How to Layer for Skiing: 3 Easy Steps for Staying Warm on the Slopes
When going on a ski trip, you need to know how to layer ski clothing to stay warm and comfortable on the slopes. Layering is essential for skiing because it helps regulate your body temperature and keep you dry in different conditions.
I have been skiing since I was six, so I have several decades of experience dressing for winter sports. I have skied in many climates, from a warm spring French Alps trip to a chilly Whistler blizzard.
I have skied in a small, and low, resort in France called Bernex in warm weather (above 5 celsius) and in bone-chilling temperatures (below 15 celsius) at Blue Mountain ski resort in Ontario, Canada.
Therefore, I know how to layer for skiing to keep warm, dry, and comfortable.
The best way to layer for skiing usually involves three main layers: a base layer, a mid-layer, and an outer layer.
The base layer is the first layer of clothing you wear and is in direct contact with your skin. Its purpose is to wick away sweat and moisture from your skin to keep you dry and warm.
The mid-layer provides insulation and helps trap heat close to your body. The outer layer aims to protect you from wind, rain, and snow.
In this article, I will go through the best practices for layering clothes for skiing and provide some recommendations on the best clothing for your next skiing adventure.
Why Layering is Important for Skiing?
Skiing is a physically demanding sport requiring a lot of energy and movement.
As you ski, your body temperature rises, and you will sweat. If you are not wearing suitable clothing, you will quickly become uncomfortable, and your performance will suffer.
This is where layering comes in.
The layering system aims to keep you at the right temperature, avoid getting wet, and remain comfortable while skiing. Each layer serves a specific purpose and works together to regulate your body temperature.
Layering allows you to adjust your clothing to your activity level and the weather conditions. If you start to get too warm, you can remove a layer. If it starts to snow or rain, you can add a layer for extra protection.
To get a visual guide of layering , you can visit Arc’teryx’s layering guide.
Spotlight: Solden Ski Resort in Austria
How Many Layers to Wear Skiing?
The number of layers to wear skiing depends on the weather conditions, personal preference, and the type of skiing activity. However, a common guideline is to dress in three layers.
Here is the 3-layer system.
- Base Layer:
• A moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from the skin and maintain dryness. This layer is essential for regulating body temperature. - Mid Layer:
• An insulating layer to retain body heat. This can be a fleece or down jacket, providing warmth in colder temperatures. - Outer Layer:
• A waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect against snow, wind, and moisture. This layer is crucial for staying dry and comfortable in various weather conditions.
Base Layer
The base layer is the clothing closest to your skin and is the first defence against the cold.
You need to have proper base layers for your top and bottom. Look for thermal leggings or long johns made from materials like merino wool or polyester, which offer excellent moisture-wicking properties and insulation to keep you warm and dry on the slopes.
When selecting a base layer, consider the following:
- Material: Merino wool is an excellent base layer material because it is warm and wicks away sweat. Moisture-wicking synthetics such as nylon and polyester are also effective at keeping moisture away from your skin.
- Fit: A base layer should fit snugly against your skin without being too tight. This allows for maximum warmth and moisture-wicking capabilities. If it is too loose, it will not keep you warm.
- Thickness: Base layers can come in varying thicknesses, from lightweight to heavyweight. Choose a thickness based on the temperature and your personal preferences.
Sometimes I will wear two types of base layers when it is going to be extra cold, such as a thermal longsleeve and a quarter zip thermal. However, when I was skiing in Solden, Austria in March I was too hot, so I just wore the one base layer.
What are the Best Base Layers for Skiing?
UNIQLO HEATTECH Ultra Warm Crew Neck Long Sleeve
I recently bought this thermal long sleeve and it was an excellent price, warm (as promised) and extremely soft. I also wear this day-to-day on cold days.
CRAFT Active Extreme Crew Neck Long Sleeve
My partner has had a craft base layer for decades and raved about it. So this year I finally gave in a got one. It is very fitted. I love the higher neck because cold cannot get in through the neckline.
Mountain Warehouse IsoTherm wool thermal
I bought the IsoTherm top and bottom several years ago to battle the cold Canadian winters and they have been trustworthy and warm. They have a great price-to-quality ratio.
- Icebreaker Merino wool thermals – look at their warmth rating from 125 to 400.
- Lululemon training long-sleeve shirts (Swiftly tech) – they are made of nylon and polyester, so they are sweat-resistant. Good for warmer days or if you sweat a lot while skiing or snowboarding. I used mine all the time for non-ski activities, such as hiking or snow-shoeing.
Spotlight: Whistler Ski Resort in Canada
Mid Layer
The mid layer is an essential part of your ski outfit because it needs to keep you warm by providing insulation.
The mid-layer is the insulating layer that helps retain heat. It should be warm, lightweight, and breathable. Fleece and wool are good options for this layer.
Here are some recommended items for your second layer of ski clothing:
- Fleece jacket: A fleece jacket is a popular choice for a mid-layer. Fleece is a great insulator and will keep you warm even when wet. It is also breathable, meaning moisture can escape, keeping you dry and comfortable.
- Wool sweater: A wool sweater is another excellent option for a mid-layer. Wool is a natural insulator and will keep you warm even when wet. It is also breathable and will wick moisture away from your body.
A down jacket is another great choice for freezing days. It is incredibly warm and lightweight, making it easy to move in. However, down jackets are not as breathable as fleece or wool, so avoid wearing this type of coat on a warm day.
Down coats do not have water resistance features, so you need a shell over top as your outer layer.
Synthetic insulated jackets are also thought to be the best mid layer for skiing because they offer warmth without bulk, maintain insulation when wet, and are more affordable than down options. Additionally, their compactness makes them easy to fold up into a suitcase or backpack.
Some versions of synthetic coats are not as warm as down coats, so this is a better option for warmer days.
When choosing mid layers, consider the temperature and weather conditions you will be skiing in. If it is going to be very cold, a warmer down jacket may be necessary. If the temperature is mild, a thinner mid-layer, such as a fleece may be sufficient.
Choose a mid-layer that is easy to layer with your base and outer layers. Look for a mid-layer that is not too bulky and fits well under your outer layer.
Hoodies and cotton materials are not suitable for mid-layers due to their lack of technical features and moisture-wicking properties. They are ineffective in keeping you dry and warm. Cotton jumpers are loose-fitting, which means they lack the necessary insulation and protection against cold winds.
What are the Best Mid Layers for Skiing?
Arcteryx Synthetic Insulated Mid Layer – Atom Hoody
My partner has owned this jacket for several years and loves it. It is available in men’s and women’s and a range of colours.
Berghaus MTN Seeker MW Down Hoody
I got this for Christmas and have used it all ski season and it keeps me warm, it is also extremely comfortable and great for non-ski days.
Berghaus MTN Seeker Synthetic Hoody
I also got this jacket recently and love using it on a daily basis, but it makes a great mid-layer for skiing. It is better for warmer days while skiing.
- Patagonia R1® Air Zip-Neck – technical fleece for cold conditions
- Patagonia Nano Puff – water-resistant on its own, so if it was warmer and there was no snow in the forecast, you could ski in just this without an outer layer.
You do not need mid layer pants for skiing because you should be warm enough with your base layer and insulated snow plants.
Spotlight: Ski resorts near to Geneva Airport
Outer Layer
The outer layer is the final layer of clothing needed for skiing. It is the layer that protects you from the elements, including wind, snow, and rain. You must choose a good quality outer layer that is waterproof and windproof to keep you dry while skiing.
This layer should be loose enough to allow for movement while skiing, but not so loose that it gets in the way. You may need to go up a size on the outer layer to ensure it fits over your other ski layers.
Look for shell jackets made from high-quality materials, such as Gore-Tex, which is highly waterproof, even in heavy rain and snow. You need an external pocket to put your ski lift pass in.
Some people like to wear thick winter jackets (sometimes these have fur-lined hoods) as their ski coats. These are convenient on a cold day because they provide an easy additional layer of warmth.
However, they are not advisable for wet or warmer days since they become drenched in snowfall. Additionally, these coats are often thicker and make it challenging to regulate your body temperature effectively while skiing.
Be aware when purchasing a coat that there are different gear options for skiers and snowboarders.
Ski jackets are designed specifically for skiing and are typically more fitted than other jackets. Snowboard jackets are looser and longer. They aim to provide extra coverage and protection for snowboarders who spend a lot of time sitting on the snow.
When selecting outer layers for skiing, do not forget your bottom outerwear, such as insulated snow pants (known as salopettes in Europe). This garment protects against cold temperatures, wind, and moisture.
Look for features like waterproofing, breathability, and adjustable waistbands. Make sure they are not too tight so you can fit your thermal leggings underneath (if required) and check you can tuck in your base layer to the waist.
What are the Best Outer Layers for Skiing?
Arcteryx Beta Lightweight Jacket
This shell is a high-cost item, but worth it if you are willing to splurge. The jacket is lightweight and made of waterproof GORE-tex, so no rain or snow will get through. The shell is durable – my partner has owned his for over 10 years.
Berghaus MTN Guide Alpine Pro Jacket
I got this Berghaus shell recently and think its just as good as the Arcteryx shell, but a fraction of the price. It is also made of waterproof GORE-tex material, so it is reliable.
- Arcteryx Insulated Jackets: an investment piece, but high-quality and they look great. These ski jackets are thicker than an outer shell, so you would most likely want to wear a fleece as your mid-layer, instead of a down or puffer jacket.
Ski Accessories
Once you have got your ski clothing layers, it is time to think about the rest of your ski gear.
Gloves
Invest in good waterproof gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm and dry. Look for gloves that are insulated yet breathable to keep your hands warm and prevent sweating. Mittens can be warmer than gloves.
Some gloves have pockets where you can place a hand warmer, which is worthwhile using for those who get cold hands.
Helmet
A helmet is a must-have accessory for skiing. It not only protects your head from injury in case of an accident, but it also keeps your head warm. Look for a helmet that fits well and has adjustable vents to regulate your temperature.
Do not attach a GoPro to your helmet as this will create a ridge and not allow the helmet to protect your head from impacts. Make sure you replace your helmet after any major impact.
SMITH Liberty MIPS Helmet
✔️ 20 vents for airflow
✔️ Antimicrobial lining for odour control
Goggles
Goggles are essential for skiing to protect your eyes from UV rays, wind, and snow.
I love my new ski goggles from SMITH because they have an interchangeable lens, one that is great for sunny days and the other that is better for darker and foggy days.
SMITH Smith I/O MAG S Goggles
ChromaPop Sun Platinum Mirror + ChromaPop Storm Blue Sensor Mirror
✔️ Interchangeable magnetic lenses for different weather conditions
✔️ Inner lens absorbs moisture to prevent fogging
Neck Warmer
A neck warmer or balaclava can keep your face and neck warm and protected from the elements.
How To Dress for Skiing in Cold Weather?
Understanding how to layer clothing for skiing is crucial in bitter conditions.
Start with a snug-fitting base layer followed by a thicker mid-layer. I run cold when skiing, so I like to wear an additional layer between my base layer and the mid layer.
The type of ski jacket you have will make a huge difference. For example, if you have a thick insulated ski coat, you may not need an additional layer. Whereas, I wear a down jacket with a GORE-TEX shell on top, which is thin.
Opt for waterproof mittens, as they generally keep your hands warmer than ski gloves with fingers. Consider wearing a thin pair of gloves beneath your mittens for added warmth. Additionally, bring hand warmers when skiing in freezing temperatures.
Use a neck gaiter or snood to cover the gap between your coat and helmet. You can also wear a thin hat or headband underneath your helmet for extra warmth.
Europeans commonly wear sunglasses, but goggles are warmer and better in blizzard conditions.
Can You Wear Leggings as a Base Layer for Skiing?
You can wear everyday leggings, such as ones from Lululemon; however, they will not keep you as warm as thermal leggings made of merino wool. Your warmth will also depend on how thick your snow pants are.
If the snow pants are fleece-lined, then you may get away with wearing gym leggings, but if they are just an outer shell, you will need warmer insulation for your legs.
What To Wear When Skiing for the First Time?
Here is what to wear for first-time skiing: base layer (top & bottom), mid layer (top), outer layer (jacket and salopettes/snow pants), snood/neck warmer, ski socks, ski gloves, helmet, and goggles.
It can be daunting knowing how to layer clothes for skiing when it is your first time in the mountains. After your first day on the slopes, you can always adjust certain layers for the next day. For example, by wearing a thinner mid-layer, or adding a layer between your base and mid-layer.
Ladies, I recommend wearing a sports bra because it will perform better if you sweat.
Conclusion: How to Layer for Skiing
Knowing how many layers for skiing depends on factors such as weather conditions and personal preference, but a common guideline is to dress in three layers.
The best layers for skiing depend on the weather conditions but they generally include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer for warmth, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect against the elements.
Choose high-quality clothing that is breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying. This will help keep you comfortable and dry throughout the day.
To put this theory into practice, read the following articles for inspiration on where to book your next ski trip.
For Europe, consider Solden in Austria or one of the ski resorts near to Geneva airport, such as the quaint ski town Bernex or the much larger Portes du Soleil.
For North American resorts, you must ski at Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort. But first learn if Whistler or Blackcomb makes the better base.
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