There's no substitute for the inimitable thrill of spending a day skiing down a snow-covered mountain. The connection to nature, the satisfying glide of your skis atop a blanket of fresh powder, and the adrenaline coursing through your veins as you feel the wind on your face and navigate each turn with precision. Serene skiers and adventure enthusiasts benefit from having the proper ski gear for a day on the slopes. After all, you wouldn't spend a day at the beach or hike without packing and wearing a few necessary things. Skiing is no different. The harsh elements of the mountain make your gear even more crucial. From essentials for safety to creature comforts, we're discussing all the must-have ski gear you should bring to help make the most of your next ski trip.
Clothing and Attire
No one likes the feeling of wet, cold snow against your skin while trying to enjoy a day of skiing. The right clothes will keep you warm, dry, and well-protected against the elements. Be sure to layer up with high-quality, water and windproof materials to help regulate your body temperature and keep out the frigid cold.
Base Layer (Thermal Underwear): Wicks moisture away from your skin to keep you dry. Look for moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or synthetic materials.
Mid Layer (Fleece or Down Jacket): Provides insulation to keep you warm. Fleece or down jackets are popular options.
Outer Layer (Ski Jacket & Pants): These should be waterproof and windproof. Gore-Tex or other waterproof fabrics are ideal for keeping you dry and protected from snow and wind.
Ski Socks High-quality, moisture-wicking socks that are long enough to cover your calves.
Neck Gaiter or Balaclava For extra warmth and protection from the wind and cold.
Gloves or Mittens Insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens will keep your hands warm and dry.
Protection and Safety Gear
The most essential gear you can bring is the gear that could potentially save your life. Helmets and goggles are non-negotiable items that help significantly minimize the risk of injury.
Snow Goggles: To protect your eyes from wind, snow, debris, and harmful UV rays by choosing ski goggles with anti-fog lenses and good UV protection. Explore the Dragon Alliance line of ski goggles for exceptional vision on the slopes, including our LUMALENS® Goggles offering color-optimized lenses for ultra-high definition optics across the entire spectrum of light conditions. And for bluebird days or aprés skiing, our AMPED sunglasses marry the function of our exceptional goggles with a stylish sunglass frame.
Helmet: Should you fall or make contact with an obstacle—and even seasoned skiers do—a helmet is a must for protecting your skull from potentially fatal impacts.
Ski Equipment
Of course, there are some things you simply couldn't ski without. Skis, poles, and ski boots go without saying as essential equipment.
Additional Accessories
Some other things you might be glad to have with you on the mountain are:
Water and snacks Skiing is a taxing activity on your body, and you never know when hunger might strike. Keeping hydrated isn't just wise but will improve your performance.
Sunscreen and Chapstick Those harmful UV rays on top of the mountain become intensified by the reflection of the snow. Be sure you bring SPF to reapply to any exposed skin, especially the face. Also, keep your lips hydrated and protected from sun and wind with chapstick that also has SPF.
ID and Phone or Smartwatch Your ID is always a good thing to keep on your person, and a phone or smartwatch will come in handy should you need to make an emergency call.
As any avid skier will tell you, you're only as good as your equipment. Invest in the proper ski gear and be sure nothing gets in the way of fully taking in the thrill of this one-of-a-kind winter activity. Get started investing in essential gear and explore our best snow goggles for crisp visibility on even the most challenging conditions.