When getting ready to hit the slopes, one of the most important things is wearing properly layered clothing that will keep you warm and comfortable in the conditions.
With ski clothing online available from numerous online specialty retailers, it can be tricky to know exactly what to wear and how to layer it.
This article will provide a breakdown of the optimal layering system based on the temperature and how active you’ll be.
First, we’ll overview the main principles of layering ski outfits. Then we’ll get specific on what to wear in freezing, cold, cool, and warm weather. We’ll also discuss how your activity intensity factors in.
Main Layering Principles
Layering effectively is vital for comfort and safety while skiing or snowboarding. The main concepts are:
- Wear loose, breathable layers that don’t restrict movement
- Use moisture-wicking synthetic or wool materials
- Have different insulation levels for warmth
- Allow versatile adding and removing of layers
Following these principles, the typical layering system is:
- Base layer: Wicks moisture and retains heat
- Insulation layer: Adds warmth while allowing ventilation
- Shell layer: Wind and water protection
Getting the right balance of these layers based on conditions is key. Now let’s explore how that plays out in real temperature ranges.
Layering Guidelines by Temperature
Frigid Temperatures (-15°F/-26°C and Below)
When temperatures plummet below -15°F, you need serious insulation to stay warm and prevent hypothermia or frostbite.
However, overdressing can cause excessive sweating which ultimately leaves you colder. Here are the recommended layers:
Base: Synthetic long underwear and undershirts, wool ski socks
Insulation: Fleece layer, down or synthetic puffy jacket
Shell: Waterproof, windproof ski jacket and bibs/pants
Since you’ll likely be quite inactive waiting in lift lines in extreme cold, the fleece layer provides vital additional insulation without getting overly sweaty. The down or synthetic puffy jacket locks in heat extremely well.
And waterproof, windproof outer layers prevent the cold and wind from sapping all your warmth.
Cold Temperatures (-15° to 32°F /-26° to 0°C)
Once the mercury gets into the negative teens, you can shed some insulation:
Base: Synthetic long underwear and undershirts, wool socks
Insulation: Fleece jacket
Shell: Insulated, water-resistant ski jacket and pants
The fleece mid layer and an insulated jacket with 10-20k waterproof rating will keep your core warm while allowing sweat to escape. Wind and water resisting shell gear blocks elements. For pants, waterproof ski bibs or pants layered over long underwear provide lower body protection.
Cool Temperatures (32° to 50°F/0° to 10°C)
As temperatures rise to around freezing and into the forties, you can get by with fewer insulation layers:
Base Layer: Synthetic or merino wool long sleeve shirt and pants, medium weight socks
Insulation: Fleece vest or pullover
Shell: Breathable ski jacket and pants with light insulation
A single base layer paired with an uninsulated softshell jacket provides plenty of warmth while allowing sweat to evaporate.
For bottoms, softshell pants or weatherproof jeans work well.
Warm Temperatures (50°F + / 10°C+)
Once temps hit fifty degrees, you can ski quite comfortably with minimal layering:
Base Layer: Synthetic tee shirt and knee-length shorts or yoga pants
Insulation: None needed
Shell: Lightweight, breathable ski jacket
This setup allows for maximum movement and ventilation. Apply sunscreen or wear a base layer with UVP protection since you’ll be more exposed.
While the temperatures form the foundation, it’s vital to adapt your layers based on sun exposure and aerobic activity as well.
Adapting Layers for Sun and Aerobic Activity
Two other factors that dictate ideal layering are sun exposure and exertion level.
If skiing in direct sun—even when it’s quite cold out—you’ll likely overheat with too much insulation.
For aerobic activities like racing down slopes or trail skiing, you also heat up rapidly.
Here’s how to tweak your layers based on the sun and activity:
Full sun: Drop the mid insulation layer
High aerobic activity: Use lightly insulated shell jacket, wear unzipped pit zips for ventilation
Stopping frequently: Add insulation layers back
Descending: Open pit zips fully to avoid overheating
Pay attention to your real-time body temperature and shed or add layers so you don’t get too sweaty or chilled.
Key Takeaways
Layering properly for the conditions makes all the difference in comfort and enjoyment out on the slopes. Follow these core principles:
Check the temperature: Use the guide to pick base, insulation, and shell layers
Watch the sun: Remove insulation layers with full sun exposure
Mind aerobic activity: Ventilate and shed layers when heating up from exertion
Adjust in real-time: React to how your body feels by adding or dropping layers
Using this adaptive layering approach, you’ll stay cozy and dry no matter how cold it gets. Need any of the ski apparel covered?Find a wide selection of quality pieces with the best ski clothing online retailers.
