Getting ready for that first season skiing? You can’t wait to hear that squeeky snow under your feet and feel the wind on your face. On the other hand packing seems so overwhelming, doesn’t it? It’s been probably more than 8 months since you put all that ski gear away. Skis in the basement, goggles, helmets and other accessories in the top closet and who knows where those ski trousers and thermal underwear are!
Having spent most of my winter life on skis I have quite a few ski garments stacked in my closets! Everytime I have an upcoming ski trip however, I always pick the same clothes to wear. Some of which I have been wearing for over 15 years! It’ s either because they are very comfortable and warm or for sentimental reasons! So let’s get started!
First of all you have to consider where on earth you are travelling, what month it is and how many days you are going to ski. Since we’re just a few weeks till Christmas I will assume you’re going somewhere dreamy and classic like the Austrian or Süd Tiroler Alps. Humidity is not very high there but the days are quite short and the high peaks over the valleys make the sun disappear even sooner. Snow storms are very likely to happen, hence starting with a warm functional jacket is very important.
If you are a backcountry person you need to wear a shell jacket and more layers so that you don’t overheat during the ascend. If you are a groomer you need a warm jacket for that wind coming at you while carving down the slopes and while sitting on the chairlift. Same goes for your ski trousers, they need air vents if you are going uphill or some extra insulation if you are spending time seated on the chair lift.
Underneath you need some kind of midlayer, a light sweatshirt or fleece. It can either be loose and baggy or slim fit. If you are skiing for 4 consecutive days I would recommend taking at least 2 garments. My go to midlayer is a functional half zip shirt.
What goes on your bare skin is the most important piece of clothing to me. Seamless is definitely my way to go. Light and stretchy is more than enough to keep you warm and properly insulated throughout the skiing day. One shirt for every day of skiing is over the top so don’t forget to take a small travel detergent with you and do some laundry! If you have two sets of thermal underwear you will be just fine.
Last but not least are socks! Pick a pair that is specified for skiing, not very thick, high enough so that it goes all the way to your knee cap but not over it. A pair of Merino Wool blend is recommended for extra warmth and breathability. Never wear 2 pairs of socks! It will make your feet sweat and subsequently freeze and the friction between the two socks will make your foot less stable in the boot.
When it comes to accessories safety comes first, so always wear a helmet! Ski accidents happen all the time so keep your head protected. Helmets come with vents and light padding over the ears. However it is ok to wear a racing helmet as well which is more robust, without any vents and hard over the ears. Goggles are perfect for protecting your eyes from cold wind and harsh sunlight. There are various lense colours suitable for every light condition. Useful tip: Don’t wear yellow lenses for sunshine. You’ll go blind! A neckwarmer is also very useful and protects your neck from the wind or falling snow. It should not be used as a covid-19 mask however. Finally the gloves need to be either made of soft leather or synthetic padding to keep your fingers safe and warm.
Don’t forget your sunscreen! A 30 to 50 spf is definitely ok for skiing and be sure to reapply it during your midday break.
A packing list for 4 days of skiing is provided below.
