Ski & Snowboard Clothing

For skiing and snowboarding, the proper equipment can mean greater safety and higher levels of enjoyment. Less time spent being cold means more time having fun on the slopes. Preference of size and fit may vary among age groups and skiing or snowboarding styles, but the general pieces of clothing worn do not. Some of the key articles of clothing are undergarments, snow pants, jackets, gloves, headwear and goggles.

  1. Undergarments

    • An undergarment does not mean underwear. One of the best ways to stay warm on the mountain is to wear layers, with the base layers being undergarments. Thick socks that wick moisture should be worn on the feet. The first layer, a skin-tight layer, should be composed of wicking materials. This will pull the sweat away from your body, keeping you dry and warm. The next layer should be an insulating layer. An excellent example of an insulating layer is fleece or wool; wool is especially advantageous because it too will aid in wicking moisture from your body.

    Snow Pants

    • There are a couple styles when it comes to snow pants. The most popular is the relaxed fit snow pant that fits loosely around the legs. These are often seen being worn by skiers. This type of pant can be held up by either a waistband or suspenders. The next type of bottom is a tight fitting pant that reduces air resistance and drag. These highly insulating pants can be compared to a wetsuit. They are worn by ski and snowboard racers along with a similar top. The last pant common to skiers and snowboarders is the baggy snow pant. Baggy snow pants are embraced by many who ride terrain parks and need greater freedom of motion. Having the extra range of motion allows the body to twist and contort when doing tricks.

    Jackets

    • Jackets are probably the most essential piece of clothing for a skier or snowboarder. Similar to snow pants, jackets in many styles are worn. Many skiers wear a relaxed fit jacket with insulation to keep their torso warm. Riders who frequent the terrain park will require something loose fitting for a top as well. Regardless of the top worn, most people prefer a top with a built in skirt. The skirt is attached to the jacket and has an elastic band that goes around the waist. This creates a waterproof barrier to keep snow from coming up into the jacket or going down the snow pants.

    Gloves

    • Gloves or mittens are essential to keep hands warm. Gloves come in either a one-piece, insulated form or in a two-piece form. The two-piece version consists of a bottom layer made of insulating material and an outer layer made of tough, waterproof material. Being able to remove the outer layer can give the user greater mobility if he needs to use a tool to adjust bindings or boot tightness.

    Headwear

    • Hats and helmets are used to keep the head warm. Helmets are often worn by terrain park riders, competitive racers and beginners who are at a higher risk of falling. Hats are the other common type of head wear. Hats are usually made of a highly insulating material, and on snowy or wet days it can be helpful to wear a water resistant hat. This prevents the material from losing effectiveness when it gets wet.