What To Wear On Your Ski Holiday

What To Wear When Skiing

Ski Outerwear:

• Ski jacket: Invest in an insulated, waterproof ski jacket to ensure you are warm and toasty as you head down the slopes.  Look for one with a lift pass pocket to save you taking it in and out. 
• Ski trousers: Also known as salopettes, these waterproof trousers keep your legs warm and dry. You can choose between a regular ski pant and a ski bib pant. Ski bib pants are like snow-ready dungarees. Planks’ bib pants have a handy ‘escape hatch’ design, which means you don’t have to take all your layers to use the toilet, a real perk.
• Snowsuit: Great for kids - these all-in-ones make it quicker to get them out the door while keeping their whole body cosy and snug.

Layering:

• Base layers: Pack a few long-sleeved tops and thermal leggings, to keep you dry and warm.
• Insulator Jackets: If you’re wearing a shell Jacket, it’s recommended to wear a mid-layer insulator jacket under your ski jacket.
• Mid-layers: A thin fleece or merino wool jumper will add an extra level of warmth.

Accessories:

• Ski gloves: Thick, waterproof gloves are the best way to keep your hands warm when on the slopes. 
• Ski socks: The best socks are long, thin and seamless - they will keep your feet toasty and will help prevent blisters.
• Buff/neck warmer: A thin, stretchy tube of insulating material that you can wear around your neck to cover up the gap above your jacket. If the temperature really drops, you can pull it up over your mouth too.

Eyewear:

• Goggles: Essential to protect your eyes while you’re skiing, shop around to find the right lens for your trip. Top Tip: Remember to take a microfiber cloth to keep the lenses clean and dry. 

What To Wear When Not Skiing

• Casual, comfy clothes: There is no need for formal dress in most resorts – a few pairs of jeans and jumpers will do and no need to pack extra jackets for the evening, your daytime ski jacket will keep you cosy in the evenings too. 
• Hat, gloves, and scarf: Pack a separate pair of gloves for any time you are off piste - you don’t want to be trying to enjoy your vin chaud wearing a clumpy pair of ski gloves. Go for wool or fleece to keep out the chill.
• Sunglasses: Again, swap goggles for sunglasses when you’re off the slopes.
• Waterproof shoes/boots: Ensure you take a pair of waterproof shoes with a good grip to wear around the resort and your trainers will be a soggy mess in no time.
• Slippers: To keep your feet cosy when you’re inside.

Often Forgotten Extras

• Small rucksack: A lightweight, waterproof bag can be useful for carrying water and snacks on the mountain. 
• Wrist guards and knee pads: A great idea for beginners and boarders as you’ll probably be falling over a lot at first!
• Glove liners: These are great if you struggle with circulation issues - an extra pair of thin gloves under your waterproof ones will trap another layer of warmth.
• Hand warmers: Tuck a couple of reusable hand warmers into your pocket, ready to give off hours of heat at the click of a button.
• Sun cream: Don’t be fooled by the temperature - even when it’s cold out, the sun’s UV rays can still do damage, especially at high altitude.
• Lip balm: The mountain air can really dry out your lips, so come prepared.
• Swimsuit: Many resorts have a pool or hot tub somewhere so remember your swimsuit if you want to go for a dip.
• Flip-flops: In most public spas and pools, you’ll need to wear flip-flops. You can usually buy them there, but it’s easier and cheaper to just bring your own.
• Water bottle: Staying hydrated is key when you’re skiing. Choose a reusable bottle to cut down waste – and if you’re not taking a bag, get a collapsible one that you can squeeze into your pocket.
• Snacks: Stash a few snacks in your jacket to keep up your energy levels throughout the day – bring them from home to save on resort prices.

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