The Ultimate Guide to Ski Clothes: Essential Gear for Every Skier
Whether you’re a seasoned alpinist or a green trail aficionado, good ski clothes matter. The right outfit isn’t just a matter of style—it’s crucial for comfort, safety, and performance.
Why Good Ski Clothes Matter
The snow coverage across the US is falling by a staggering 2,083 square miles per year, but our dedication to the trails shows no sign of abating. The global ski gear industry expects to hit $2.45 billion by 2032. It’s big business, with global players such as Arc’teryx and Patagonia slugging it out along with a refreshing number of smaller independent brands, not to mention major fashion houses like H&M also getting involved.
The Best Ski Clothes for Every Budget
While we’re guilty of being swayed by technical fabrics and high-performance materials—this is WIRED, after all—there’s plenty of great ski clothes for all budgets and ages too. Check out our other outdoor buying guides and reviews, like the Best Ski Gloves and Mittens, the Best Ski Helmets, and the Best Action Cameras.
Top Picks for Ski Clothes
1. Oakley Mod1 Mips Aura Helmet
The Mod1 Mips is a classic Oakley helmet, offering a reassuring mix of low-profile skate styling and serious skull protection. You probably spotted American athletes, including silver medalist freestyle skier Mac Forehand, sporting a shimmery version in Italy. This is part of the Aura collection from Oakley, which includes goggles and glasses, and while these limited-edition drops usually come with a steep markup, the Mod1 helmet remains a bargain, especially as it has a Boa 360 dial system, and anti-fog venting.
2. Rab Khroma Diffract Insulated Jacket
Rab has created a super technical jacket stuffed with toasty warm 100 percent recycled Primaloft Silver insulation. It’s lightweight (24.7 ounces or 702 grams, size medium), and far from bulky. Designed for backcountry adventures, but ideal for resort-bound fun too, the secret here is the use of Rab’s own Proflex stretch nylon fabric.
3. Swany Calore Mittens
Swany makes highly impressive mittens and gloves. This season, I’ve been obsessed by the comfort and premium quality of the Calore mitts. The shell is 100 percent super supple full-grain leather that looks luxurious, feels even better, and smells great. Inside, a fleece liner with finger channels—like you’re wearing a glove, with mitten warmth—is stuffed with three different layers of Thermolite insulation.
4. Columbia Coreshot Jacket
I am a bit of a jacket snob, and I love my technical shells. They are brilliant for changeable conditions and ski touring, but overkill for resort riding when the weather is fine. However, I’ve been impressed by the Coreshot, which performed brilliantly, has loads of features, and costs less than my gloves did. Seams are fully taped, and the waterproof-breathable membrane didn’t let me down on a deep powder day.
5. The North Face Freedom Bibs
Aside from a few more logistics during bathroom breaks, I’m a huge fan of bib pants. The Freedom Bib from the North Face offers most resort riders everything they will need, without costing more than your Epic Pass. Made from seam-sealed DryVent two-layer recycled nylon and finished with a non-PFC DWR treatment, they’re waterproof, windproof, and fairly breathable.
Conclusion
Good ski clothes matter, and there’s plenty of great gear out there for every budget and age. Whether you’re a seasoned alpinist or a green trail aficionado, make sure you’re dressed for success on the slopes. Check out our other outdoor buying guides and reviews for more great gear recommendations.
FAQs
Q: What’s the most important thing to consider when choosing ski clothes?
A: The most important thing to consider when choosing ski clothes is the weather conditions you’ll be skiing in. Make sure you choose gear that’s waterproof, breathable, and suitable for the temperature.
Q: What’s the best type of insulation for ski clothes?
A: The best type of insulation for ski clothes is synthetic insulation, such as Primaloft or Thermolite. These types of insulation are lightweight, breathable, and provide excellent warmth.
Q: Can I wear ski clothes for other winter sports?
A: Yes, you can wear ski clothes for other winter sports, such as snowboarding, ice climbing, or snowshoeing. Just make sure you choose gear that’s suitable for the sport and the weather conditions.
