From tackling the slopes with finesse to staying cozy in unpredictable mountain weather, your choice of clothing plays a pivotal role in defining your skiing experience. And for first-time skiers or snowboarders, we’re here to help you navigate the intersection of fashion, functionality, and safety to ensure you’re not only turning heads on the mountain but also being well-prepared for whatever the snowy terrain throws your way. We’ll explore the ins and outs of what to wear skiing, covering everything from base layers to outerwear and accessories. Get ready to hit the slopes in style!
What to Wear Skiing and Snowboarding
Base Layers: The Foundation of Warmth
The key to staying warm on the slopes all starts with your first layer of clothing. So when you’re shopping for what to wear skiing, this is a great place to begin. Base layers play a vital role by wicking sweat away from the skin and keeping you dry, providing thermal insulation, regulating body temperature, and so much more.
Merino wool and synthetic fabrics are popular choices for base layers thanks to their insulating properties, breathability, and odor control. Here are some of our favorite options for base layers:
For men…
Smartwool Men’s Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew
- What We Like: Available in over a dozen colors, made with 100% Merino wool.
- Material: 100% Merino wool fabric
- Price: $115.00
- What We Like: Built for extreme cold weather, unique pattern traps heat without adding bulk, 4-way stretch material.
- Material: 81% polyester/19% elastarell
- Price: $100.00
For women…
Smartwool Women’s Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew
- What We Like: Available in over a dozen colors, made with 100% Merino wool.
- Material: 100% merino wool fabric
- Price: $115.00
- What We Like: Built for extreme cold weather, unique pattern traps heat without adding bulk, 4-way stretch material.
- Material: 81% polyester/19% elastarell
- Price: $100.00
Insulating/Mid-layers Layers: Trapping Heat
Insulating layers, or mid-layers, such as fleece jackets or sweaters, provide even more necessary warmth by trapping and retaining body heat. But, it’s important to choose options that offer insulation without compromising breathability. Here are some of our favorite options for insulating layers:
For men…
Arc’teryx Atom Insulated Jacket
- What We Like: Wind and weather-resistant, stretch fleece side panels improve range of motion and ventilation.
- Material: Shell – Tyono 20-denier nylon; side panels – 94% polyester/6% elastane stretch fleece
- Price: $280.00
Patagonia Men’s R1® Air Full-Zip Hoody
- What We Like: Lightweight and quick-drying, chest pocket for convenient storage of smaller items.
- Material: 100% recycled polyester jacquard fleece
- Price: $179.00
For women…
The North Face Women’s Summit Series FUTUREFLEECE™ Full-Zip Hoodie
- What We Like: Slim fit, lightweight, attached hood, no shoulder seams to maintain comfort when wearing a pack.
- Material: 124 g/m² FUTUREFLEECE™—55% polyester, 45% recycled polyester
- Price: $170.00
Black Diamond First Light Hybrid Hoodie
- What We Like: Helmet-compatible hood, packable design that makes it easy to bring with you.
- Material: 20-denier nylon stretch ripstop/wool back double jersey (54% merino wool/46% nylon)
- Price: $275.00
Ski Socks: Toasty Toes
There’s arguably no worse feeling than numb toes. That’s why proper ski socks are essential for warmth and comfort on the slopes. We recommend opting for moisture-wicking, breathable socks with sufficient cushioning in key areas. And, make sure they are long enough to prevent chafing from the edges of your ski boots. Here are some of our favorite options for ski socks:
For men…
Smartwool Ski Zero Cushion OTC Sock
- What We Like: Extra stretch in the calf area, mesh sections enhance breathability.
- Material: 54% merino wool, 29% recycled nylon, 14% nylon, 3% elastane
- Price: $21.60
Darn Tough Westerner Over-the-Calf Lightweight Work Sock
- What We Like: Lifetime guarantee, made in the USA, reinforced footbed Achilles cushion.
- Material: 53% nylon, 42% merino wool, 5% lycra spandex
- Price: $25.00
For women…
Bombas Women’s Ski & Snowboard Starter Sock 3-Pack
- What We Like: Airflow venting, seamless toe, strategic zone cushioning.
- Material: 49% merino wool 30% polyester 17% nylon 4% elastane
- Price: $86.00
Burton Performance Midweight Sock
- What We Like: Rider-specific support and cushioning, quick-drying and odor-resistant properties.
- Material: 38% nylon, 30% acrylic, 30% merino wool, 2% elastane
- Price: $31.95
Ski Jacket: Protection Against the Elements
Your ski jacket should be both waterproof and breathable to protect against snow and moisture while allowing perspiration to escape. Look for features like adjustable hoods, ventilation zippers, and snow skirts for optimal comfort. Here are some of our favorite options for ski jackets:
For men…
Dope Snow Blizzard Snowboard Jacket
- What We Like: Underarm vents, convenient pocket for your lift pass and devices, no front zipper means it is completely waterproof.
- Material: Microfleece chin guard, recycled polyester
- Price: $189.00
- What We Like: Available in a variety of vibrant colorblock designs, waterproof fabric with a water-repellent finish, internal smartphone pocket.
- Material: Polyester and nylon
- Price: $239.95
For women…
- What We Like: Designed intentionally for women, ultra-waterproof and eco-friendly, helmet-friendly adjustable hood.
- Material: 100% recycled polyester
- Price: $375.00
- What We Like: Underarm vents, convenient pocket for your lift pass and devices, available in a rainbow of colors.
- Material: Microfleece chin guard, recycled polyester
- Price: $239.00
Ski Pants: Staying Dry and Flexible
Invest in ski pants with waterproof and breathable properties that will keep you dry and comfortable. Adjustable waistbands, reinforced cuffs, and ventilation zippers are additional features to consider. Here are some of our favorite options for ski pants:
For men…
Eddie Bauer Men’s Powder Search 2.0 Insulated Pants
- What We Like: Adjustable waist to accommodate mid layers, inner thigh vents to release heat.
- Material: 100% recycled polyester
- Price: $99.50
REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Bib Snow Pants
- What We Like: Adjustable elastic straps and belt loop, zip chest pocket and hand pockets, inner thigh vents, waterproof and windproof.
- Material: 70-denier nylon and recycled polyester
- Price: $199.00
For women…
Marmot Women’s GORE-TEX® Lightray Pants
- What We Like: Waterproof, breathable, lightweight insulation that may eliminate the need for a mid layer.
- Material: 100% recycled polyester
- Price: $325.00
The North Face Freedom Insulated Ski Pants
- What We Like: Available in several colors, durable and waterproof, waistband with belt loops and adjustable tabs, hand pockets and cargo pocket.
- Material: Recycled nylon, recycled polyester
- Price: $220.00
Gloves or Mittens: Warm Hands, Happy Skier
Ski gloves aren’t just accessories…they’re the unsung heroes in the battle against the cold. Keep your hands warm and nimble with insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens that will provide sufficient insulation for the conditions you’ll be facing. Here are some of our favorite options for ski gloves:
For men…
Marmot Men’s Ultimate Ski GORE-TEX® Glove
- What We Like: Waterproof, breathable, moisture-wicking properties, wool lining for added warmth, wrist strap and drawcord.
- Material: Leather and wool
- Price: $200.00
For women…
Women’s Burton GORE-TEX Gloves
- What We Like: Adjustable wrist cinch, ergonomic pre-curved fit, soft nose wipe on thumb, Screen Grab® tech to allow continued use of your phone.
- Material: DRYRIDE 2-layer shell fabric and microfiber
- Price: $84.95
Goggles: Protecting Your Eyes in Style
Got your sights set on some quality goggles? Smart move. Ski goggles are a must for protecting your eyes from wind, snow, and UV rays. We recommend looking for anti-fog coatings, UV protection, and interchangeable lenses for varying light conditions. Here are some of our favorite options for ski goggles:
Unisex…
Oakley Unisex Flight Deck XM Snow Goggles
- What We Like: Ideal for all snowsports, maximized field of vision, anti-fog coating, easy lens changing, seamless helmet compatibility.
- Price: $216.00
Columbia Whirlibird Ski Goggle
- What We Like: Wide peripheral view, anti-fog, microfleece lining for comfort on the mountain, water and dust repellent, 100% UV protection.
- Price: $56.25
Helmet: Safety First, Style Second
Strap on that helmet – it’s your ticket to slope safety. That’s why choosing a helmet is one of the most important aspects when you’re deciding what to wear skiing. You’ll need to find one that fits well, complies with safety standards, and has adjustable vents for temperature control. Here are some of our favorite options for ski helmets:
Unisex…
- What We Like: Integrated vents to prevent steam on goggles, lightweight, interior size-adjustment system.
- Price: $140.00
- What We Like: Lightweight and durable, 21 vents, removable ear pads, antimicrobial lining, energy absorbing impact protection.
- Price: $240.00
Neck Gaiter: Versatile Protection
Wrap up your winter look with a neck gaiter. A neck gaiter or buff is a versatile accessory that provides protection for your neck and face. Choose a breathable and moisture-wicking material for added comfort. Here are some of our favorite options for neck gaiters:
Unisex…
REI Co-op Polartec Wind Pro Fleece Neck Gaiter
- What We Like: Wind resistant, water repellent, breathable.
- Material: 100% recycled polyester
- Price: $17.89
Smartwool Thermal Merino Long Neck Gaiter
- What We Like: Naturl odor resistant, breathable, thermoregulation.
- Material: Merino wool
- Price: $35.00
Ski Boots: Comfort and Performance
Ski boots are the linchpin of every ride, serving as the critical nexus between skier and slope. Beyond mere accessories, these boots are paramount for precise control, comfort, and safety on the mountain. Their snug fit enables seamless power transmission, allowing skiers to navigate diverse terrains with confidence while minimizing fatigue. That’s why it’s important to find properly fitting ski boots. Here are some of our favorite options for ski boots:
For men…
Salomon S/Pro HV 120 Gw Ski Boots
- What We Like: Easy step-in, accommodates wider feet, greater walking comfort.
- Price: $449.96
Tecnica Mach1 MV 120 Ski Boots
- What We Like: A best-selling boot, comfortable, thermo-customization, anatomical shape that matches foot shape.
- Price: $699.95
For women…
Rossignol Alltrack 80 W Ski Boots
- What We Like: Heat moldable liner, easy to walk in, tulip-shaped rear accommodates women’s naturally shaped calf.
- Price: $259.97
Atomic Hawx Prime XTD 95 Tech Alpine Touring Boot
- What We Like: Anatomical liner is thermo-moldable, GripWalk soles make walking on icy areas easier, enhanced power transition and natural movement.
- Price: $249.98
Armed with this comprehensive guide on what to wear skiing, you’re ready to hit the slopes in style, comfort, and safety. Remember that investing in high-quality gear not only enhances your performance but also ensures a memorable and enjoyable skiing experience. So, pack your bags, gear up, strap on your skis, and embark on an epic alpine adventure with the confidence that you’re dressed for success on the snowy peaks.