This season, ski clothing gets even more functional, with high-tech improvements that will make you more comfortable on the slopes. Top brands are also making an effort to design clothing that wouldn't be out of place in the city - no more neon colours and wacky puffy ski suits like in the 70's! And as always, there's an increasing focus on sustainability for the 2019/2020 ski season. Let's take a look at the state-of-the-art ski clothing that's been released this year!
The Sota HS Hooded Jacket is a water and windproof ski jacket by Mammut. The 4-way-stretch structure ensures that the jacket is breathable and provides optimum freedom of movement, whisking away moisture from perspiration so it doesn't stay against your skin. The jacket also features extra insulating Primaloft inserts. Praised for its functionality and durability, this jacket was designed to last and was named "product of the year" by the ISPO jury.
The high-waisted Nordwand GTX by Spyder is extremely functional, with a windproof and waterproof 3-layer construction that keeps out snow and rain. This doesn't prevent it from being breathable, though, and the trousers also have built-in ventilation zippers on the side. Elastic stretch inserts ensure that the pants fit snugly while allowing for a full range of motion.
Just as important as the ski jacket is the midlayer, which hugs your body like a second skin and keeps you warm. The I-Thermic by Odlo incorporates heating technology called Phoenix by MAS, designed to adapt to your body temperature using thin heating elements that are integrated in the shirt. An app allows you to control the temperature so you stay nice and warm even in those long lift queues. Odlo was awarded an ISPO Gold Award for the I-Thermic.
Black Diamond's Solano gloves were also recognised at the ISPO awards in Munich this year. The gloves use GORE-TEX technology and are waterproof but breathable. Special Gore-Warm technology allows you to choose from three different heat settings. Rechargeable batteries hidden underneath the zipper guarantee warmth all day long. The Solano comes in a mitten model and a glove model with fingers.
The Norrøna røldal Thermo Hood is a unique combination of stylish hoodie and functional ski jacket. The plush material on the inside is coated with a durable waterproof DWR coating, and the hoodie also has a PrimaLoft Gold Active layer to protect you from getting too cold. At the same time, the Norrøna røldal Thermo Hood has all the features of a hoodie, including the comfortable fit. The outfit is completed with the soft hood, elastic sleeves and side pockets.
Born and raised in the ski paradise of Vancouver, Canada, I learned to ski before I can remember, balancing precariously on my parents’ skis as they sailed down the hill. I started snowboarding in my teens and am now delighted to be exploring everything Europe’s ski scene has to offer!
