Top 5 Outfitting Tips for Skiers & Riders

Jan 31, 2021

Having a fantastic day skiing, riding, or snowshoeing begins with dressing appropriately for the conditions. This means dressing in layers that will keep you warm and allow you to adapt to changing temperatures and activity levels throughout the day.

Step 1 – Socks:  Nothing ruins a day on the slopes as quickly as cold toes and feet! We recommend wearing a single pair of socks that wick moisture away from your feet.  Wearing socks made of cotton, which absorbs moisture, and wearing multiple layers of socks will lead to chilly toes.  We carry socks for children and adults at a wide range of prices.  If you really want to pamper yourself, we recommend our ultra-lite cashmere-silk-merino wool blend socks!

Step 2 – Base Layers (aka long underwear): The keys to great base layers are the fabric, the fit and the weight.  You’ll want base layers that are made of a moisture-wicking material such as merino wool, synthetics, or silk and fit snugly so that moisture is pulled away from your skin.  Depending on the temperature and your cold tolerance, you can then choose among lightweight, medium weight, or heavyweight tops and leggings/pants.  You can add a mid-layer quarter-zip or crewneck over the layer you wear next to your skin for added warmth. We carry Terramar base layers that come in a variety of sizes, colors, and weights, all in moisture-wicking fabrics.

Step 3 – Gloves: Fingers can get cold, too! Whether you prefer gloves, three-finger gloves, or mittens, you will find Gordini gloves that meet your needs in the shop.  To keep your little ones warm we have ski mittens for children and toddlers in fun colors.

Step 4 –Balaclavas, and Gaiters/Buffs: Winter Park/Mary Jane and Granby Ranch are participating in the “Shred Another Day” and “Save Our Season” https://wpgov.com/covid-19/ initiatives in Grand County.  These guidelines include requiring face-coverings while in lift lines, on lifts, around the base, and anytime you are inside resort buildings. The resorts are strictly enforcing these policies. Face-coverings are also required for riders who are 10 and older on The Lift shuttle buses.   We carry neck gaiters (aka: buffs) and balaclavas from Bula and Armada in a variety of colors, fun patterns, and weights These will meet the resorts’ requirements and help keep you warm even on the coldest days.  

Step 5 – Outerwear (Jackets and Pants): Your outer layers provide insulation and help keep you dry no matter how deep the powder.  We have a wide selection of men’s and women’s jackets and pants from Armada and Boulder Gear (including shells and down filled jackets).  These are steezy (stylish and easy), in top-of-the line fabrics and at reasonable prices. 

You’ll have an epic day on the mountain when your layers of clothing keep you comfortable and warm!

You can pre-shop all our gear at https://skialpinesun.com/pre-shop/