What clothes for the skier?

If it’s important to give thought to the choice of a good pair of skis adapted to one’s level to progress on the slopes, it is just as important to envisage the proper clothing because it is pleasant neither for the beginning skier nor for the more experienced skier to be either cold or hot on the slopes. To take full advantage of skiing pleasures, one has to be comfortable in one’s clothes. So here’s some advice on the choice of appropriate clothing for skiing.

The golden rule for skiers: layering

Comfort, warmth and breathability are the essential requirements of good ski clothing: on the slopes, a skier should be neither too warm, nor too cold! To that end, it’s advisable to wear several layers of clothing that will guarantee the best adjustment to changing temperatures. For frequent skiers, technical clothing composed of sophisticated fibres adapted to sports use is ideal!

As a general rule, there are three layers of clothing to consider:

• The first layer should be both warm and breathable. We recommend clothing that is thin and close fitting that permits the easy evacuation of perspiration. These can be underclothes made of synthetic technical fibres or 100% Merino wool.

• The second layer should insulate. Here we are talking about an article of clothing that keeps in warmth, fleece for instance. The fabric has the advantage of being light and of drying quickly.

• The third layer should guarantee complete protection against the cold, the wind, and humidity: choose a jacket and snow pants or coveralls but choose clothing that is both waterproof and breathable, with a Gore-Tex soft shell. Remember to choose clothing with an efficient hood and sufficient pockets for stashing necessities (handkerchiefs, money, granola bars).

Know that the three layer principle is necessary but that it is also possible to ski by layering a cotton t-shirt and one’s ordinary wool sweater for occasional skiing or for a first time approach to skiing. You’ll lose out a bit on the comfort but not on the budget. There will be time enough once you’re hooked on skiing to add to your equipment with clothing specially designed for snow sports.

Getting ready for a winter 2014 / 2015 skiing or snowboarding trip ? Need the best ski gear ? Our partner, DECATHLON, stock a wide selection of ski and snowboard clothing.

Read the other topics from the "How to prepare your ski holidays" section:

• Eating for skiing .
• Protecting your skin from the sun .
• Protecting the eyes from the sun .
• Ski clothing .
• How to choose ski gloves
• Head protection: the ski helmet