What to wear, now that ski season is finally here!

Just a few tips if you haven’t put together your ski fit for this season!

A few favorite recommendations (no sponsorship, just good quality, long-lasting gear).
— The Stio Doublecharge insulated jacket is a favorite. For a great Stio shell-only option, try the Environ. Great colors and features. Patagonia, Helly Hansen, and Flylow are also go-to jacket brands for great women’s fit and function.

— For bottoms, Flylow and Obermeyer are the best if you’re petite or not a typical size. Lots of size and length options, bibs or no bibs. And if they’re still too long, just make sure you get a pair without zippers at the bottom and you can have them shortened!

— Be aware that helmets are best purchased in-store. Different brands have different basic shapes, and I have found that I am a Giro shape, not a Smith shape. You gotta try them on 🙂 In Northern Virginia, I’m a big fan of the Alpine Ski Shop. They have very knowledgeable salespeople, and will steer you right.

— Flylow leather gloves and mitts are perfect for our area. They’re not too warm, and they mold to your hand, they’re my absolute favorite. You can put leather waterproofing from Nikwax on them to keep them waterproof. Highly recommend!

— For base layers, this year I am loving the Ski the East and Wild Rye base layers. They’re super soft and comfortable, and cute patterns. I always add a merino wool layer over my base, and I am a longtime devotee of Kari Traa for these. You’ll always see me in my Rose half zip, it’s super warm without bulk.

— Darn Tough ski socks are the very best, hands down. Love love love. They last forever, have great designs and patterns, and are smooth inside your ski boots. I always get the thinnest kind without cushion, because I think it’s actually warmer — the cushioned kind have too much padding and cut off my circulation. I also think having more direct contact inside your boot with less sock in between gives better control over your foot movement and ability to tip and steer your skis.

— Last but not least, after skiing you’ll want to put a hat on your helmet head, and I always recommend Skida headwear. I have known the woman who started Skida for a long time and the quality, the authenticity, and the function are the best. I love that she employs a lot of local Vermont seamstresses and knitters; it’s just a great company all-around.

Hope this is helpful in setting up your ultimate ski mom kit. If you have brands or styles you love, leave a comment and let me know– I always like hearing about new skiwear to try!