Master Your Layers for The Slopes

Layering your ski wear is extremely important, if you get it right you can ensure that you can spend your time on the slopes warm, dry and happy. But if your layering is off, you run the risk of either being too hot, too cold and even too sweaty and damp.

Your ski outfit should consist of three separate layers. Layer one is your base layer, then layer two is your mid layer and the final layer is your outerwear or outer layers. Each of these layers all have a different purpose and you need to make sure you choose the right piece of ski wear for each layer.

Base Layers

Your base layer is there to wick any sweat and moisture away from the skin. This helps to regulate your body temperature, keeps you feeling cool and comfortable and removes any risk of sweat rubbing or chaffing. Your base layers consist of three different items of clothing. Your base layer or thermal long sleeve top, base layer leggings/bottoms and a pair of good quality socks. You can buy separate base layer pieces, but most places (including us) sell them in packs. Ideally, a base layer should feel skin tight without feeling uncomfortable. Base layers are normally created using either synthetic fibres or natural Merino wool. Our Q-Wic/Q-Wic Plus fabrics are quick drying, is ergonomically fitting and even has built in odour control. When you're choosing your socks, avoid the temptation of doubling up to try and keep warm. You could end up with the socks bunching up and you could even risk blisters after a full day on the slope. So stick to one really good pair of socks. You'll want a pair that are long enough to come over your boots so you don't have any rubbing there either.

Mid Layers

Your mid layer is essentially a fleece-y piece of clothing. You don't need to wear anything extra on your bottom half as your legs end up staying warm doing all the work on the slopes. So your long sleeved mid layer is there to keep the heat trapped in, keeping you toasty warm. With mid layers, you got the choice of a pull over jumper style with no zip or a full zip fleece. Having one with a zip means you're able to adjust it easier when you're off the slopes.

Outerwear

If you're looking at ski outerwear or outer layers that aren't waterproof then don't bother! The main feature of your outerwear is that it needs to be completely waterproof to protect you from the elements. Your outer layers should consist of three main things, your ski jacket, ski trousers or salopettes and ski gloves.

When shopping for ski jacket, you want something that is breathable and comfortable to wear for hours. It's also important that your jacket has a number of pockets, both internal and external to protect your valuables. Most ski jackets now have a ski pass pocket which tend to be in the sleeve or the outer lining of the jacket, making it easier to tap in and out of the resort.

Other features to look for include a ski skirt, which is a zippable section at the bottom of the jacket that tends to have a grippy section which should stop any snow riding up your back. You might also look for articulated sleeves which help to provide unrestricted movement when you're cutting shapes on the slope. Some ski jackets have hoods as standard whereas others have detachable hoods with adjustable toggles, so it's worth checking depending on what your preference is. Taped seams not only help to prevent any rubbing on skin, they also add an extra layer of waterproofing.

You're looking for similar properties when looking for your ski trousers or salopettes. You want them to be waterproof, breathable, comfortable and form fitting. Many come with snow gaiters and zipped hems around the ankles to provide extra protection and stop any snow and powder coming up through the leg. If you're looking for extra support then the braces you get with salopettes will help with that. Most salopettes comes with detachable braces so you're able to wear them with or without, the choice is up to you!

Hopefully this blog has given you all the knowledge you need to be able to master your ski wear layers. It's as simple as a sweat/moisture wicking base layer, a warm mid layer and a waterproof outer layer. If you've got these three things boxed off, you should be sorted on the slopes!