For many, skiwear is the last thing to consider when planning a winter sports holiday. Others, however, buy a new outfit every year. Do you care about keeping up with the latest fashion, or do you opt for functionality? Especially on cold, windy or snowy days, the right skiwear is very important. But, even on a sunny day, it can be a shame if you are dressed too warmly. In this blog, we have listed 10 skiwear tips for you.
When buying your skiwear, try not to be guided merely by the looks of your new ski jacket or ski trousers, but also look at its functionality. Think about the material the garment is made of. Moreover, pay attention to other features, such as a powder skirt in a ski jacket or ski trousers.
The layer system is now well-established in the world of skiwear. This so-called 3-layer system consists of a good base layer (thermal underwear), then a mid-layer (fleece, down or other 'insulation') and finally a protective outer layer (jacket or softshell). It enables you to adapt to the weather conditions, so you never have to be too hot or too cold. On warm days, you can wear a thinner mid-layer, while on cold days, a fleece or a warm sweater.
The different layers of your skiwear provide warmth and wick away the sweat. The outer layers of your skiwear, jacket and trousers should be waterproof and, if possible, windproof and breathable as well. Winter sportswear materials are constantly being developed to make better clothes, giving you better value for your money.
The importance of the first layer of skiwear is frequently underestimated. Avoid cotton underwear and opt for functional thermal shirts and trousers. Synthetic or woollen thermal underwear wicks away sweat and keeps you warm during winter sports.
Quality winter sportswear does not necessarily have to be expensive. Shops like Decathlon, but also Aldi or Lidl, sell excellent and functional skiwear if you go on winter sports one week a year and don't want to spend a fortune. Expensive winter sports brands such as Peak Performance, The North Face or Kjus make high-quality functional winter sports clothing with an optimal fit and freedom of movement. Such items are costly but also offer quality and comfort. There is a range of skiwear between these two extremes, some better than others. Sometimes you can pay a lot for a 'lifestyle brand'. So expensive wear is often better, but certainly not always!
While skiing and snowboarding, you move a lot. So your skiwear mustn't restrict your movements. Make sure you buy the right size (do not buy skiwear that is too small) and a good fit. When trying a new outfit in the store, bend your knees and make circles with your arms. Can you move around comfortably? Nice! Nowadays, a lot of winter sportswear is made of elastic fabric that allows even more freedom of movement. Moreover, pay attention to the garment's weight when shopping - you will move a lot easier in light skiwear!
If you know precisely what you are looking for, you can buy your skiwear online or in a shop. Otherwise, go to a good ski shop and ask for advice. State your budget requirements clearly. A good salesperson will be happy to help you find the right skiwear.
Also, take good care of your head, hands and feet. Practical, well-fitting and not-too-thick ski socks can make a big difference in your ski boots. Warm and waterproof gloves are a must. Do you often suffer from cold hands? Then opt for mittens. You can also wear thin inner gloves under your main gloves so your hands won't get sweaty. And don't forget a warm and well-fitting ski helmet and ski goggles!
A complete winter sports outfit is expensive; that is a fact. If you cannot or do not want to buy everything at once, see if you can borrow something from friends or family. You can also buy winter sportswear second-hand - it will surely be good enough for a start!
Most ski clothes can also be worn in everyday life. If you choose a neutral ski jacket, it can also serve as a winter coat. Warm ski socks also work well in the evening on the couch in front of the TV, and a thermal shirt under a windbreaker is an excellent running outfit.
I grew up in Slovenia, close to the Julian Alps. Early on, my parents put me on skis and skates, and the winter sports enthusiasm hasn't left me since. I also enjoy cross-country skiing and have been a keen snowboarder for the past 20 years.
