What to Wear Skiing: A Complete Guide to Staying Warm, Dry, and Comfortable

The Short Answer: When deciding what to wear skiing, focus on wearing layers that help you stay warm, dry, and able to move easily. Start with a baselayer, add insulating layers, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer designed for cold weather.

Skiing is more enjoyable when you are dressed for the temperature, snow, and wind you may face on the mountain. Clothing choices affect how comfortable you feel, how warm you stay, and how long you can remain on the slopes. The right ski clothing keeps body heat in while letting excess moisture out as you ski. Whether this is your first time skiing or you are returning to the mountain after a few seasons off, building your outfit layer-by-layer is the most dependable approach.

How Ski Clothing Works: Warmth, Breathability, and Layering

The body warms itself naturally through movement. Ski clothing is designed to hold warmth close to your skin while letting sweat escape. This balance keeps you dry, prevents chills, and allows your temperature to stay steady during runs, chairlift rides, and time spent on the mountain.

If moisture stays trapped, you will feel colder faster. If air flows too freely, you can lose heat quickly. Layering helps you fine-tune how much heat your clothing holds

Each layer works with the others to manage your comfort level as your body temperature changes throughout the day.

Baselayers: The Foundation of Warmth

A baselayer is your first line of defense against cold temperatures. It should wick moisture so sweat does not stay against your skin.

What to Look For

• Form-fitting but not too tight
• Merino wool for warmth and comfort
• Synthetic material for strong moisture wicking
• Long underwear bottoms and a fitted long sleeve top

Avoid

• Cotton. Cotton holds moisture and may lead to chills.

If you run warm, choose a lighter baselayer. If you tend to get cold, a slightly heavier weight baselayer can help maintain warmth.

Mid Layers: Your Warm Layer

The mid layer helps you hold body heat. This layer is easy to adjust depending on your weather condition and personal preference.

Mid Layer Options

• Fleece pullover for warmth without bulk
• Down or synthetic insulated jacket for colder days
• Stretch fleece or wool sweater for balanced warmth and movement

If you are skiing during a cold morning, consider wearing a thicker mid layer. When the sun comes out and you warm up, you can remove it and store it in a backpack or locker.

Outer Layers: Protection Against Wind and Snow

Your outer layers include:

• Insulated Ski Jacket
• Ski/Snow Pants

These layers keep snow out and help maintain a comfortable temperature.

Ski Jacket Features to Look For

• Waterproof fabric rating listed on the label
• Breathable construction
• Zipper vents to release heat
• Adjustable cuffs and hood

Ski Pants or Snow Pants

• Reinforced cuffs to protect against ski edges
• High waist or snow gaiters to prevent snow from getting in
• Room to move comfortably without feeling baggy

A good outer layer makes skiing more comfortable across changing temperatures, especially on windy chairlift rides.

Accessories That Make a Difference

Ski Gloves or Mittens

Hands are sensitive to cold. Ski gloves or mittens help maintain warm hands and should:

• Be waterproof
• Offer insulation
• Fit over or under jacket sleeves depending on preference

Mittens are often warmer than gloves but reduce finger dexterity. Many skiers switch between the two based on temperature.

Ski Socks

A thinner sock designed specifically for skiing helps prevent cold feet in a ski boot. Ski socks also:

• Wick moisture
• Support movement
• Prevent pressure points

Ski Helmet

A ski helmet adds extra protection and warmth. Most ski resorts require or strongly recommend them.

Ski Goggles

Goggles protect your eyes from wind, snow, and glare. Choose lens tints based on lighting:

• Light tints for overcast days
• Dark tints for sunny days

Neck Gaiter or Face Mask

A neck gaiter shields your nose, chin, and ears from cold air. A face mask is helpful on windy or extra cold days.

Adjusting Your Ski Outfit for Different Conditions

Cross Country Skiing

Cross country skiing involves continuous movement, so clothing should be lighter and more breathable than downhill ski gear. Choose a lighter mid layer, a soft shell jacket instead of a thick insulated one, and avoid heavy insulation that traps too much heat. You’ll still need a moisture-wicking baselayer, a wind-blocking jacket, and warm accessories like gloves, a gaiter, and a hat.

Spring Skiing

Milder temperatures and softer snow call for lighter gear. Opt for thin mid layers and a shell jacket without heavy insulation. Switch to lighter gloves when it’s warm, and wear sunglasses instead of goggles on sunny days. Always bring an extra layer for early mornings or sudden weather changes.

Regional Weather Tips

Skiers on the East Coast often face colder air, firmer snow, and windy lifts, making warm mid layers and insulated jackets ideal. In the West and Rocky Mountains, where weather shifts quickly, choose layers you can add or remove throughout the day.

Off the Slopes

Around the resort, comfort is key. Wear snow boots with traction, insulated leggings or pants, and a lightweight jacket for walking indoors and outdoors. Dry boots and gloves overnight to keep them ready for the next day.

Layer Adjustments During the Day

Your temperature naturally changes throughout your ski session.

• Add layers if you feel chilled on lifts, have cold hands or feet, or notice tense muscles.
• Remove layers if you start sweating, feel too warm on runs, or fog your goggles.
  Keep a mid layer in your backpack or locker so you can make quick adjustments when conditions shift.

Getting Ready for Your Next Ski Day 

Learning what to wear skiing is about combining layers that work together to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable throughout your day on the slopes. Start with a baselayer that wicks moisture, add a warm mid layer, and top it with a jacket and pants that keep snow and wind out. Gloves, socks, goggles, and a helmet complete your setup and help protect your body from cold air and snow. Once you understand how layering works, it becomes simpler to adjust your clothing for changes in weather, activity level, and personal preference.

If you want help choosing ski clothing, Peter Glenn carries ski jackets, ski pants, gloves, goggles, helmets, and more from trusted brands like Descente, Spyder, Obermeyer, The North Face and Bogner. Their staff has helped skiers gear up for over 65 years and can help you pick clothing that supports the way you like to ski.

Shop the best winter gear at Peter Glenn and get ready for your next trip to the mountain.