Here's What to Wear Skiing and Snowboarding!

What to Wear Skiing and Snowboarding

I love skiing – in fact, I’m obsessed.

But one of the things that an ruin a day faster than anything else is wearing the wrong clothes.

Despite what some people may think, ski and snowboard clothes are not the same as what you’d wear on a normal winter day.

Especially if you run cold like I do!

So here’s my guide to what to waer on the slopes so you have the best, most comfortable time!

The Epic Pass for 2026/2027 is on sale now!

This year’s pass includes access to 90+ resorts across North America and Europe, plus 8 resorts in Japan. Get yours before the price increase!

Also, new for this year – Epic passholders save an extra 20% off when reserving rentals and get complimentary delivery.

What’s the Difference Between Skiing and Snowboarding Apparel?

First things first – there’s really no difference in what you should wear to ski vs snowboard.

Functionally.

Style wise, skiers and snowboarders often dress a bit differently ‘for the vibes’.

Stylish ski outfits tend to be a little more snug as its aerodynamically designed for racing and speed and snowboarders love a baggy ‘steezy’ fit.

But for your beginner skiier / snowboarder, ski clothes are effective snowboarding clothes and vice versa.

Read more: How to Plan the Perfect Ski Trip

What to Wear When Skiing

Here’s a handy checklist of what to wear when you are hitting the slopes!

I dive deeper into each below.

What to Look for in Skiing Gear

We will get to a specific packing list in a second, but here are some general tips that will help guide you to selecting the right gear for what to wear while skiing or snowboarding!

Windproof and Waterproof Protection

Even if you’re hitting the slopes on a dry day, remember that you are not (most likely!) an Olympic skier and falls may happen – and that’s okay!

The most important factor in your ski clothing is that it’s waterproof.

Waterproof protection will help you stay comfortable after any falls, and windproof protection will blunt the impact of any high-elevation gusts!

Breathability

Having apparel that’s breathable underscores the biggest difference between skiing and simply wandering around on a cold winter day because skiing is active!

You WILL be working up a sweat, so finding the clothing and fabrics that will trap heat when you need it but allow that same heat to escape when you are working up a sweat is super important!

Look for zippered vents on ski jackets and ski pants, so you can get in some air when needed.

Multiple Layers

It’s important to wear multiple layers when skiing, instead of just one or two of your thickest, warmest clothes.

Layering goes hand in hand with breathability, as the right layering system helps to trap warmth and manage the heat your body generates.

Also, temperature and weather conditions can vary significantly throughout the day.

Having multiple layers ensures that you can adapt your outfit to the changing weather patterns of the mountain on any given day!

Extremity Protection

In other words: hat, gloves, and socks.

And good ones. Even on a milder day, being outside for long stretches will impact your extremities first.

Making sure your hands, head, and feet are amply protected and insulated often makes the difference between a great day on the slopes or becoming frigid and miserable.

Base Layers

We’ve written about base layers before, but they are probably the most essential part of layering.

Base layers are the first line of defense against the cold, and the best base layers also feature highly breathable fabrics that allow excess heat to escape as you become more active!

You can get cheap heatTech from Uniqlo if you’re on a budget, or unsure if you’ll like skiing.

But I really recommend merino wool base layers. They’re made from natural materials, will last you years and will keep you much warmer than any synthetic fabric.

My favorite base layers are from this Norwegian ski brand.

They come in all sorts of cute, cozy ski patterns and have different styles to suit everywhere (round neck, zip up, capri length, full length, etc).

Browse base layers: Free People, Kari Traa, Zappos, Amazon, Backcountry & REI

Fleece or Wool Mid-Layer

The mid-layer is where it gets a bit more customizable.

Some people like knit sweaters, others go with a cozy fleece.

Nowadays even thin synthetic jackets are also popular. Vests are great too, as they can easily be added on or shed, and they provide warmth without bulk.

Try to pay attention to fabric choice. The two most common mid layer fabrics are fleece and wool.

In my opinion fleece is a bit more comfortable than wool, but wool has two very germane advantages over fleece – better breathability and naturally anti-microbial properties.

I usually wear this thin shell jacket from Arc’teryx as my mid layer. It’s a little pricey, but I’ve worn it for 5 ski seasons now and it’s just starting to wear a little at the cuffs.

The best part about it is how thin it is – making it super packable when you’re flying carry-on only.

It’s got down insulation and excellent wind protection and it’s thin enough to wear under knit sweaters as an extra windproof layer.

Browse mid-layers: Zappos, Amazon, Backcountry & REI

Ski Pants

Your ski pants will take the brunt of any falls, so definitely make sure they have a sleek waterproof fabric.

Fun fact: every fabric that’s waterproof is also windproof, but the reverse is not always true!

If you’re in-between sizes, opt for a looser fit.

You want your ski pants to comfortably fit over any base layers as well as the top of your ski boots, so consider sizing up one size!

For some reason, ski pants tend to be quite expensive with the most unflattering fits. I have a whole review series on all the ski pants I’ve tried which you can read here.

Browse ski pants: Zappos, Amazon, Backcountry & REI

Ski Jacket

Easily the most expensive part of the what to wear when skiing packing list, I would recommend trying to find a ski jacket that can also work well in your everyday life too.

Windproof and waterproof protection are musts, and also look for ski jackets with drawstrings around the waist that prevent snow from flying up your shirt!

When I first learned to ski, I bought this inexpensive jacket off of Amazon. It’s pretty cute (I used to get tons of questions asking where it was from, has tons of pockets and very affordable. It lasted me many ski seasons!

For something a little sleeker and more fashionable, but still in the affordable / mid-range, check out Obermeyer.

For higher-end, fashionable and functional ski jackets, check out Cordova and Fulsalp.

Browse ski jackets: Zappos, Amazon, Backcountry & REI

Helmet

It’s a wonder that more ski slopes don’t require helmets (some definitely do, but not all), when riding your bike without a helmet is tantamount to committing high crimes and misdemeanors.

Skiing and snowboarding is fun, but it comes with its obvious risks.

Protect your head with a helmet, and just make sure you get one that can fit over your hat!

If you’re Asian, check out Smith – they make helmets designed to fit a little better on Asian heads.

Browse ski helmets: Zappos, Amazon, Backcountry & REI

Ski Gloves

Like the other items mentioned before, wind and waterproof protection is mandatory to ensure you have comfort throughout your time on the mountain.

And, just like with ski socks, make sure you get a pair of gloves that has a snug but not circulation-restraining fit! Mittens will be warmer than gloves.

My favorite are Hestras – these are incredibly warm. They’re a little pricey, but made from super soft leather and will last a long time. I wrote a review of my Hestra gloves here.

Browse ski gloves: Zappos, Amazon, Backcountry & REI

Ski Goggles

I remember one of my most miserable days skiing was when I decided to forgo goggles.

The lightest of snows started just a few minutes later, and when you’re skiing down a hill at high speed, even the most whimsical flurries hit your face like bullets.

Plus, fresh snow can be blindingly white, so protect your eyes and wear reflective ski googles!

Ski goggles are the one piece of equipment most ski resorts won’t rent. I think they consider it unsanitary?

So you definitely want to buy your own ahead of time, because the ski goggles they sell on the slope shope (or even in town) will be very expensive.

Again here I recommend Smith if you’re Asian – they make a specific more low-profile shape designed to better fit on low nose bridges.

Browse ski goggles: Zappos, Amazon, Backcountry & REI

Balaclava or Neck Gaiter

If you are unfamiliar with the word “balaclava“, I can guarantee you still know what they look like.

“balaclava” is what you call the mask someone wears to rob a bank when, rather than robbing a bank, they are actually just skiing instead.

All jokes aside, balaclavas offer maximum face coverage for the coldest of days on the hill!

Alternatively, a neck gaiter is another great option.

They look a bit like thin infinity scarves, and are designed as fabric to be worn around the neck to ward off any chill or exposure between your collar and chin.

I’ve written review on gaiters from my two favorite brands, Smartwool and Turtle Fur.

Browse balaclavas and gaiters: Zappos, Amazon, Backcountry & REI

Ski Socks

Ski socks are more important than you think!

Since you’re controlling the skis with your feet and boots, well-fitting ski socks make a big difference.

When I was starting out, I wore thick but regular winter socks that I already had and they did not cut it.

In fact, I developed tons of blisters and even black toenails before I realized poor fitting socks and boots were the cause.

You’ll want to wear long merino wool socks designed for skiing.

Merino wool is anti-microbial and wicks away moisture, preventing sweaty feat. Tall socks that go up to nearly your knees will protect your shins from the hard plastic of the boots.

And the socks should be thick enough to be warm but thin enough that they don’t cut off circulation (which actually makes your feet colder).

Ski specific socks have extra padding in the areas along your foot and calf that rub against the boot, so they’re more comfortable to wear!

Smartwool makes my favorite socks.

I have tons of their cozy wool winter socks and I love their ski socks. They always come in tons of different padding options, various heights and fun prints.

Browse ski socks: Smartwool,Zappos, Amazon, Backcountry & REI

For a cheaper alternative, I also like CEP’s ski socks.

They make compression socks and sports apparel designed to help improve performance, prevent injury and speed up recovery.

I have a couple pairs of their compresive merino wool ski socks, ranging in thicknesses, and they keep my feet warm on a full day on the slopes, while still allowing blood flow and circulation.

They also fit really well!

There’s no extra fabric bunching around the toes or heel, and they’re quite compressive.

My personal favorite is their ultralight compression socks – they feel like nothing on the foot and they’re easily packable!

Browse CEP ski socks

Snow Boots

After you’re done on the mountains, you’ll want to get out of those constricting ski boots and into some comfier snow boots.

From moon boots to Sorels, there’s a comfortable pair of waterproof snow boots (and in all price ranges) to suit everyone!

Look for a thick sole with great traction and go up a size so you can still wear your thicker ski socks.

I got these simple Sorel boots ages ago and they’ve been perfect year after year. Fur lined, super comfy and with a thick treaded sole for great traction on ice.

You may also want to bring a pair of cozy warm slippers to wear when lounging around the cabin or ski hotel.

Browse snow boots: Zappos, Amazon, Backcountry & REI

A Few Final Tips

Before you pack up, here are a few final tips when preparing to go skiing or snowboarding!

Rent or Buy?

Typically, ski lodges will rent skis, snowboards, poles, boots and helmets.

Of these, the only thing I would consider buying right away are helmets – they are relatively inexpensive and also touch your face (sanitation in the age of coronavirus!).

I’d also recommend buying goggles as most mountains won’t rent these for sanitary reasons.

Everything else we feature on our packing list are going to be things you will have to buy…

Prices Can Seem High

…which probably leads you to the natural question how much am I going to have spend on everything?

Well, to cut to the point, skiing and snowboarding isn’t cheap.

Prices can seem high, even higher than what you think normal winter weather wardrobe items should cost.

Don’t be thrown off by this entirely, as most ski gear reflects the latest (read: most expensive) in weatherproof technology!

The Epic Pass for 2026/2027 is on sale now!

This year’s pass includes access to 90+ resorts across North America and Europe, plus 8 resorts in Japan. Get yours before the price increase!

Also, new for this year – Epic passholders save an extra 20% off when reserving rentals and get complimentary delivery.

Don’t Be Afraid to Buy the Same Brands as Everyone Else

While we all want to look good no matter what, the reality is that slopes are not exactly a catwalk.

The point?

Don’t be afraid to buy the same, popular brands you see everyone else wearing.

Manufacturing skiing and snowboarding gear is often a highly specialized affair, so there’s a pretty good reason you will likely see the same brands over and over again!

Opt for Bright, Unique Colors

Where you can make a fashion statement, however, is by purchasing products in bright and unique colors.

Aside from making yourself stand out, this has the added, practical benefit of making it less likely that you will lose or misplace your gear around the lodge!

And, if you can, avoid an all-white outfit on the slopes.

While it might look chic for a picture, it can make it difficult for other skiiers and snowboarders (especially inexperienced ones) to see you against the white snow.

There’s nothing worse than getting into an accident on the mountain!

Shop Skiing and Snowboarding Gear

Read More: in our ski style series:

Ski Trip Packing Essentials

What to Wear Skiing: Packing List Must Have's

The Best Ski Pants for Women (Stylish & Functional)

The Best Men's Ski Pants

I Found the CUTEST Women's Ski Pants (Video)

Are Designer Ski Pants Worth It? (Try-On Haul)

The Best Ski Sweaters for Apres-Ski

Planning the Perfect Ski Trip

What to Know Before Skiing in Vermont for the First Time

The Best Women's Ski Camps

The Best Immersive Adult Ski Camps (Get Better Fast!)

Ski Trip Recaps + Mountain Guides

Europe: Kitzbuhel Austria

Lake Tahoe, California: Heavenly, Kirkwood & Northstar

Montana: Big Sky

Vermont: Stowe

Catskills, New York: Belleayre Mountain

Quebec, Canada: Mont Tremblant

+ More Ski Vlogs on Youtube

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2 Comments

Louisa
January 6, 2021 / 12:49 pm

I would make a recommendation to swap the balaclava for a neck gaiter. It can be used as a face covering, now that face coverings or masks are required during the pandemic. I would also recommend an optional vest for skiing — fleece, wool, or down. It allows for a bit of fine tuning, providing warmth without bulk. Thanks!

- Sher
  Author
  January 6, 2021 / 2:13 pm
  
  Hey Louisa – great advice! thanks for the recommendations, you’re right a neck gaiter sounds more functional!

Here’s What to Wear Skiing and Snowboarding!