Keeping Warm on the Slopes: The Layering System

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Whether you’re skiing for the first time or a seasoned pro, we all need to wear suitable clothing to keep warm on the slopes. Fluctuating temperatures throughout the season means it’s crucial to ensure you have the right number of layers.

During the initial winter season (from December through to February) temperatures can be particularly harsh when sunshine may be limited so we would recommend you wear at least 2 or 3 layers under your outer ski jacket.

1. The Base Layer

When building your layers, it is always essential to start with a thermal baselayer. Skiing can be hard work so the base layer needs to be both breathable and thermal to ensure sweat is sufficiently wicked away from the skin.

Both your arms and your legs need to be covered, and we have a number of matching baselayer sets!

Have a look at our selection of suitable baselayers:

Womens

Mens

Junior

2. The Midlayer

Next we have the midlayer, 1 or 2 lightweight layers worn over the baselayer. It is best to opt for multiple lightweight midlayers instead of 1 bulkier layer as this ensures you are not restricted in movement and have the option to remove layers if there is a change in temperature throughout the day.

It is important to note that children usually feel the cold more than adults, especially if they are new to skiing and aren’t moving around as much. Always ensure you take plenty of layers with you as they may  need up to 3 layers on very cold days.

If you are skiing in spring, it is likely you will only need 1 layer all day.

Here’s some of the midlayers that we like to wear:

Womens

Mens

Junior

3. The Outerlayer

The final layer is the outerlayer – your jacket and salopettes. These are meant to protect against the elements, whether it is windy, wet or snowing. Make sure you choose a jacket which will perform well under the varying conditions.

Other Essential Layers

Socks

Ski socks are essential for providing the right level of comfort and protection for the hours you spend in those lovely ski boots!

Whether you choose a tube sock or a fitted sock you should only ever wear one pair. If it is particularly cold, you can add a thermal sock liner and/or a heated foot warmer.

Gloves

Gloves are essential in all weather to provide protection from the cold and wind, especially when you’re holding ski poles and grabbing handles on chair lifts.

Some people feel the cold more than others so make sure your gloves are suitable to the level of warmth you feel you need. If you suffer from cold hands, consider Down Filled Gloves or add a thermal liner inside your glove and/or a heated hand warmer.

Neckwarmer

Some kind of neck warmer is essential to keep the wind and cold out and can usually be drawn up under the helmet for added warmth to your head.

Have a look at some of our favourites:

Adult

Junior