Proper Layering With Ski Attire

Dressing appropriately for skiing means wearing multiple layers of clothing that dry quickly and can be easily put on and taken off, depending on the weather on and off the slopes. Wearing layers helps keep you warmer because of the air trapped between layers. Your layers need to be light, comfortable and made out of quality fabrics. Skiing can be a difficult sport to master; your clothing should help you be as efficient and comfortable as possible.

  1. Wearing Layers

    • Your layers should fit close to your body, but not be too tight, because you want to have a full range of motion while you are skiing. Do not wear layers that make you feel uncomfortable because they are too loose or too tight. You should have replacement layers packed and ready to go, aside from your outer layer, in case your clothing items get soaked from snow or sweat. Add layers as you get cold and remove layers as you get hot.

    Underwear

    • The layer closest to your skin is sometimes also known as the underwear or wicking layer. This is because this layer helps to wick moisture away from your body. This keeps you dry and will hopefully improve your comfort level while you are skiing. Long underwear is the best choice for this layer, but you might want to consider synthetic fibers or silk instead of cotton, as cotton absorbs moisture and can make you feel cold.

    Middle Layer

    • The middle layer helps to insulate you from the cold weather by keeping your body heat close to your body, and the cold outside where it belongs. A combination of a vest along with a sweat shirt, light jacket, sweater or pullover top works well for your upper body. You will also want to wear a pair of close-fitting pants over your long underwear as the middle layer on your lower body. Again, choose items made from wool or synthetic fibers such as polyester, thermax, polar-tech, capilene, fleece or poly-pro.

    Outer Layer

    • The outer layer will consist of a jacket or coat, as well as waterproof pants. A waterproof outer layer will help you dry and warm when you fall in the snow, which is common for beginners, and even advanced skiers fall down every once in a while. Wool is another option for a coat, but make sure that it is not so bulky that it inhibits your movements. You will probably not need this outer layer on days that are considered warm, but you will be happy that you brought them on cold or windy days.

    Other Items

    • Wear a thin pair of silk or polyester socks with a pair of heavier wool socks over them. This will be followed by your ski boots. You can also layer a pair of thin wool gloves underneath a pair of thicker wool mittens, if needed. A headband can be layered underneath a fleece hat or a balaclava to protect your ears. You can wear a visor or goggles over this to protect your eyes.