Last weekend I was at Whitetail and while I was in the lodge, I overheard a group of 20-somethings while they were getting ready to head out on their first run. Several of them hadn’t skied before, and one of the guys who had skied before asked his friends how many pairs of socks they were wearing. The response from each was – two. I thought, “What?? That’s the best way to make sure you cut the circulation off to your toes and you’re freezing and miserable!” I kept my nosy self out of it and sure enough the helpful friend encouraged his mates to shed a pair.
The exchange made me realize that many people who haven’t skied or snowboarded simply don’t know how best to dress for the cold. Why would they?
So I thought I’d start out by giving a quick and easy primer on how to layer up to be sure you can stay warm and dry on the slopes and enjoy being out all day long!
The secret is to layer clothing made from materials that keep you dry, like wool, silk and technical fabrics. With the current advances in fabric technology, including four-way stretch, superior wicking ability, and even self-heating, everyone should be able to stay out on the mountain all day and feel warm, dry and happy.
Snow sports retail shops throughout the region are there to help outfit you. Of course, many of the basic items for starting out may be right in your closet. If you are a beginner, you also can consider first renting apparel or visiting swaps either at snow specialty shops or online.
Here are some simple guidelines to help ensure your comfort on the slopes:
Base Layer: This is your next-to-skin layer and will “wick” sweat away from your skin, which keeps you warm even in cold temps. The closer the fit, the warmer you’ll feel. Look for tops and long underwear bottoms made from wool, silk or synthetic technical fabrics with good stretch and wicking technology. A zip neck on the top is often a helpful feature, allowing you to adjust your temperature and airflow throughout the day.
Socks: Socks are a very important component of your base layer. If they don’t fit correctly or are too thick they can cut off your circulation in your feet, causing a lot of discomfort. They should be made from wool, silk or synthetic fabric, never cotton, and should be just thin enough for comfort and warmth without adding too much bulk. Most ski and snowboard socks are specially made to cushion your feet in the spots that work for the sport-specific boot you’ll be wearing. Be sure to read the labels carefully to see where the cushioning is located, and which sport they are specifically made for.
Midlayer: This is the next step to be worn over your base layer, and can be adjusted depending on the temperature. Fleece or wool vests and sweaters, and fleece pants or tights are all great options. Many times these items can be found in your existing wardrobe, which is always a bonus! The insulation layers should be just big enough to wear above your base layer, but should not be baggy. On colder days, you can double up your insulation layer and then adjust throughout the day if need be.
Outer Layer: The goal is to keep wind and snow out, and warmth in, with waterproof jackets and pants. Cotton is absolutely to be avoided in the outer layer because once it gets wet, it stays wet, and snow sticks to it like a magnet. Be sure jacket sleeves are long enough so that there is no gap between them and your gloves. There also should be sufficient overlap between your jacket and pants. It’s no fun when snow goes down your back because your coat is too short! With the proper outer layer, you’ll stay warm, dry and comfy all day.
Accessories: Essential accessories include helmet, waterproof gloves or mittens, and goggles. Additionally you can bring along a neck gaiter for extra warmth, sunscreen, and on very cold days, a head covering that fits under your helmet, such as a thin hat or a balaclava.
Helmet: A good helmet fit is very important, so be sure a shop employee or rental person checks the fit carefully, and then be sure to wear the strap comfortably snug under your chin. Many times helmets can be added for a minimal cost to a ski or snowboard rental, so look into that if you will be renting your equipment. Helmets are a very important snow sports safety precaution, reducing the rate of head injury by 60%, according to a study by the New England Journal of Medicine.
Gloves or mittens: It’s a matter of personal preference – mittens provide extra warmth since fingers can stay together, but gloves allow for better dexterity. Glove liners with tech touch pads on the fingertips are a great addition to gloves or mittens on a cold day. With liners, you can take pictures or check in with your group on your phone without exposing your fingers to the cold.
Goggles: Goggles can be purchased fairly inexpensively at any snow sports specialty shop, and will fit over your helmet to give you a good protective barrier for your eyes. They keep wind and snow from hitting your eyes and will protect them from the glare of the sun as well. A bonus is the extra warmth they provide to the top half of your face.
Hat, balaclava, neck gaiter: A thin hat can fit under your helmet for extra warmth, and can also keep you warm and stylish after you take your helmet off in the lodge. A balaclava is a great option on a very cold day, since it combines a neck gaiter and a head covering, keeping wind and snow out. A neck gaiter is a good choice on a cold day as well, and should always be worn instead of a scarf, since it’s less bulky and doesn’t have loose ends that can get caught up in your clothing or equipment.
Sunscreen: Hard to believe you can get a sunburn in the middle of winter, but that snow reflects the sun and your skin needs protection. Always apply sunscreen before hitting the slopes. Also, on a very windy, cold day, a salve with SPF, like Dermatone, can protect cheeks and nose from frostnip as well as sunburn.
As the saying goes, “It’s always great weather if you’re dressed for it.” With a little planning, and with the help of a knowledgeable rental or salesperson at a reputable shop, you can brave any of the elements that mother nature throws your way. With the right ensemble, you’ll be warm, dry, and loving your day on the slopes.
