How to Dress for Cross Country Skiing

Dress for a Day of Cross Country Skiing

• 1

  Layer up. As with downhill skiing or any winter outdoor activity, the key to staying comfortable and warm is by dressing in layers. You will need to have an inner, middle and outer layer of clothing at minimum.

• 2

  Start by putting on your inner layer of thermal underwear and undershirt. Try to choose a fiber blend for your "long johns" that will wick away the sweat from your body as you ski.

• 3

  Suit up with your thermal middle layer. Pick out a warm fleece pull-over that features a zip-up cowl neck. This layer may also serve as your outer layer if you are cross country skiing on a particularly warm winter day.

• 4

  Pick a pair of ski pants that are both water- and wind-resistant. These come in a variety of styles, including some with suspenders to help keep pants from slipping down as you ski along the snow.

• 5

  Look for the same qualities in your jacket. It should be lighter than a downhill skiing jacket, but it still needs to protect you from cold wind and wet snow.

• 6

  Dress in warm and comfortable socks. Just as with your inner layer, you should select a pair that will wick away moisture as you exert yourself.

• 7

  Keep the warmth from escaping the top of your head by putting on a knit, insulated cap. Beginner cross country skiers may also want to wear a helmet for safety's sake.

• 8

  Find gloves that will keep your hands warm while still allowing you to handle your poles with ease.

• 9

  Dress for the sun by putting on a pair of sunglasses or goggles. Remember that even in the winter months, the sun (and especially its reflection off the snow) can cause damage to your eyes and skin. Look for a pair of glasses with at least 95 percent protection against both UVA and UVB rays.