Photo: Innsbruck, Austria
Whether a complete rookie on the slopes or a yearly attendee, it’s always best to double check you have packed all the essential ski items to make this year’s trip the best one yet! Once your kit is ticked off, all that awaits is making memories and having fun.
This blog will cover all ski holiday essentials…
When choosing your warm Ski Jacket, look out for features which can enhance your enjoyment, comfort and safety on the slopes. For example, accessible, zipped pockets are a necessity in order to keep your valuables safe whilst on the slopes all day. Consider the climate at your resort when choosing the warmth and waterproof rating of your jacket. Snow proof means your jacket is water resistant, making it perfect to keep you warm and dry when on sunny runs – protecting you from the odd tumble onto snow. However, if the forecast is looking like rain may be frequent during your visit, a waterproof jacket is preferable to ensure you are kept comfortable and dry. Other key features include adjustable hoods, Recco technology and snow skirts.
When selecting the perfect salopettes, it is important to think about your skiing ability. For example, Softshell Ski Pants are perfect for confident ski/snowboarders as it allows a lot of flexibility when moving fast down the slopes. However, if you are a amateur or relaxed skier then the main features you need to look for are the waterproof rating, snow gaiters (to stop snow from entering your snow pants) and zipped pockets. Just like choosing a ski jacket, the style and colour can be a key factor – especially if you intend on taking some great shots at the top of the pistes or during at après-ski.
Dressing smart through layering is vital to stay warm and the best way to achieve do so on the slopes is through base layers, as they can be added or removed depending on the conditions. The main function of base layers are that they regulate your body temperature and wick away moisture from the skin. When selecting your base layers, one of the most premium materials to look out for is merino wool. Not only is this fabric naturally anti-bacterial so you stay fresher for longer, it is also lightweight and breathable – therefore giving a weightless feeling.
The compacted snow around the ski resort can be a challenge for even the sturdiest of shoes. A pair of snow boots will offer excellent grip with the added bonus of keeping your feet warm. When assessing the right snow boots for you, the main design points to be aware of are; deep lugs in the soles of the boots meaning they have an excellent grip, a thinsulate lining which adds warmth without bulk in the inner part of the boot, and a waterproof lower half of the boot in order to protect the soles and your feet from becoming damp when walking on wet terrain. You can also find some snow boots in a ‘chalet chic’ design, making them perfect to pop back on when off the slopes to enjoy your cheese fondue in.
When travelling to your ski resort, you can come across uneven flooring when you are amongst rural mountains, so a suitcase isn’t always the most practical mode to transport your luggage. We would recommend packing your belongings in a rucksack as this gives you much more ease when travelling to and from the airport. Rucksacks such as the below Ultra series are perfect when you also need a daypack as it essentially acts as a 2-in-1. You can zip the daypack onto the larger rucksack when travelling to your resort and then detach for a smaller back to take with you during your day trips.
Accessories are the perfect way to complete any outfit and ski accessories are more than just stylish….
Your hands are notoriously hard to warm up once the cold has reached them, so choosing the right ski gloves is vital. Opting for waterproof and insulated gloves will keep your fingers dry and warm allowing you to hold your ski poles without any discomfort.
Ski socks will provide you with more warmth and protection than regular socks, with their longer length and extra cushioning on the toe to protect you from ski boot pressure.
Ski helmets are compulsory at most ski resorts now as they offer extra protection for skiers. Although you can rent from most ski locations, it is sometimes cheaper to buy your own helmet rather than having to rent one each time you are heading on the pistes.
Weather conditions at the top of the slopes can be much more heightened then when you are at the bottom, and this includes sun rays. When at higher altitudes, UV rays are much stronger meaning sun and snow glare can be problematic. Ski goggles are the perfect option as they are more secure than sunglasses, so won’t fly off on the way down and will also help protect your eyes from the wind when descending the pistes.
Now you are all set for the perfect kit on the slopes! Be sure to tag us in all your Mountain Warehouse ski photos as we love to see them.
