Layering Advice: A Simple Yet Effective Guide to Layering for Winter Sports

Step #1: Finding a Good Base Layer...

The base layer is one of the most essential pieces of clothing when it comes to layering for the harsh conditions that are often found when skiing and snowboarding. It essentially manages your body's moisture and regulates your body temperature. It prevents excessive sweat buildup in order to keep you warm and dry while you're on the slopes.

It is important to understand what a base layer is and what it looks like; otherwise, you'll likely choose incorrect clothing to wear under your snow jacket and snow pants. This can lead to a very uncomfortable experience when you're skiing or snowboarding. You will likely become extremely cold and very wet and have poorly regulated body temperatures, creating potential safety hazards for yourself.

You may be asking, where can I find this essential piece of clothing, and how much is it? Base layers can typically be found online or in stores that specialize in outdoor or skiing apparel. So stores such as REI, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Patagonia are just a few examples. However, you can also find these types of clothes in your own local outdoor stores and even in many department stores in person or online.

Prices vary greatly, with some base layers going for as little as $10 while more premium options can go for as much as $200+. However, most mid-range base layers typically only cost about $40 to $50. It's kind of a case of you get what you pay for, with cheap base layers being less effective than the more premium options; the difference in effectiveness is often quite noticeable. However, since we prioritize affordability at Alpine Adventure Co., we recommend mid-range options that offer good performance without being too expensive for someone new to the sport.

Step #2: The Mid-Layer...

This layer of clothing is also important, although its necessity varies depending on the weather and temperature. On certain days when it's warmer, a lighter, less insulating mid-layer is recommended. While on snowier, colder days, a heavier mid-layer is optimal. Choosing the wrong mid-layer can make you either too hot or too cold, depending on the circumstances.

Mid-layers consist of multiple different types of material. Fleece is a common type of mid-layer and is typically used as a lighter, more breathable mid-layer on warmer days. This ensures that you aren't overheating while skiing or snowboarding. However, during colder temperatures, heavier down coats and puffers are recommended as they will be more effective at insulating your body and keeping you dry when it's snowing.

Mid-layers can be quite a bit more pricey than base layers; however, there are still some affordable options that can work well for you. The Mid-weight Base Layer Half-Zip Top from REI is a great, affordable fleece option, while the Gilliam Jacket from Carhartt is a good, relatively affordable warmer puffer option. These are just a couple of examples of some mid-layer options; however, you can use these examples as a reference to shop for other options if you wish. Overall, the mid-layer is an important yet circumstantial layer of clothing in winter sports.

Step #3: Shell and Snow Pants...

The shell and snow pants are the final layer of the main articles of clothing that you'll need for the slopes. This consists of heavy waterproof and insulated jackets and snow pants, which are also waterproof and insulated. When looking for snow jackets, refer to this blog we posted. For snow pants, look for pants with a higher mm (millimeter) rating. The higher the rating, the more waterproof it is. With 5,000-10,000 mm being optimal for light snow and relatively fair but wet conditions, and 15,000-20,000 mm being good for heavier snow and very stormy, wet conditions.

Arctix, Columbia, and REI all sell quality but affordable snow pants that are perfect for beginners. These brands offer great snow pants at prices of around $40 to $70, which are fairly priced compared to other snow pants of similar caliber. You can also potentially find some affordable snow pants on clearance at your local outdoors or department store. So pay attention to seasonal sales, you can find some premium options for great prices.

Step 4: Skiing and Snowboarding Accessories...

We have covered all the main articles of clothing and layers you'll need for your day skiing or snowboarding, but there are a few more things to purchase before you're all set. These accessories offer enhanced comfort and warmth while you're out skiing and are just as essential. These accessories are goggles, masks, gloves, and ski socks. There are more accessories to consider; however, these are the basics.

For goggles, you truly don't need to go all out and buy an overly expensive pair of goggles when you're starting out. Brands and stores like Wildhorn Outfitters offer goggles such as the Cristo V2 Ski Goggles for around $50, and so does Columbia with their Whirlbird goggles for about $75 dollars. Masks can be just as important depending on conditions, and very affordable options can be found in online stores such as Amazon for as low as $10 or less. However, a mask is not always recommended on warmer days where there are no snowy conditions.

The same can be said for gloves and mittens; they can be found in popular online stores for very low prices. Just ensure reviews for the gloves are good before purchasing. Finally, one of the most important accessories, especially for skiers (as well as snowboarders too) are ski socks. Brands such as The North Face and Columbia sell ski socks for around $25 dollars that are quality yet decently priced, as you'll likely only need a pair or two when starting. These socks are great for moisture control and overall comfort in the ski boot, and are one of the most essential accessories when beginning your skiing or snowboarding adventures.