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The slopes are calling, and we’ve got the best skiwear for your next trip
Even if you’re just going for the après-ski

Ski season is here and while we’re sure attention must be paid to perfecting your ski plough and finding the best spots for the freshest snow, it’s also important to invest in the right kit.
Like all physical activities, from running to yoga, what you wear can make all the difference. Good quality skiwear will last you for years to come, but it doesn’t come cheap, so it pays to do your research before your splurge.
We’ve picked out the top-performing skiwear on the market, which combines practicality with style, so you’ll look just as good as you sip on a well-deserved Aperol Spritz post-ski, as you do on the slopes.
What skiwear do I need?
It can be hard to know which pieces of skiwear to invest in when there’s an overwhelming amount of kit available on the market. To cut through the noise, we spoke to professional snowboarder Marion Hærty for her advice on what you actually need.
“First of all, you want to layer up to stay warm,” she advises. “Think thermal base layers, an insulating mid layer and a breathable but waterproof outer layer, for top and bottom. Then, depending on whether you ski or snowboard, you’ll need boots, skis/snowboard and poles if you ski.” If you aren’t planning on skiing a lot, you may prefer to rent or borrow some of your kit, particularly the skis, boots and poles.
“Safety is key, so always wear a helmet and wear goggles to protect your eyes. You can opt for a helmet with MIPS technology to reduce impact in case of a fall.” MIPS (or Multi-directional Impact Protection System) technology incorporates a low friction layer beneath the helmet to reduce rotation during impact.
“Sunglasses look great, but sunlight gets reflected on snow and still harms your eyes, so goggles are the better choice,” Hearty adds. “You also want to protect your hands from the cold, the snow and the sharp edges of skis and snowboards, so wear waterproof gloves or mittens. And if you tend to run cold, you can add some heated socks!”
What should you not wear while skiing?
“Stay away from cotton, as it will hold moisture close to your body and you’ll get cold very quickly,” warns Hearty. “Jeans are also an absolute no-go, as they will get wet and cold and make it difficult to move.”
What features should I look for in skiwear?
Waterproofing
Waterproof clothing is imperative for keeping you warm and dry during an activity that’s notoriously cold and wet. The fabric is usually coated in a moisture-repelling layer, to ensure it doesn’t enter your suit.
Breathability
Though you will feel the chill while you’re on the snowy slopes, when you’re using your body strength to stop yourself toppling over and plummeting into the snow, you can work up quite a sweat. That’s why it's important that your fabric is not only insulated, but breathable too. Some jackets have pockets at the armpits for an extra bit of airflow. Venting zips are another useful addition.
Wind-proofing
You want to look for windproof pieces that are designed to protect you from cold, blustery air. Opt for dual layers that provide insulation and temperature regulation.
Ankle gaiters
There aren’t many things worse than a soggy sock (not to be dramatic). You want your kit to keep the snow out as much as possible. So, it’s a good idea to look for trousers with gaiters at the ankles to cover your boots. They create a seal to stop the snow entering your boot, and ultimately, ruining your day.
Pockets
There isn’t much you need to take with you up a mountain, but it is important to keep your essentials (i.e. phone, keys and snack) safe on the slopes. This is why we’ve made sure the skiwear listed below all has a reasonable amount of both internal pockets for extra security, and external pockets for easy access.
Of course, we know you’ll also want to look good on the slopes, so we’ve also considered style in our picks.
Now you know what to look for (and what to avoid), this is the skiwear we’ll be packing for our next trip.
Madeleine is our Lifestyle Writer, specialising in expert-tested reviews and round-ups on the latest beauty Beauty and Health & Wellness products. From skincare to protein powders, Maddie is committed to providing honest and helpful reviews to help guide readers to the best product for them. Maddie has a BA in English Literature and Language, which stemmed from her lifelong interest in reading and writing. She started her post graduate life at Hearst UK within a marketing capacity, which quickly turned into a desire to fulfil a writing career.
When she is not writing about the latest expert reviewed products, you can find her rifling through vintage shops or car boots, reading a print magazine, or capturing portraits on her film camera.


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