Clothes for the ski holiday

Short answer: On skis you switch between hard effort on the way down and standing still on the lift. Your inner layer has to handle both, and that is where you decide, so choose a thin layer that moves moisture away from the skin.

The run and the lift

A run is hard work for your legs and upper body, and you sweat more under your jacket than you think. Then you stand still on the lift for several minutes. Your inner layer has to move moisture while you ski and not turn cold when you stop. That layer shapes how the day feels.

The lift is colder than the run

On the lift you stand still in the wind, and a damp inner layer cools quickly. The cold does not come from outside, but from the moisture still lying against your skin. A thin layer that moves moisture outward keeps you warmer. See the bamboo sweatshirt for men as a mid layer.

Layer on layer

Three layers is the classic setup: a thin one inside, a warm one in the middle and the ski jacket outside. You can take off the mid layer at lunch if the day is mild. Choose layers that are not too thick, so you can move freely and still zip your jacket.

Ski boots close the foot in

A ski boot has no air, and moisture can only escape through the sock. Socks that sit smoothly without folds reduce pressure and rubbing in a hard boot. Avoid wearing two pairs on top of each other, as that can cause folds and pressure points. See all clothing for men.

The lunch break

At lunch you sit still indoors, and your body cools down. Open your jacket and take off the mid layer if it is damp, so it can dry a little. When you head out again, a dry layer feels good. Some people bring a spare inner layer in their backpack.

The evening needs something else

After a day on skis, most people want something soft. Your body is tired, and it feels good to get out of tight layers and ski boots. Soft trousers, a comfortable top and thick socks are what you miss most. See most popular for men for the evenings.

Drying at the hotel or cabin

Clothes that are not dry by the next morning are cold to put on. Hang inner layers and socks up as soon as you come in, not in a pile on the floor. Thin layers dry faster than thick ones, which is a good reason to choose several thin layers.

Packing list

Pack two or three inner layers so you always have a dry one. Bring a mid layer, several pairs of ski socks and soft clothes for the evening. On a long trip, wash inner layers and socks in the sink with a little mild detergent and hang them overnight.

Frequently asked questions

What should you wear closest to the skin when skiing

A thin layer that moves moisture away from the skin. It is the only thing that works both on the run and on the lift, because moisture does not stay on the skin.

Why do you get coldest on the lift

Because you stand still in the wind while the damp inner layer from the run keeps cooling your skin. A drier inner layer makes the lift more comfortable.

What should you bring for the evening

A soft layer and a pair of thick socks. After a day in ski boots, both are what you miss most, along with soft trousers.