What to Wear Skiing: A Layer-by-Layer Guide
By Justin McKelvey · Updated
Short answer: wear three layers (a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid layer, and a waterproof jacket and pants), one pair of thin ski socks, waterproof gloves or mittens, goggles, and a helmet. Skip cotton anywhere on your body.
The three-layer system
1. Base layer
A snug top and bottom made of merino wool or synthetic fabric. Its job is to move sweat away from your skin. Cotton holds moisture and makes you cold, so avoid cotton t-shirts, leggings, and underwear.
2. Mid layer
A fleece, light puffy, or wool sweater for warmth. This is the layer you adjust most: thicker on cold days, lighter or none on warm spring days.
3. Shell: jacket and pants
Waterproof, breathable ski pants (or bibs) and a jacket. Look for a waterproof rating and taped seams if you'll ski in falling snow, a powder skirt to keep snow out, and vents for warm days.
Head to toe checklist
- Helmet: standard at nearly every resort and available to rent.
- Goggles: protect your eyes from wind, snow, and glare. A low-light lens helps on stormy days; a darker lens is for sunny days.
- Neck gaiter or balaclava: keeps wind off your face on the lift.
- Gloves or mittens: waterproof and insulated. Mittens are warmer; gloves give more dexterity.
- Socks: one pair of thin or midweight ski socks that come up over the calf. Two pairs or thick cotton socks cause cold feet and blisters.
- Sunscreen and lip balm: UV is stronger at altitude and reflects off snow.
Adjust for the conditions
- Cold, below about 15°F: heavier base layer, warm mid layer, mittens, balaclava, and hand warmers.
- Snowing: fully waterproof shell, low-light goggle lens, and a hood that fits over your helmet.
- Spring, above freezing: base layer and shell only, vents open, lighter gloves, darker goggle lens.
Check the resort's forecast before you pack. Every Snow Way resort page shows the 7-day snow outlook so you know whether you're dressing for a storm.
What not to wear
- Jeans or cotton sweatpants: they soak through and freeze.
- Bulky layers under your ski pants that bunch up in your boots. Only socks go inside ski boots.
- Fashion sunglasses instead of goggles on snowy or windy days.
FAQ
What should I wear skiing for the first time?
A synthetic or wool base layer, a fleece mid layer, waterproof ski jacket and pants, one pair of ski socks, waterproof gloves, goggles, and a rental helmet. Avoid cotton.
Can I wear leggings under ski pants?
Yes, if they're synthetic or wool. Cotton leggings hold sweat and make you cold.
How many layers should I wear skiing?
Usually three: a base layer, an insulating mid layer, and a waterproof shell. Add or remove the mid layer depending on temperature.
Should I wear two pairs of socks skiing?
No. One pair of thin or midweight ski socks is warmer and more comfortable; two pairs reduce circulation and cause blisters.