Don’t overlook the small essentials, winter gear worth packing adds comfort, protection, and convenience to your ski day. While your main layers handle warmth and weather, these extra items help you stay prepared for long lift rides, deep snow, and changing conditions. From boosting warmth in your boots and gloves to shielding your skin from sun and wind, the right accessories can make a big difference in how enjoyable and safe your time on the mountain feels.
• Hand and toe warmers for long lift rides
• Gaiters to keep snow out of your boots and pants
• Waterproof boots for the parking lot or après ski
• Lip balm and sunscreen, UV rays are still strong in the cold
EXPERT GUIDE
How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather: Pro Tips for Skiing, Snowboarding & Winter Adventures
Understanding the right layers, gear, and preparation can keep you dry, comfortable, and warm, no matter what the forecast says.
EXPERT GUIDE
How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather: Pro Tips for Skiing, Snowboarding & Winter Adventures
Understanding the right layers, gear, and preparation can keep you dry, comfortable, and warm, no matter what the forecast says.
Layering for Skiing and Snowboarding: The 3-Layer System
Layering for Skiing and Snowboarding:
The 3-Layer System
The foundation of staying warm in freezing temps is a proper layering system. Each layer plays a critical role in moisture management, insulation, and weather protection. When combined correctly, these layers help regulate body temperature, wick away sweat, and block out wind and snow for all-day comfort on the mountain.
The foundation of staying warm in freezing temps is a proper layering system. Each layer plays a critical role in moisture management, insulation, and weather protection. When combined correctly, these layers help regulate body temperature, wick away sweat, and block out wind and snow for all-day comfort on the mountain.
[1] Base Layer: Moisture Control
Start with a moisture-wicking base layer made from Merino wool or synthetic fabric to pull sweat away, regulate temperature, and keep you dry, never wear cotton, as it traps moisture and causes chills.
[2] Mid Layer: Insulation
Your midlayer provides warmth and insulation, so choose a fleece or puffy jacket that’s breathable, lightweight, and designed to trap heat while allowing airflow.
[3] Outer Layer: Weather Protection
Your shell outerwear shields you from wind, snow, and moisture, so choose waterproof, windproof ski jackets and pants with seam-sealed construction, vent zips, and powder skirts for protection.
Alyeska Jacket with 60g Primaloft® Insulation as an alternative to a shell system
Keep Extremities Warm
Keep Extremities Warm
Your hands, feet, and head are the first places to feel the cold. Invest in high-quality accessories that retain heat and block wind. Even with a well-layered core, cold extremities can quickly lead to discomfort or shorten your ski day.
Your hands, feet, and head are the first places to feel the cold. Invest in high-quality accessories that retain heat and block wind. Even with a well-layered core, cold extremities can quickly lead to discomfort or shorten your ski day.
Neck Gaiters or Balaclavas
Protect against windburn and snow entry.
Insulated Gloves or Mittens
Mittens are warmer; gloves offer dexterity.
Beanies
Retain heat on bitter days, between activities.
Regulate Your Body Temperature
The key to comfort on the mountain is staying dry, not just from the snow, but from your own sweat. When you're riding hard, your body generates heat quickly, and if you overheat, you'll get cold fast once you stop moving.
Pro Tips:
• Open pit zips or thigh vents when you're working hard
• Pack an extra midlayer to swap out if one gets damp
• Don’t overdress, start a little chilly and warm up on the go
Regulate Your Body Temperature
The key to comfort on the mountain is staying dry, not just from the snow, but from your own sweat. When you're riding hard, your body generates heat quickly, and if you overheat, you'll get cold fast once you stop moving.
Pro Tips:
• Open pit zips or thigh vents when you're working hard
• Pack an extra midlayer to swap out if one gets damp
• Don’t overdress, start a little chilly and warm up on the go
Dump Extra Heat – make use of your jacket and pant ventilation
Stay Dry – change your midlayer during a mid-day break
Dump Extra Heat – make use of your jacket and pant ventilation
Stay Dry – change your midlayer during a mid-day break
Essential Cold Weather Gear for the Slopes
Essential Cold Weather Gear for the Slopes
Don’t overlook the small essentials, winter gear worth packing adds comfort, protection, and convenience to your ski day. While your main layers handle warmth and weather, these extra items help you stay prepared for long lift rides, deep snow, and changing conditions. From boosting warmth in your boots and gloves to shielding your skin from sun and wind, the right accessories can make a big difference in how enjoyable and safe your time on the mountain feels.
• Hand and toe warmers for long lift rides
• Gaiters to keep snow out of your boots and pants
• Waterproof boots for the parking lot or après ski
• Lip balm and sunscreen, UV rays are still strong in the cold
Don’t overlook the small essentials, winter gear worth packing adds comfort, protection, and convenience to your ski day. While your main layers handle warmth and weather, these extra items help you stay prepared for long lift rides, deep snow, and changing conditions. From boosting warmth in your boots and gloves to shielding your skin from sun and wind, the right accessories can make a big difference in how enjoyable and safe your time on the mountain feels.
• Hand and toe warmers for long lift rides
• Gaiters to keep snow out of your boots and pants
• Waterproof boots for the parking lot or après ski
• Lip balm and sunscreen, UV rays are still strong in the cold
What to Wear Skiing in Freezing Temperatures
Here’s a quick breakdown to help guide your layering based on winter conditions. While personal warmth preference varies, these recommendations offer a solid starting point.
30°F (-1°C) and Above
• Base layer + insulated shell jacket
• Light gloves, beanie, and gaiter
20–30°F (-6°C to -1°C)
• Base + fleece midlayer + waterproof shell
• Mittens, insulated pants, balaclava
Below 20°F (-6°C)
• Base + puffer or insulated midlayer + 3L shell
• Bib pants, toe warmers, full face coverage
Snow or Windy Days
• Add neck gaiter and upgrade to mittens and bib pants
• Look for snow skirts, helmet-compatible hoods
• During days of high output, you will tend to heat up on the ski down and cool off on the lift.
What to Wear Skiing in Freezing Temperatures
Here’s a quick breakdown to help guide your layering based on winter conditions. While personal warmth preference varies, these recommendations offer a solid starting point.
30°F (-1°C) and Above
• Base layer + insulated shell jacket
• Light gloves, beanie, and gaiter
20–30°F (-6°C to -1°C)
• Base + fleece midlayer + waterproof shell
• Mittens, insulated pants, balaclava
Below 20°F (-6°C)
• Base + puffer or insulated midlayer + 3L shell
• Bib pants, toe warmers, full face coverage
Snow or Windy Days
• Add neck gaiter and upgrade to mittens and bib pants
• Look for snow skirts, helmet-compatible hoods
• During days of high output, you will tend to heat up on the ski down and cool off on the lift.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many layers do I need for cold weather skiing?
A hard shell jacket is fully waterproof and windproof, designed for harsh weather conditions. A soft shell jacket is more breathable and flexible, offering comfort and water resistance in dry or mild conditions.
What materials are best for staying warm in winter?
The best materials for winter warmth include merino wool, synthetic base layers, fleece, down insulation, and waterproof breathable outerwear. Avoid cotton, which holds moisture and leads to chills.
How do I keep my hands and feet warm while skiing?
To keep your hands and feet warm while skiing, wear insulated waterproof gloves or mittens, thermal ski socks, and consider hand and toe warmers for extra heat. Make sure your boots and gloves fit properly to prevent circulation issues.
Is it better to wear mittens or gloves in cold weather?
Ski mittens are typically warmer because they retain body heat by keeping fingers together, while ski gloves offer more dexterity. For very cold conditions, mittens with liners or heated options are a great choice.
How do I stay warm on the chairlift?
To stay warm on the chairlift, make sure you’re wearing windproof ski outerwear, keep zippers closed, and use neck gaiters or balaclavas to cover exposed skin. Add hand warmers to gloves and keep moving your fingers and toes to maintain circulation.
What should I eat or drink to stay warm while skiing?
Eating high-protein snacks and drinking warm fluids can help keep your core temperature up. Staying hydrated also supports circulation, which is crucial for maintaining warmth in cold environments.
Can ski gear lose insulation over time?
Yes, over time, ski insulation—especially synthetic fill or down—can compress and lose its effectiveness. Proper storage, occasional washing with appropriate cleaners, and avoiding overuse of heat can extend your gear’s warmth performance.