The Ultimate Skiing Essentials List
Are you new to skiing, snowboarding, or winter sports in general? Well, good for you, MOST winter sports dress the same way, in LAYERS. Basically, when participating in a winter sport, it’s just like the summer. Only, instead of trying to cool down, you’re trying to stay warm. However, once you start to sweat, it’s much like the summer, you start to de-layer. In this list, you will find MOST winter sport essentials, specifically, for alpine skiing.
In this post you will learn all about different skiing essentials, skiing essentials for beginners, skiing essential clothes, ski trip packing list, skiing accessories, and much more.
I also made a fun quiz for you to take to see what essential items for skiing you, personally, may need the most. This quiz is meant to be a fun way to see what you really need while skiing, but below it, is an actual list of what you will need when skiing.
This post is all about skiing essentials.
Skiing Essentials:
What Skiing Essential Are You Quiz?
Here you will find what skiing essentials you are based on this fun little quiz. Now, when it comes to skiing there are a LOT of essentials, thus, this quiz is a fun, QUICK way to see some of the essentials you will need most when skiing. Anyways click the quiz to find what skiing essentials you embody most.
Skiing Essentials List
1. Base Layers
Okay, so first things first, you need to start with the base. So, the first thing you will put on before skiing, is your base layers. I like to wear some sort of long underwear, that is NOT cotton, silk is a great option, or Under Armour.
2. Socks + Second Layer
Okay, we CANNOT forget the socks! Specifically, SKI socks. I HIGHLY recommend getting some Darn Tough ski socks. I buy the socks that are specifically made for skiing. Darn Tough also sells great hiking socks. In addition, for my upper body, I will wear another layer over my base layer. Typically, it will be a big sweater and or sweat pants for my lower body. However, I only wear the sweat pants if it’s going to be a really cold day. In addition, on really cold days, I will wear a thin pair of ankle socks, then my ski socks on top.
3. Jacket + Snow pants
Alright onto one of the more well known items on this list, a ski jacket and snow pants. It is pretty important to have the snow pants especially if this is your first time skiing or snowboarding, because you WILL fall a LOT. Thus, snow pants are pretty important to have, to stay dry and comfortable. Also, a ski jacket will protect you much better from the wind and cold than a normal jacket.
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4. Helmet, Goggles + Neck Warmer
Alright a neck warmer is what I would put on next or a Bara Clava. I like thinner neck warmers, so then I can put my ski jacket hood over my helmet, and zip up my coat all the way, to keep me warm. Bara Clavas are great though if you prefer thicker neck warmers. Then, a ski/snowboard helmet is pretty essential to protect your head from injuries. Also, goggles are really important to protect your eyes from the sun, wind, and cold.
5. Gloves or Mittens
Okay, moving on, gloves or mittens are SUPER important. You NEED something to protect your hands from the cold. I prefer mittens (they are warmer) but whatever is your preference will be great.
6. Ski Boots
Okay, next part of your uniform is your ski boots! Now, if this is your first time skiing, DO NOT buy a pair of ski boots, rent them for the day at the mountain or a nearby shop. Also, let the workers show you how to put them on and how tight they should be. But if you love skiing, go ahead and buy a pair of boots, if you haven’t already, from your favorite brand.
8. Your SKIS, Obviously
Skis! Of course, you need skis to ski! Again, if you are a beginner or this is your first time skiing, DO NOT buy a pair of skis, rent them. And again, if you are an intermediate or expert skier, buy whatever type of skis you prefer (if you don’t already have a pair or multiple pairs).
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7. Poles
Okay, ski poles really are the last thing you need when skiing. If you are a beginner or this is your first time, you do not need poles, they will only get in your way. But again, if you are an intermediate or expert skier, you will want poles.
How to Pack & What to Bring With You
When I go skiing, I always have my boot bag where I pack my boots, snow pants, goggles, mittens, beanie, and any other clothing I need. Then I will pack a small backpack, like a CamelPak, where I put my water, neck warmers, chapstick, sunscreen, my GoPro, mounts, and camera. Also, I will wear a pair of regular winter boots to wear in the parking lot.
Also, don’t forget to buy a lift ticket before you get in a lift line. Since Covid, I have started to buy all my lift tickets online, and I believe this is still some mountains policy, to only buy online. Also, some mountains will sell out, so make sure to pre-buy your ticket if you can.
Skiing Accessories
Okay, on to some fun stuff! I always have my GoPro, which I have a helmet mount for. However, a lot of snowboarders use selfie sticks for their GoPros. I like to take cool videos when I explore new mountains, and I really LOVE my GoPro. I use a GoPro 7 and LOVE it! Also, more great skiing accessories are STICKERS! I’m a sucker for awesome helmet stickers. I love the way they look and it’s a cool way to show off where you’ve been, and a great conversation starter!
And that wraps up all the skiing essentials you will need while skiing and being in the cold. I hope you enjoyed and learned some great new tips. Thank you so much for reading and get out there!
