fellow skiers and listening to some music. There is usually no shortage of places to do this at the base of the ski hill and some folks pop off their skis and head to those establishments post-haste! Personally, I prefer a shower and a change of clothes before I begin the festivities. But what to wear?
One of the greatest things about skiing is how easy it is to dress for any after ski activities. It is so simple for anyone. All you need to do is put on a pair of jeans, a nice, warm sweater, ski socks and your snow boots. Next, throw on your ski jacket, a pair of gloves, your hat (and a scarf if you like) and that’s it. You are ready for a night on the town. Trust me, this formula works whether you are going to a sports bar or the nicest restaurant in town.
And now a word about snow boots or après-ski boots. You really need to wear boots that are intended for use in snow, ice, slush, side walk salt and all the nastiness that comes along with winter conditions. That snow looks beautiful on the slopes, but in town it can be a dirty mess. That means that you should leave your lovely, leather fashion boots at home and opt for a cute pair of the right kind of boots that are meant for snow. Here is an article that gives a lot of good examples.
TIP: Typically, we use some sort of a suitcase and packing cubes for our trips. However, we have found that rolling duffel bags are perfect for packing bulky winter clothes. There is no need to worry about wrinkling and you can stuff all the small stuff into the corners for efficient packing.
Consolidated Packing List
Here is my recommended packing list for a 5 to 6-day ski trip. You will need to do a little laundry along the way though.
For Outdoor Activities:
• Base Layers – 2 to 3 sets
• Ski Socks – 3 to 4 pair
• Technical Shirts – 3
• Mid Layer Vest or Pullover – 2
• Ski Pants -1
• Ski Jacket – 1
• Ski Gloves/Mittens – 2 pair
• Neck Warmers – 3
• Goggles – 1
• Sun Glasses – 1
• Snow Hat – 1 to 2
• Sunscreen
• Lip Balm
• Glove Liners – 1 to 2 pair (optional)
• Earmuffs – 1 pair (optional)
• Wristies – 1 pair (optional)
For Après-Ski:
• Jeans – 1 to 2 pair
• Dressy Sweaters – 3 to 4
• Snow Boots – 1 pair
For Lounging:
• Pajamas or other Lounge-wear – 2 sets
• Cozy Socks – 3 to 4 pair
• Cozy sweater – 1
• Bathing Suit – 1 (optional – many resorts have great pools and hot tubs)
TIP: If you are flying to your destination, you will probably be checking luggage. We suggest that you include everything you need for one day of skiing in your carry-on bag, and also carry your ski jacket on the plane. That way if your luggage gets delayed, you will have all the gear you need and won’t have to miss a day of skiing.
Well, that’s it. Other than some toiletries and undergarments, this list is pretty much what I take on any ski trip. Everyone is different though and you may decide that you need more stuff – or less! And you know what – that is just fine. Do what works and makes your trip enjoyable for you!
For information on Skiing in Colorado, take a look at our blog. We review four top ski resorts in Colorado.
Happy Trails!
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