Going skiing this year? From proper socks to salopettes, here’s what you’ll need to help you master the slopes.
Ski suits
Chic yet practical, an all-in-one ski suit offers incredible protection against the elements while never compromising on style. A favourite for their retro-inspired aesthetic, they come in so many different styles, patterns and colours – though probably best to avoid all-white, for visibility’s sake.
Ski jackets
An all-in-one is a brilliant choice, until you have to go to the bathroom… there’s nothing like being starkers in a public bathroom stall to make you reevaluate things. For those of you keen to avoid such a situation, a ski jacket and trousers is the way to go. Metallic continues to reign supreme this season though it’s this red star number from My Sunday Ski that gets my vote.
Ski trousers/salopettes
If you’ve never been skiing and aren’t familiar with the lingo (I had to Google this so no shade), salopettes is the French for ‘overalls’. The main difference between salopettes and ski trousers is that the former tends to refer to looser-fitting, bib-style trousers while the latter are generally more form-fitting. There are pros and cons to both (e.g. salopettes tend to keep your torso warmer and generally stay in place better while trousers are easy to layer but may let snow in if you fall), so which one you go for ultimately comes down to personal taste.
Thermals/base layers
Outerwear is important but your base layers are equally so. As the foundation of your outfit, they’ll help regulate your temperature on the slopes, wicking moisture and sweat away from your skin and keeping you toasty even in freezing conditions. Synthetics and merino wool work best.
Goggles
Ski goggles are non-negotiable to protect your eyes and improve visibility on the slopes. Not only will they shield you from UV rays, they’ll also help to create a barrier against cold air, thereby keeping your face and eyes warmer in harsh conditions.
Gloves and ski socks
The last two essentials you’ll need – aside from a helmet and ski boots, both of which you can usually rent at the resort – are gloves and ski socks. When shopping for the former, look for GORE-TEX to allow breathability and be sure to try potential options on to ensure dexterity. Some gloves even specify the temperature ranges they are suited for. Regarding the latter; regular socks just won’t cut it so do yourself a favour and invest in a good pair. There is nothing worse than the feeling of your socks slipping off your feet, except maybe your socks slipping off your feet while skiing down the side of a mountain.
Sustainable options
If skiing isn’t something you do regularly, splashing out on a really expensive outfit just might not be feasible – renting or buying second hand are cheaper and definitely more sustainable alternatives. “Most items can be sourced second-hand in charity shops and on eBay,” Gracie Collier, owner of Spice Vintage Ski—Ireland’s first-ever online vintage ski store—tells me. “You know they even have green resorts now? Saas-Fee in Switzerland uses zero-emission electric buses to move skiers around, and renewable hydroelectricity to power lifts. Have a look into it before choosing a resort!”
For other rental options, Drobey recently launched their own ski collection and Hurr in the UK has plenty of great choices too.
Featured photography by @teresa.jg.