How to Dress for Skiing

Ski clothing not only looks great, it'll keep you warm and dry. Here's what to wear to keep that mountain chill at bay on the slopes.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Headbands
• Mittens
• Ski Hats
• Ski Socks
• Sunglasses
• Men's Ski Gloves
• Ski Goggles
• Women's Ski Gloves
• Women's Ski Jackets

1. Determine the climate. Breathability is important if you ski where it's warm and dry, insulation is necessary where it's cold, and water-repellence is crucial where it's wet.
2. Choose underlayers in polypropylene and fleece, or alternatively, wool and silk. These materials absorb little water, dry quickly and keep you warm. Avoid cottons, which dry slowly and become cold and heavy when wet.
3. Buy waterproof pants that will fit over ski boots, are not too long and allow you to bend easily at the hips and knees.
4. Choose thick socks with a stretchable fiber; they won't lump and cause blisters.
5. Buy waterproof gloves or mittens if your hands chill easily.
6. Buy a windproof, waterproof jacket with a removable lining that can accommodate thick layers for cold days.
7. Cover your ears with a hat or headband.
8. Choose sunglasses or goggles that offer 100-percent protection against UV rays and are large enough to shield your eyes from wind, blowing snow and wind chill.

Tips & Warnings

• Tight-fitting storm cuffs, drawstring waists and a high neck are good features, as are pockets where you want them.
• Gloves should not cut off the circulation from your fingers, but should be tight enough that you can comfortably grasp your poles.