What to Wear to go Skiing or Snowboarding
How to Wear Layers to Stay Warm
So you decided that you want to try skiing or snowboarding and have no idea what to wear. You go to the internet and are instantly bombarded with hundreds of choices and technical terms you don’t understand. What does 50 grams per square meter (gsm) and 16,000 - 20,000mm mean and what does it have to do with just getting a jacket?
Before we get into the technicalities of warmth levels and waterproofing of clothing lets start with the basic; layering. Layering the right types of clothing will ensure that you stay warm and dry on the mountain.
Base Layer
Piece of clothing closest to the skin; the underwear layer (top & bottom). The key to choosing a base layer is to ensure it is moisture wicking. Be sure to avoid cotton. It can be winter sport specific or even just a long sleeve synthetic workout shirt and leggings.
Mid Layer
Garment worn as a second layer, known as the insulating layer. Can be a fleece, softshell or lightweight insulating jacket. Mid Layers are especially important if your jacket is just a shell and not insulated.
Neck Gaiter/ Buff/ Balaclava
Covering your neck and ears will keep you warm on cold and windy days. It can also be used as a face covering to prevent wind burn. Do not use a regular scarf as this is a hazard on the lift.
Socks
Wear merino blend socks or ski/snowboard socks which have high tech insulation properties such as Primaloft or Thermolite. Never cotton. Only wear one pair of ski socks. Ensure your socks come up above your boot.
Jacket
Whatever jacket you pick, make sure it will keep you dry, warm, and will let your body breathe. Also be aware that some jackets are shells with no insulation. Look for a power skirt, vents, pockets for phone and ski pass. For more information on choosing a jacket go to EVO’s article on “How to choose a Ski & Snowboard Jacket”
Pants
Pants or a Bib (like overalls) are both fine for keeping you warm. Make sure that the pants fit so that you can move well and squat. Pants can also come insulated or just a shell. Look for leg vents to keep cool, if you get a bib I personally recommend you get a bib with the rear zipper opening to make it easier to go to the bathroom.
Bottom Line
Layers are your friend. It allows you to stay warm and it is easy to remove layers if you become warm.
In the PNW you will want your jacket and pants to have some waterproofing/water resistance. The higher the mm number the more water resistant the jacket and pants will be. You will want at least 10,000 mm of water resistance.
Insulated jackets are a good option for beginners. I will usually only wear a base layer with an insulated jacket. If it is really cold I will add a mid layer like a thin fleece or pull over. Look for about 100gsm of insulation
