3 easy steps to staying toasty on the slopes

3 easy steps to staying toasty on the slopes.

Nothing can ruin a day at the snow quicker then being cold and wet. The weather on a mountain can change drastically and very quickly so wearing the right gear will not only ensure your comfort, but also the safety of your 10 fingers and toes.

The trick comes down to a solid layering system! Not many people realise that what you wear under your outerwear will go a long way towards making sure you enjoy every moment of your winter escape.

A layering system is typically made up of 3 layers. A base layer, mid layer and outerwear.

Base Layer: The first layer you put on.

The purpose of a base layer is not only to keep you warm, but also to draw moisture away from your body. It might be freezing outside, but you still sweat when you are on the slopes because you’re being active and having wet clothing against your body will be a guaranteed day-ender. Polypro base layers are a great product at an affordable price and you can usually find a range of fun prints in this type of base layer.  Merino wool is hailed as the king of the base layer fabrics, and although it’s more expensive, it’s well worth the investment if you plan on having a few snow trips. Merino comes in several options but might not be suited for those who react to the natural fibres against the skin. 

Mid Layer: The layer which offers the most flexibility to adjust to the weather conditions and your own personal thermostat.

Too cold? Add another mid-layer. Too hot? Take it off and put it in your backpack. The mid layer is there to provide warmth via insulation, and to continue the job of moving moisture away from your body to the outside of your clothing where it can evaporate. Synthetic fleeces are great mid-layers as they’re lightweight, retain warmth when wet and are quick to dry. Soft shells and lightweight puffer jackets are also great options if you tend to feel the cold. If you find you only need the extra warmth on your body core, then a sleeveless vest is also a good pick. 

Outerwear: This is the barrier between you and the elements, and will ensure you remain warm and dry all day long.

You will need a jacket and pants that are tough wearing and waterproof. There are 2 main options when it comes to outerwear styles: Shell or Insulated. A shell jacket is a thin, lightweight, waterproof outer layer, that is highly breathable, and designed for movement and flexibility. You control your warmth with the layers you wear under a shell jacket, so make sure to choose one that is roomy enough to accommodate your base and a mid-layer. An insulated jacket will be bulkier, but that’s because they have a heat-trapping loft built in between the outer shell and the lining. Insulated jackets and pants are a great option if you feel the cold, or alternatively if you prefer to wear light base layers and control all your heat with your outerwear.