Stand out on the slopes with our top skiwear picks
Ski season is here and while we’re sure attention must be paid to perfecting your ski plough and finding the best spots for the freshest snow, it’s also important to invest in the right kit.
Like all physical activities, from running to yoga, what you wear can make all the difference. Good quality skiwear will last you for years to come, but it doesn’t come cheap, so it pays to do your research before your splurge.
We’ve picked out the top-performing skiwear on the market, which combines practicality with style, so you’ll look just as good as you sip on a well-deserved Aperol Spritz post-ski, as you do on the slopes.
What skiwear do I need?
It can be hard to know which pieces of skiwear to invest in when there’s an overwhelming amount of kit available on the market. To cut through the noise, we spoke to professional snowboarder Marion Hearty for her advice on what you actually need.
“First of all, you want to layer up to stay warm,” she advises. “Think thermal base layers, an insulating mid layer and a breathable but waterproof outer layer, for top and bottom. Then, depending on whether you ski or snowboard, you’ll need boots, skis/snowboard and poles if you ski.” If you aren’t planning on skiing a lot, you may prefer to rent or borrow some of your kit, particularly the skis, boots and poles.
“Safety is key, so always wear a helmet and wear goggles to protect your eyes. You can opt for a helmet with MIPS technology to reduce impact in case of a fall.” MIPS (or Multi-directional Impact Protection System) technology incorporates a low friction layer beneath the helmet to reduce rotation during impact.
“Sunglasses look great, but sunlight gets reflected on snow and still harms your eyes, so goggles are the better choice,” Hearty adds. “You also want to protect your hands from the cold, the snow and the sharp edges of skis and snowboards, so wear waterproof gloves or mittens. And if you tend to run cold, you can add some heated socks!”
What should you not wear while skiing?
“Stay away from cotton, as it will hold moisture close to your body and you’ll get cold very quickly,” warns Hearty. “Jeans are also an absolute no-go, as they will get wet and cold and make it difficult to move.”
What features should I look for in skiwear?
Waterproofing
Waterproof clothing is imperative for keeping you warm and dry during an activity that’s notoriously cold and wet. The fabric is usually coated in a moisture-repelling layer, to ensure it doesn’t enter your suit.
Breathability
Though you will feel the chill while you’re on the snowy slopes, when you’re using your body strength to stop yourself toppling over and plummeting into the snow, you can work up quite a sweat. That’s why it's important that your fabric is not only insulated, but breathable too. Some jackets have pockets at the armpits for an extra bit of airflow. Venting zips are another useful addition.
Wind-proofing
You want to look for windproof pieces that are designed to protect you from cold, blustery air. Opt for dual layers that provide insulation and temperature regulation.
Ankle gaiters
There aren’t many things worse than a soggy sock (not to be dramatic). You want your kit to keep the snow out as much as possible. So, it’s a good idea to look for trousers with gaiters at the ankles to cover your boots. They create a seal to stop the snow entering your boot, and ultimately, ruining your day.
Pockets
There isn’t much you need to take with you up a mountain, but it is important to keep your essentials (i.e. phone, keys and snack) safe on the slopes. This is why we’ve made sure the skiwear listed below all has a reasonable amount of both internal pockets for extra security, and external pockets for easy access.
Of course, we know you’ll also want to look good on the slopes, so we’ve also considered style in our picks.
Now you know what to look for (and what to avoid), this is the skiwear we’ll be packing for our next trip.
Best ski jackets
Sentinel Ski Jacket
Consider this high-quality, insulating ski jacket from Acr’teryx as a long-term investment. It’s made from GORE-TEX fabric, known for being waterproof, windproof, breathable, lightweight, and most importantly, durable, so it’s certainly made to last.
To get into the science of it, the fabric contains pores that are smaller than water droplets to make it waterproof, but larger than water vapour molecules, to keep things breathable so you don’t overheat. It also locks in warmth but keeps the cold out thanks to a slide n’ lock system.
These techy features come with a stylish finish. You’ll look professional no matter your level, even if you are reciting ‘pizza, chips’ as you make your way down the green slopes...
Recco Ski Jacket
Look chic, sophisticated and cinched in at the waist as you make your way down the slopes in this black, fluffy-hooded belted jacket from Mountain Warehouse.
Good looks aside, the fabric is treated with a durable water-repellent finish that’s both snow-proof and breathable. You can also purchase a matching pair of trousers, for the full ‘fit.
£124.99 at mountainwarehouse.com
Snowfall High Shine Cropped Ski Puffer
Channel your inner snow angel with this sophisticated, high-shine puffer from Sweaty Betty. It has two fleece-lined pockets, one chest pocket, and an easy-to-access lift pass pocket, so you don’t have to check every other one before finding it.
The high-shine fabric looks good, but it’s also water-resistant and heat protective, so it’s extremely practical, too. You can also treat yourself to some salopettes and a crew neck in the same dreamy salt-blue colour way.
Rainbow Stripe Ski Jacket
Bold, bright, and excellent quality? It must be Boden. This cosy, fleece-lined jacket will keep you warm and looking cool. The hood is completely helmet-compatible, and it also has thumb holes to keep your hands extra warm in your gloves.
Plus, it’s coated in BIO-FINISH technology, which makes it waterproof, and has tapered seams to keep the cold and wet out.
Go full rainbow with the matching pair of ski trousers, and a mini Boden version for your little one too.
Driftview Anorak
The North Face definitely knows a thing or two about creating outdoor apparel that lasts. This over-the-head anorak is a practical and smart bit of kit that you can zoom down the slopes in. The light-blue colourway means you’ll stand out against the snow, but there’s also a classic black version if you fancy a more 007 vibe.
The fabric is waterproof, windproof, and breathable to help you regulate your body temperature, and there’s a large outer pocket on the front for you to pop some energy gels or snacks in; the essentials.
Ladies Ski Jacket
Accommodation, equipment, ski passes, and the après ski Aperol Spritz budget can all add up to make skiing an expensive activity.
But this affordable yet practical jacket from Aldi will help to soften the blow, in more ways than one actually. Its padded insulation will keep you warm, and the Bionic-Finish® Eco material will help you stay dry.
Stance Women’s Shell Jacket
The 1980s called; they want their shell suit back. Well, it’s a no from us as this one belongs firmly on the slopes. The bright colours are perfect for both style and visibility. What’s more, there’s an integrated goggle wipe to clear your lenses.
There are three layers to keep you warm, each coated in a Pertex shield, which makes the jacket lightweight, waterproof and breathable. Even the zippers are waterproof, so there’s no need to worry about leakage. The inner pocket is waterproof, too, so you can look after your electricals.
Polar Flare Down Jacket
This flare-sleeved ski jacket is sure to turn heads while you fly down the slopes. Famed for its 80s-inspired silhouettes and star-emblem ski-wear, Perfect Moment Sports is the creme de la creme of cosy, technical and (perhaps most importantly, for some) stylish skiwear.
Our senior writer, Florence Reeves-White, has this jacket at home, and can attest to the brand's durability. “I only started skiing in my adult life, as my family were more sunny holiday seekers,” she says.
“I bought one of these second hand and it's basically the only thing that keeps me interested in going on ski trips – I may be the least proficient on the green runs (yeah, that bad), but I always win compliments for this cool coat.”
The best ski trousers
Snoga Ski Trousers
These trousers are fitted yet stretchy, so they won’t restrict your movement. The waistband looks great but it’s practical too, as it gives you more coverage and prevents any snow sneaking in.
They’re made from windproof WindWall fabric, which is designed to help release excess moisture and keep things at a comfortable temperature. In short, they’ll keep you toasty while being breathable. Win, win.
Power High Waist Sculpting Salopettes
Sculpting skiwear? Yes please. Like the matching jacket, and all the Sweaty Betty range to be honest, these trousers will guarantee you’re the most stylish on the ski scene.
Not only do they look the part, but they boast important technical features to keep you comfortable, including a super stretchy, water-resistant fabric. They’re also a part of the brand’s HeatProtect collection, which is designed to ensure you stay warm in snowy environments.
2-Later Ski Trousers in Storm Move
H&M recently launched its StormWear range, which combines style and practicality. Take these padded trousers, which are made from ThermoMove technology, designed to keep the balance between being warmth and breathability.
We’re also big fans of the chocolate brown colourway and were wondering if we could get away with wearing them off the slopes too.
Women’s Bellissimo 2 Ski Pants
Helly Hansen has dominated the slopes for years thanks to its innovative, high-quality ski clothes. These ski trousers boast a “feminine and fitted silhouette” according to the brand and are made with a two-way stretch softshell fabric.
They’re flattering and functional and come in eight colours, offering something for everyone. The lilac ones are certain to add some edge to the sledge.
Retro Belted Ski Suit
Instead of having to choose a separate ski jacket and trousers, opt for an all-in-one instead.
You’ll look like sunshine in a ski suit in this retro design from ASOS, which is padded for extra warmth and comes with a pair of matching gloves. It has you covered from your fingers to your toes.
Best mid-layers and thermals
Proton Hoody
This hoody is slightly thicker than your standard thermal and made from a proton material, which allows airflow through its mid layer insulation, while also being weather-resistant on the outside. It will keep you extra warm in cold conditions, making it a perfect option for laying underneath a shell jacket.
The eye-catching orange colourway will also look just as good on the streets as it will on the slopes.
Snowflake Funnel Neck Base Layer Top
Keep snug and sweat-free in this heat-regulating, snowflake-adorned top. It has a high neck to keep the wind out and long sleeves with thumb holes to protect your hands.
It’s also made with an anti-bacterial and sweat wicking material, so after all that traipsing up and down the slopes, you definitely won’t be a sweaty betty.
Pretty Little Thermal
This certainly is a pretty little thermal, which means you probably won’t want to cover it up (but please do).
It’s made from soft cotton and has added thumb holes for extra comfort. It will keep you cosy when you’re skiing and look great when you’re relaxing back at the chalet.
Jacquard Base Leggings and Top
This matching thermal set, complete with festive pattern and flattering fit, will make you want to ditch your ski trousers and jacket asap (again, please wait until after the skiing, though).
When on the slopes, they’ll keep you snug and cosy layered underneath your jacket. We love the knit-inspired set, but there’s also a gorgeous snow leopard design and more to choose from.
Thermal Silk Leggings
Whether you’re wearing them under your ski trousers in the Alps, or under your work trousers as you freeze through your commute to the office, a reliable pair of thermal leggings is a great investment.
These ones are made from silk, adding an additional layer of warmth and indulgent softness.
Women's Ski Package
If researching and reading about all the different bits of kit has become a bit too much, then you can save time and money with this ski package from Mountain Warehouse, which is currently under £100.
Here, you simply select your jacket, pants and accessories (which include a hat, scarf and gloves), and add to cart.
£99.99 at mountainwarehouse.com
Embroidered Funnel Neck Jumper with Wool
Okay, this isn't for skiing, but it's definitely here for the apres-ski. We love the skiing motifs on this Joules knit as well as the half-zip design. It will keep you cosy while you enjoy some fondue after a hard day of trying to stand up.
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