There are only a few things as exhilarating as gliding downhill on a cold morning while enjoying the crisp mountain air. The adrenaline rush paired with the satisfaction of making tracks on the untouched snow makes skiing one of the perfect winter sports. Nevertheless, if you have never hit the slopes before, there is a good chance you are wondering, “what gear do I need for skiing?”
More often than not, people recommend first-time skiers to borrow gear from their friends or family. It is an excellent way to save money on a ski trip, and in some instances, it may even work. However, in most cases, ill-fitting or improper ski gear can cause accidents and result in injuries. Therefore, it is always good to purchase skiing essentials that fit well and suit your skill level.
Having the right equipment on the slopes can do wonders for your confidence. If you are a beginner, you will probably fall in the snow a few times before finding the right balance. However, if you have some experience on the slopes, an afternoon in the mountainside will help recharge your batteries and make you forget about all the worries.
What Gear Do I Need for Skiing?
Since incorrect ski gear can quickly turn your vacation from fun and exciting to cold and miserable, we have listed some skiing equipment you may need. To make things even easier, we went a step ahead and rounded up some of the best skiing gear that can make your trip comfortable and memorable.
Please note that these items have not been listed in a particular order.
Skis, Poles, and Bindings
Almost all ski resorts allow their guests to rent skis, poles, bindings, and other sports equipment. This service can be extremely convenient for those who have never skied before or don’t plan on indulging in this activity in the future.
However, it would be best to keep in mind that the hotel or rental service may not carry the equipment that fits your requirement. Even if they do, there is always a possibility that they may run out of it – especially during the busy seasons.
Alternatively, if you plan on skiing often in the future, it may be a good idea to invest in skis and poles.
Here are some of the best downhill skis and poles that can be a great choice for your upcoming winter vacation.
Rossignol Experience 76 CI Skis with Look Xpress Bindings
Rossignol Experience Pro Skis with Look Kid-X 4 Bindings
Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles
Ski Boots
The next item in our skiing checklist is ski boots. While you may consider renting skis and poles at the resort, it is recommended to wear your ski boots while gliding down the slope.
When buying this footwear, style and color should not be your main preferences. Instead, you must ensure the ski boots fit perfectly to the size and shape of your feet. Ideally, the boots should not feel tight and uncomfortable but snug and comfy. In addition, these shoes are heavy and feature a tougher outer shell with an inner lining to provide your feet with warmth and cushioning.
Let’s look at some of the most popular ski boots to add to your shopping cart:
Salomon X Access 70 Wide Ski Boots Men’s
Rossignol Pure Comfort 60 Ski Boots Women’s
Rossignol Speed 80 Men’s Ski Boots
Ski Helmet
Whether you are a beginner or have years of experience under your belt, you cannot compromise on your safety by forgetting to wear a ski helmet. Since falling is an essential part of this winter sport, skiing equipment such as a helmet can help protect you from sustaining serious injuries.
This headgear should mold against the size and shape of your head without making you feel uncomfortable or suffocated. Some high-end brands also offer helmets with additional attachments for GoPros and sports cameras. So, if you plan to record yourself gliding down the fresh snow, you will be spoiled for choice.
Here are some of the best ski helmets that will make a valuable addition to your ski gear collection.
OutdoorMaster Kelvin Ski Helmet
VANRORA Ski Helmet
ILM Ski Helmet
Ski Jacket
With the plethora of options available at sports stores, choosing the right ski jacket can be a stressful task. Unfortunately, many beginners make the mistake of favoring style and color over comfort and functionality, which can make their ski trip a little uncomfortable.
While choosing ski jackets, make sure to invest in a garment that has waterproof yet breathable fabric. In addition, it must have a high-collar, taped seams, long sleeves, and an inside pocket. If you can find a ski jacket with the bonus features of snow cuffs, underarm ventilation zippers, and a hood that fits over your helmet, it will make your life much easier.
These are some of the most highly-rated ski jackets that will be suitable for a winter excursion.
MOERDENG Men’s Waterproof Ski Jacket
MOERDENG Women’s Waterproof Ski Jacket
SUOKENI Waterproof Ski Jacket
Ski Pants
Just like ski jackets, a pair of ski pants is another skiing essential that everyone must pack in their winter suitcase before setting off for a ski resort.
Ski pants should also be made from breathable and waterproof material. In addition, they must be warm and comfortable. It is also important to buy pants that aren’t too loose or extremely tight, as they can obstruct your movement and result in accidents in the mountains.
Moreover, consider choosing a garment with zipper pockets for added convenience.
These are some of our top choices for ski pants:
Arctix Essential Snow Pants
Gash Hao Softshell Ski Pants
BenBoy Waterproof Ski Pants
Ski Goggles
Still wondering, “what gear do I need for skiing?” Well, if you have already acquired all of the items mentioned above, it’s time to look at ski goggles.
Though they may look like a perfect accessory to complement your winter apparel, ski goggles are more than just a fashion statement. They enhance your vision by protecting your eyes from snow, sun, and other elements.
These goggles can also come in handy during snowstorms and other unexpected weather conditions. Moreover, if you wear spectacles for your eyesight, you cannot afford to miss out on this skiing essential.
Let’s look at some of the most innovative goggles you should add to your skiing checklist.
OutdoorMaster Ski Goggles OTG
ZIONOR Lagopus Ski Goggles
Findlay Ski Goggles
Thermal Base Layers
Ski jackets and pants may be considered ski gear essentials, but they are often not enough to keep out the cold in snow-covered mountainside. To make sure you are warm and cozy while gliding on the snow, consider adding a thermal base layer to your ski wardrobe.
The base layer refers to the clothing you wear under your ski jacket and pants. If the temperature drops down further or you can’t stop your teeth from chattering despite being bundled up in your ski wear, you can even add a mid-layer over the base.
These are some of the best options you must consider for your winter trip to the mountains:
Thermajohn Men’s Ultra Soft Thermal Underwear Long Johns Set
HEROBIKER Men’s Thermal Underwear Long Johns Set
MeetHoo Thermal Underwear Long Johns Set for Women
Waterproof Gloves
Gloves or mittens are also a skiing essential. They will keep your hands warm as you spend your day in the snow. While there are many options available in the market, it is a good idea to invest in gloves that are waterproof and properly insulated.
In addition, please make sure to choose a pair of gloves that offer high flexibility and provide excellent grip. After all, you wouldn’t want to buy something that would make it difficult to hold on to the ski poles.
Let’s explore some of the most recommended waterproof gloves:
MCTi Waterproof Ski Gloves
VELAZZIO Waterproof Ski Gloves
ANDORRA Women’s Waterproof Ski Gloves
Ski Socks
Skiing can be a lot of fun as long as you are adequately warm and comfy. Therefore, it is important to invest in a pair or two of high-quality ski socks. They will not only make your ski trip more comfortable but also protect your feet from going numb on the snow or, worse, being frostbitten.
Consider purchasing ski socks made from wool or a synthetic material. If someone advises you to don two pairs of socks to stay warm while skiing, please know that wearing one pair over another may not only lead to discomfort on the slope but can also cut down your blood circulation.
Furthermore, just like your gloves, your socks should be waterproof as well. They will help keep your feet dry and safe even during extreme temperature drops.
Here are some of the best socks to wear under ski boots:
High-Performance Wool Ski Socks
CXGCLUB Wool Ski Socks
CelerSport Ski Socks
Ski Skull Cap or Helmet Liner
Just because you have splurged on a ski helmet to protect your head from injuries doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy a skull cap or a helmet liner to stay warm. These accessories provide your head with an additional layer of protection while keeping the inside of your helmet clean and fresh.
In addition, this headwear ensures you remain warm even if the weather gets colder. However, if you are in the market for skull caps, make sure to buy one made from waterproof material. It should also be breathable and fit perfectly under your helmet without drooping down on your eyes.
Let’s check out the top choices for this must-have ski gear:
Tough Headwear Winter Thermal Skull Cap
OZERO Winter Beanie
French Fitness Revolution Skull Cap
Please note that you can also buy fleece skull caps with ski masks and neck warmers for you winter activity.
Backpack
A backpack is one of the most important items on any skiing checklist.
Technically, you can buy any sports bag for your ski trip as long as it is sturdy and boasts enough capacity. However, if you are looking for something a little more convenient, consider checking ski boot bags.
Made from tough and waterproof materials, these backpacks feature a fully padded back panel to provide cushioning against your spine. Moreover, they include specially designed compartments for your ski boots, which can be rather heavy and hard to carry otherwise. These ski backpacks also have separate pockets for jackets, helmets, goggles, gloves, clothes, and sustenance.
You can also use additional pockets in the bag to store your sunscreen, lip balm, medicines, and most importantly, a small emergency kit.
Here are our top choices for ski boot bags:
Unigear 50 L Ski Boot Bag
OutdoorMaster 50 L Ski Boot Bag
Element Equipment Ultimate Boot Bag
Walkie-Talkies
The last item on our list of skiing essentials is walkie-talkies.
They are small two-way radios that allow you to stay in touch with your family and friends in the mountains. Since these hand-held devices do not require mobile towers to connect you to emergency services and others, they can be an excellent form of communication during bad weather spells and unexpected situations.
While many well-known brands offer walkie-talkies for skiing, it is important to check their features before making a purchase. For instance, an ideal device must have at least 15 to 20 channels with multiple privacy codes so that you can tune into an available channel with ease. Additionally, it is recommended to buy walkie-talkies that offer NOAA Weather Alerts and boast a built-in flashlight.
Take a look at some of the top-rated walkie-talkies for skiing:
Motorola T605 Talkabout
Midland GMRS Two-Way Radio
COBRA ACXT645 Walkie Talkies
Our Final Thoughts
If you love snow-capped mountains and enjoy the winter days with the sun shining brightly in the sky, you should consider booking a trip to a ski resort and indulge in this popular recreational activity. Sliding down snow slopes is not only going to invigorate your soul but also help you burn calories and strengthen your heart. Overall, it is a great workout that can be beneficial for your health.
We hope our comprehensive list on “what gear do I need for skiing” has answered all your pressing questions.
So, what are you waiting for? Start checking skiing essentials off your list and ensure you have all the right sports equipment and clothing for your next family or solo trip.
