Well-prepared skiers stay comfortable in winter conditions
Skiing is a heavily gear-dependent sport. Not only do you need skis, boots and bindings that fit you perfectly, you also need a plethora of outerwear to keep you warm on cold winter days. With all the options in ski clothes, it's understandable if you're confused about where to start. Fortunately, you can simplify the process by starting at your feet and working up to your head and by focusing on dressing in layers. When you know what clothes you need for your next ski adventure, you'll stay warm, dry and comfortable on the hill.
Socks
You lose most of your body heat through the extremities--that's why the importance of a high-quality sock can't be overstated. Natural wool and polyester will keep your feet warmer and drier than cotton, which absorbs and holds on to moisture. Sock thickness doesn't automatically translate into more warmth--look for the thinnest sock possible that keeps your feet warm so you'll be able to move your toes.
Lower Body
You need waterproof pants that are also "breathable," which means they allow moisture to evaporate quickly. When you're skiing on a warm day, breathable clothing can mean the difference between a great experience and misery. Ski pants are rated on a breathability scale--for wet and warm days, ski pants rated at 15,000mm or above are optimal. Look for pants made with Gore-Tex: This synthetic material is breathable and waterproof. If your pants are waterproof and breathable but not warm, buy long underwear to be your base clothing layer. Again, avoid cotton. Look for materials that allow perspiration to evaporate while also providing warmth. Buy a heavier pair for really cold days and a lighter pair for when the temperature rises.
Upper Body
Make sure you have a warm base layer made of synthetic material and an outer shell that is waterproof. It's easier to outfit the upper body because you can add and remove clothing layers as necessary. You might start with a long-sleeve base layer (which can be part of a set of long underwear), a thick fleece pullover and a waterproof ski jacket for cold days, and a short-sleeve base layer, light fleece pullover and waterproof shell for warmer days. If you like clothing that serves double duty, buy a ski jacket with a removable liner or shell.
Gloves
Don't make the mistake of buying cheap gloves for skiing. Ski gloves can wear quickly because they come into constant contact with your poles. It's better to buy one expensive high-quality pair that lasts than several cheap pairs that fall apart during the season. Look for gloves that are reinforced in contact areas such as the palms and thumbs. If you have problems with cold hands, consider gloves that incorporate removable mitten covers. Avoid cotton--look for breathable, waterproof insulated material.
Hat
You need a hat to keep your head warm. Better yet, buy several for different weather conditions. A thick wool hat with flaps to cover your ears will be a blessing on nippy, windy days, whereas a thin polyester beanie can be perfect on sunny spring days.
Tags: base layer, your feet, breathable waterproof, cold days, fleece pullover, fleece pullover waterproof