Ski Clothes – Get Ready for the Snow
Ski clothes aren’t just about looking good on the mountain – they’re your first line of defense against the elements. Proper ski clothes keep you warm, dry and comfortable while helping you perform your best, no matter if the winds are freezing cold or if you're plowing through waist-deep powder snow. Discover ski clothes here!
Ski clothes need to have a sufficient level of insulation, waterproofness, and breathability while allowing freedom of movement. Therefore, choosing the right skiing clothes means considering what weather types you’ll be skiing in to make sure that you don’t get cold, soaked, or overheated.
Are you getting ski clothes for the family ski holiday? Or looking for technical ski wear to enhance your performances? We’ve got it all.
The balance between waterproofness and breathability is quite often reflected in the price point. As a recreational skier, you can find proper coverage in the mid-range of ski clothes, but if are skiing intensively for extended periods of time throughout the skiing season, you’ll probably need to invest in high-performance ski clothes.
Overview
Ski Jackets
When it comes to keeping warm and dry on the mountain, the right ski jacket is key. Whether you’re looking for ski jackets for women, children or men, you should make sure to get a proper level of insulation and protection against water and wind.
A snow jacket with a high waterproof rating (10,000 mm or above) and moisture-wicking lining will keep you comfortable in all conditions.
Look for additional features like:
- Adjustable hoods
- Zippered vents
- Pockets for ski passes or snacks (both inner & outer)
- Snow skirts
If you’re not sure how to choose a ski jacket, think about your typical skiing conditions: insulated jackets for cold weather or shell jackets for flexibility and customized layering.
Ski Pants & Snow Pants
Ski pants help keep you warm and dry, and your comfort level is highly dependent on them when you’re out on the slopes. Generally, the best ski pants are waterproof, windproof, and breathable – in other words, they need to protect you from wind and water, while allowing moisture to escape from the inside.
Choose ski pants based on your activity, the weather, and your comfort preferences. Shell pants work if you’re not prone to getting cold, but for periods of inactivity, like on ski lifts, insulated pants are essential to stay warm and enjoy your day.
Look for additional features like:
- Adjustable waistbands
- Reinforced cuffs
- Inner snow gaiters
- Clip-compatibility with same-brand jacket
- Pockets
For cross-country skiing, consider your focus. Performance-oriented skiers benefit from thin, lightweight, and breathable pants that maximize mobility. Nature enthusiasts are more prone to stop for a while and enjoy the view and a cup of joe; they should opt for insulated, waterproof and breathable ski pants.
Thermal Underwear – Underwear for Skiing
Thermal underwear is the secret to staying warm on the slopes. Simply put, once you’ve tried them, you wont ever want to ski without them. Complete base layer setc or long johns for the legs, these snug pieces are the first step to a cozy ski outfit.
Why is thermal underwear such a game changer for skiing? Thermal underwear helps keep you warm by trapping the heat close to your body while wicking away sweat to keep you dry.
On the coldest days, go for the warmest options like merino wool or high-quality synthetic blends. These materials lock in warmth without making you feel bulky. A reliable base layer is your best friend for staying comfortable and enjoying your time on the mountain, no matter the weather.
Ski Gloves
The best ski gloves keep your hands toasty and functional throughout the day. A proper pair of ski gloves should be waterproof, insulated, and durable, and perhaps they should include features like touchscreen compatibility or wrist leashes for convenience. For extremely cold conditions, consider heated gloves or mittens with built-in battery packs. While many winter gloves offer adequate warmth, specialized ski gloves are designed to handle the unique demands of skiing, such as gripping poles and withstanding snow exposure. Look for gloves with reinforced palms and adjustable cuffs for a secure and comfortable fit.
Consider whether finger gloves, lobster gloves or mittens are more appropriate for you. In short, finger gloves allow maximum dexterity, while mittens are warmer than finger gloves. Lobster gloves, also known as 3-finger gloves, are the compromise between the two.
Wondering whether to go for mittens or gloves? Check out the chart below:
Aspect | 5-finger gloves | 3-finger gloves | Mittens |
Dexterity | More | Medium | Less |
Warmth | Less | Medium | More |
Once you’ve decided whether to opt for mittens, 5 finger gloves, or 3-finger gloves, you also need to consider what materials you prefer. You’ll find leather ski gloves or technical performance ski gloves as well as more or less insulated ski gloves in our vast assortment:
Ski Socks
Ski socks are a critical choise. Your feet are your foundation on the slopes, and if they get cold, it’s only a matter of time before you’ll be thinking about things unrelated to skiing. Wondering what socks to wear when skiing? Get thermal socks that are designed specifically for skiing. They have comfortable cushioning in the areas most susceptible to blisters. The best ski socks are made of moisture-wiking materials like merino wool to keep your feet dry and warm. For additonal comfort on the coldest days, try heated ski socks with adjustable temperature settings. We recommend that you avoid cotton socks, which retain moisture and can lead to cold, damp feet.
Ski Masks, Ski Balaclavas & Ski Hats
The best ski mask will protect your face against the biting cold, and they can have a huge impact on your experience on the slopes. A ski mask or a ski balaclava provides full-face coverage, shielding you from frostbite in extreme conditions. For those looking for the best balaclava for skiing, prioritize breathable materials and snug fits that work well under helmets and goggles. A ski neck gaiter is another versatile option, offering adjustable coverage for your neck and lower face. Complete your outfit with a warm, moisture-wicking ski hat to keep your head and ears insulated.
Ski Mid Layers - What to Wear Under Ski Clothes?
Proper mid layers retain warmth while allowing flexibility and breathability, making them an important element in ski clothing. You’ve probably asked yourself this question: what to wear underneath a ski jacket or under snow pants? While it really is a matter of personal preference and needs, we have a few suggestions to inspire your choise.
Fleece jackets, down sweaters, or synthetic insulated layers are excellent options for keeping warm without overheating. The best midlayer for skiing depends on your activity level: lightweight fleece for high-output days or heavier insulation for frigid weather.