Skiing is one of the most marvelous outdoor winter sports. It combines both thrilling speed and great physical exercise. To enjoy skiing to the fullest, you need an adequate amount of preparation. Skis of course, but also fitting ski clothes, equipment, coat and gloves. If you don't want to spend hours reading all the advice on the Internet, we have put together a short guide on how to prepare for skiing successfully.
1. Invest in good-quality ski outfit
Good-quality ski outfit may be a little more expensive, but it's essential for keeping warm and also protecting you from a fall on the slopes. Never scrimp on quality when it comes to your ski suit. When in doubt, ask a store attendant or go with those that come from a legit shop specialized in outdoor sports industry.
Layering is critical in the cold. By adding and removing different layers of clothing, you get to regulate your body’s temperature. You don’t want to get cold but you also want to prevent from getting too warm that you start sweating, which will then eventually making you colder.
Make sure to layer up with a thick base layer, premium socks, and a windproof ski suit or jacket and pants. Here are some of our recommendations for the best premium quality clothing:
Stylish Men’s Ski Suit
Thermal Ski Jumpsuit For Children
2. Keep your head protected
Outdoor activities on the slopes can be very dangerous. You may get cuts and bruises from the tree branches here and there. There are also possibilities of more serious incidents that can lead to severe concussions, fracture of the skull and even death. Wearing a proper ski helmet reduces the severity of these injuries. It also keeps your head warm and gives you more confidence on the slopes.
Choose a ski helmet that not only gives you protection but also comfort. Breathable with adjustable fitting are the most ideal features to look for in a ski helmet. Here’s one that we highly recommend for your ski adventures:
Ski/ Snowboard Helmet with Visor
3. Keep your face protected
While you might not think UV rays pose a risk in the cold winter months, they still do. Apply a sufficient amount of your favorite sunscreen with SPF 30 above before going onto the slopes, just as you would in the summer. Also a quality neck gaiter face mask like below will not only protect your face conveniently from freezing wind and sun-burn, but also make you look cool skiing down the slope.
Stylish Breathable Neck Gaiter Face Mask
4. Keep your hands warm
Having freezing hands is the last thing you want during an all-day long skiing. It would definitely compromise your enjoyment on the slopes. Thus, wearing ski gloves or mittens is a must unless you don't mind having frozen hands. There are different types of gloves in the market but make sure to choose those that are specially designed for skiing and/or snowboarding. Get the type of gloves that does not only have good heat retention but also snug enough for you to easily grip your poles, grab your skis, open your zippers, and most especially, use your phone as necessary like the one below.
Keep your feet comfortable and warm before and after putting on the heavy ski boots for long hours is essential to your comfort of skiing experience. You would more easily recover from fatigue from all-day long skiing/snowboarding and avoid foot or leg cramps. Start with a good base layer to keep your feet warm in a pair of snow boots below. Wear thin socks and a heat pad with the right size ski boots of a proper tightness to your feet so that your heels do not lift while skiing. Having your heels 'locked in' is a massive confidence booster. This means you will feel more in control and be able to perform your best on the slope.
Adventures during the cold days can be really tricky so it is very important to be prepared. Make sure to pack all your ski gears and extra set of body warmers. Thermal containers for warm food and drinks are a must. Portable chargers for your electronics will come in handy too.
Because there are too many things to prepare and bring, it is also essential to have a carrier big enough to pack all of these. We highly recommend this one bag that can carry all of your essentials down the slope:
