New to winter snowsports? Let us be the first to welcome you to the
awesome world of Skiing and Snowboarding. Much like golf, swimming, and
tennis - snow sports are activities you will be able to participate in
and enjoy for much of your life. Here are a few basics of skiing and
snowboarding attire to help inform you about your new adventure.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
You should wear clothes that will keep you warm and dry. That may
sound obvious but there is a lot that goes into a proper outfit. After
you fall a couple of times - and you probably will fall - cotton
clothing such as jeans and a sweatshirt will become wet, then cold. You
will need the right kind of clothes to keep you warm and dry. Chances
are you probably have most of what you need. If you don't, you can
borrow some from friends.
LEARN TO LAYER!
You don't want to be too hot, nor do you want to be too cold. You
want to be just right, and most importantly, dry. The key to warmth is
making smart apparel choices and layering. We suggest dressing in three
layers: inside, middle, and outer.
INSIDE OR "WICKING" LAYER
Since the inner layer is worn next to your skin, it is important to
pick a material that will pull moisture away from your skin, a process
called wicking. Quick-drying polyester jersey fabric offers great
moisture management and breathability. Silk is also a good natural
fabric that pulls away moisture from the skin.
Also, consider your sock choice. There is nothing worse than frozen
toes. A pair of lightweight or medium-weight socks works best. Good
fabrics for ski and snowboard socks are wool, polyester, and silk. Don't
give into the idea that multiple layers of socks are better. That will
only restrict circulation and cause your feet to be colder rather than
warmer.
MIDDLE OR "INSULATION" LAYER
For the middle layer, look for pullovers, sweat shirts, and vests
that will keep you warm by trapping air between the fibers and
insulating you. A great material for this is fleece.
OUTER OR "SHELL" LAYER
It is important that your jacket and pants guard against the elements
and keep out the snow, while allowing some breath-ability. When looking
for a jacket, look for one that has a snow guard or is long enough to
overlap the pants a couple inches. One of the most important purchases
you will make for skiing and snowboarding is your gloves. Hands can
easily get wet and it is very important to keep them warm.
ALSO, DON'T FORGET TO:
Protect your eyes! Sunglasses or goggles protect eyes from dangerous
UV rays, which become stronger with the reflection of surfaces such as
snow.
Wear a warm hat or
helmet.
Like other layers, make sure the fabric works well when wet, such as
wool or polyester. Helmets are also a warm and safe idea. Most helmets
have the same safety standards and can often be rented if need be.
You may not need as many layers of clothing as you think. On a sunny
day, you may only need two layers - the waterproof outer layer and the
turtleneck/long underwear first layer. But bring a middle layer (fleece
or wool sweater) just in case. You can always take off some layers as
you warm up.
