Checklist For Skiing Abroad

Bringing the right gear is really important: being comfortable and dry on the slopes is a lot more fun than getting wet! Check out our tips and advice below.

Hats & Headwear

As 40% of your body's heat can be lost through your head a good quality hat is an essential item to have on the slopes. And now that hats come in so many shapes and forms you can really have some fun.

Jacket

Invest in a good jacket. This will offer warmth and protection. Try to make sure your jacket is not too heavy, to allow ease of movement. It must also be windproof and waterproof. Any jacket must cover the kidney area while longer jackets may be preferable for snowboarders. Zips should be plastic, as metal can freeze to the skin. Sleeves should also have cuffs, this will prevent snow from entering in the event of a fall.

Gloves / Mittens

A good pair of gloves or mittens are essential for happy skiing. Mittens allow better circulation and warm the hands. It is advisable not to buy cheaper PVC gloves as they will allow water in and can be easily damaged.

Salopettes / Trousers

Trousers and salopettes must also be windproof and waterproof. Saloppettes are a type of trouser for skiing, generally they come up higher on the waist and have shoulder straps. They must also have the same functions as the jacket. Salopettes must also have a high back to prevent snow coming in. Clothing should not be of a slippery material as it will provide no braking in a fall. Make sure they unzip on the lower leg in order to fit around your ski boot.

Socks & Feet

Tube or inner loop socks are the best type to get. If your feet are uncomfortable it could ruin your day's skiing. Do not try to wear two pairs of normal socks, as this will cause blistering. Cut your toenails before you go. Even professional skiers have been known to miss weeks of sport due to ingrown toenails and toe infections.

Under layers

A few thin layers of clothing under your jacket will serve you better than one thick one. The air between the layers will act as insulation. You can also remove a layer if you feel too warm during the day. The layer next to the skin should preferably be of polypropylene or cotton, this will draw the moisture from the body outwards.

Sunglasses

Dark, sturdy, unbreakable glasses and goggles will cut out the glare and protect your eyes from wind and snow blindness. Goggles offer best protection when it is snowing while sunglasses are ideal for sunny mild weather.

Sun Cream & Lip Salve

As UV levels are higher on the slopes due to the reflective effect of the snow, a high factor sun cream and lip salve are necessary. Even though it doesn’t feel hot, you can get burnt very easily.