Ski Equipment Checklist

Skiing is a sport where equipment and clothing can make the difference between an enjoyable day on the mountain or a miserable one. Having the right stuff with you when you get to the top of the hill isn't a matter of buying the most expensive equipment. All you need is functionality for your skill level and the foresight to be prepared for anything you might encounter.

  1. Skis, Boots, Poles

    • Skis, boots and poles are the obvious big three necessities. For recreational skiers, mid-range equipment can provide good value. Spending a small fortune may only be a smart investment if you ski very frequently and will get use out of the equipment for many years. You can even rent equipment at the resort or a local ski shop if you don’t want to buy. The most important thing is choosing the right skis and boots for both your size and skill level. Trying out skis before a purchase will give you a feel for how the ski meshes with your ability and the type of terrain you most frequently ski on.

      Many shops offer technology that takes a picture of your feet and skiing stance so they can more accurately find the best boot for you. You can even invest in custom boot liners that are heat molded to the shape of your feet. This can make a big difference in both comfort and performance, because when your feet are comfortable, you have better control of your skis.

    Ski Jacket and Pants

    • Dressing in layers allows you to shed or add clothes as the day gets warmer or colder. This means investing in a good ski jacket that has a zip-out lining inside a waterproof shell. Other jacket details to look for: plenty of pockets, a detachable hood, zip-open arm pits for venting on warm days and a powder skirt to keep snow and wetness out of your pants on falls.

      With ski pants you can go baggy or form fitting, bib or suspenders; styles are endless. What matters most is that they are waterproof, and that you are comfortable in them and have good range of motion. A lot of pockets come in handy and zippers on the bottoms make getting the pants over your boots easy.

    Helmets, Hats and Neck Warmers

    • Skiing with a cold head or neck will make the rest of your body feel colder, so a fleece-lined hat or helmet and a neck warmer are essentials. Neck warmers go over the head around the neck like a looser turtleneck of sorts. They are safer than scarves because nothing dangles, eliminating the risk of getting caught on something.

      A helmet is also a wise choice for both children and adults. Skiing is a dangerous sport and injuries can happen to even the best athletes. After highly publicized fatal ski accidents claimed the lives of Sonny Bono and Natasha Richardson, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of adults opting for helmets. According to the National Ski Areas Association, "Helmet usage by skiers and boarders aged 18 to 24 is currently 32 percent, representing a 78 percent increase in usage for this age group since the 2002/03 season, when only 18 percent wore helmets."

    Gloves, Lip Balm and Pocket Tissues

    • Even on mild days, insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens are another necessity. Wind and cold can whip up in an instant, especially on chair lifts. Freezing temperatures, snow and cold metal can lead to frostbite on highly susceptible fingers and hands. Look for gloves with a lining that can trap air inside. Fleece is a common lining. The exterior material should be a waterproof, breathable and wind-resistant.

      Glove safety leashes let you adjust gloves on the lift without losing them. Tissues and lip balm stashed in pockets help battle the chapped lips and runny noses that go hand in hand with skiing.

    Long Underwear and Socks

    • On very cold days you will need a base layer under your ski pants and shirt. The best are thin, breathable and wick perspiration away from the skin. Polyester and spandex blends are commonly used, because they are soft, warm, stretchy and wick moisture. For natural fibers, fine-gauge Merino wool base layers are also comfortable and breathe well and have excellent thermal qualities. Among lighter base layers, silk is a popular natural-fiber option. Synthetic fibers may cause skin irritation, so natural may be the way to go.

      Ski socks need the same qualities as long underwear. You want warmth, comfort and dry feet. Merino wool or an acrylic-spandex blend provide all three. Everyday athletic socks won’t cut it. Some fancier options are also available. Compression ski socks made of lightweight spandex and nylon support your calf and ankle muscles and increase blood flow. Socks with cushioning may protect heels, shins and ankles from chaffing and aches caused by stiff boots.