Henry Ford once said “Before everything else, getting ready is the secret of success.” This is certainly true for a ski day. One forgotten glove or the wrong kind of socks can spoil your entire day. My active kids have an amazing ability to stay warm while skiing, but once they do become cold or unhappy it is off to the lodge we go. Dressing in layers is essential and cotton must be avoided at all cost. Here’s a good bottom-to-top clothing checklist for a ski day
Ski socks. I recommend lightweight merino wool ski socks from Darn Tough Vermont or Smart Wool. Their socks are specially cushioned in all the right places and the fine gauge knit blocks moisture to keep tootsies dry and warm.
Long underwear. Polypropylene top and bottom base layers are crucial for a comfortable ski day. Base layers should be form fitting and worn next to the skin to wick away sweat and insulate heat. I’m a fan of Hot Chillys.
Polar fleece. – Patagonia, Lands End and Columbia all make excellent compressible fleece pull-overs to lock in heat.
Ski bibs/pants and jacket. Outerwear should be waterproof and wind-resistant. There is a wide array of style and budgets for ski outerwear, just be sure to pick a style that your child will want to wear again and again. The North Face is a good place to start.
Ski gloves/mittens. I prefer mittens for kids because they’re easier to slip on and they tend to stay warmer. Gordini and Grandoe are both great brands for children.
Gaiter or balaclava. These items will keep necks warm and protect little faces from windburn. They are light and easy to carry in your pocket.
Goggles. Well fitting goggles are much more effective than sunglasses. Oakley and Smith are good brands to try.
Helmet - Lucky Bums and Giros produce excellent ski helmets for kids.
REI is a great one-stop-shop for ski clothing for kids and adults. And for more detailed check-lists and clothing recommendations for children and adults check out Mike Doyle’s blog About.com Skiing.
