Many people have begun liking winter sports, especially skiing. All the new ski lovers remember to research skiing styles, the best snowy peaks to shred, and perfect skis.
However, the most important aspect of skiing is the wearable gear that protects the skier from harsh weather and wetness and provides comfort while going against the cold wind. There are plenty of layers, clothing, and equipment that a person needs to safely ski down a slippery mountain. So, what to wear if you’re first time skiing?
A first-time skier will need plenty of protection from the wind and cold as they are unfamiliar with the harsh skiing conditions. Therefore, you will need base layers, mid layers, ski jackets, trousers, goggles, socks, gloves, snood, etc.
Related: How Many Calories Does Skiing Burn?
Here is a detailed overview of what you will need for your first-time skiing adventure. Keep scrolling!
Basic Layers
When sliding down the snowy slopes, you need a warm base layer to maintain your body temperature. The best material for underlayer is polyester and merino. Skiing can make your body heat up and sweat.
The moisture endangers your body by getting wet and cold. With the suitable material, you can use your body heat to keep you warm without sweating.
When choosing clothes to wear under your ski jacket and trouser, it is best to go for quality over style. Avoid looking for the latest fashion and cut. Instead, wear what is most durable, warm, and cold-friendly.
Mid Layers
Snow requires plenty of layering, which means you need a solid layer above your inner layer of clothes. Fleece and jumper material are the best to wear over your base layer. It will help the base layer with keeping you warm.
Apart from increasing your body temperature, fleece is comfortable and stretchy. The material’s flexibility and versatility will help you enjoy your skiing to the maximum.
Ski Jackets
The next most important piece of clothing for your torso is a well-made ski jacket. As a beginner, you can only wear some ski jackets out in the market.
Therefore, you have to carefully choose a ski jacket that will give you enough room to feel comfortable and keep you warm at the same time. There are three types of ski jackets that skiers can wear:
Hardshell jackets
Expert skiers and free riders often prefer these types of ski jackets. It is because it provides the best protection from harsh weather and durability.
Softshell jackets
Softshell jackets are not as waterproof as hardshell ones. However, they will work fine in considerably less snowfall. The perk of softshell jackets is that they are stretchier and flow with your body movement.
Insulated jackets
Insulated jackets are perfect for beginners. They provide the right amount of warmth to your body while keeping the sweat away. As a newbie, your biggest challenge will be getting used to the weather than learning ski skills.
Ski jackets are where you can look for stylish and colorful designs. You can even choose a specific patterned ski jacket to stand out in the crowd of fellow skiers.
Ski Trousers
Now that you know how to keep your upper body warm, you must know about the appropriate clothing for your lower body. There are two types of trousers you can choose from:
Salopettes
These are ski pants but with suspenders. They are like dungarees that go higher than your waist and provide warmth and support.
Ski trousers
Ski trousers are like your usual trousers. They go to your waist and protect you from the snow. They are waterproof and can keep you warm while you sleigh down the mountain.
Ski Socks
Before you jump into those nice look ski boots, you must choose the perfect pair of socks for yourself. Ski socks have thick material and texture that prevent heat from escaping your feet.
Furthermore, they provide elasticity and moisture management inside your shoes to give you the easiest skiing experience.
Ski Boots
Ski boots might be an essential part of your skiing gear. It is the boots that help you wear your skis and feel free. Perfect ski boots need to hug your feet. They must have the most suitable material to keep your feet warm, dry, and comfortable.
Be sure to wear them out before going skiing. It will help you get familiar with the material and feel of the boots.
Mittens
Most people prefer ski gloves over mittens. However, mittens provide you with more heat and protection from the harsh wind on the mountain. However, mittens do have their flaws.
For instance, it will be hard to grasp or hold something when you can use only some of your fingers individually. All is good and right when it comes to gloves and mittens. It would help if you chose whichever is comfortable and easy for you.
Goggles
Light bounces off the snow and becomes extra sharp for our eyes. Therefore, it is best to wear glare-proof goggles for ultimate eye protection.
When buying ski goggles for yourself, ensure that the equipment is heavy-duty to protect your eyes from the snow, wind, and light.
Scarf Or Snoods
It is essential to protect your face when riding against the wind. The air up in the mountains can get quite crisp and chilly. It can give you sunburns and snow burns.
Wearing a snood or covering your face with a scarf is the best way to save your face from the harsh environment of the snowy hills. Ensure that the snood you choose is breathable yet waterproof.
Winter Hat
Your head needs to stay warm while you slide down the icy hill. So you should wear a winter hat that is warm and insulating to trap the heat and prevent it from escaping your helmet. Plus, it will also help keep the cold out.
Ski Helmet
Skiing can be a dangerous sport if you do not equip yourself properly. The snow is quite slippery, and a beginner can quickly lose control of their skis.
To prevent yourself from getting an injury, you should get a durable and solid helmet that can survive strong hits if needed.
Sunscreen
Lastly, you will need to protect your skin from the shining sun. When surrounded by snow, the sun’s rays will double their intensity.
In addition, it is easier for beginners to get sunburns as their skin is sensitive to the atmosphere of the mountains. To protect your skin, use sunscreen with SPF 50 or above for the intense sun of the snowy peak.
Lip Balm
The harsh weather and chilly winds can make your lips dry. Chapped lips are prone to blisters and cuts. Use a highly moisturizing lip balm to keep your lips plump and supple throughout your skiing trip.
Final Word
Skiing may seem accessible to beginners, and it can be with the right gear if you choose your clothing and equipment wisely. Remember to check the weather before you go so you can pack the proper ski items and take precautionary measures to fight the snowy winds.
Once you gear up in your skiing clothes, nothing cans top you from shredding those slopes!
