Wondering what to wear and what to pack to stay warm on a ski trip?
Layers, Layers, Layers
Wintertime in Colorado’s high country is a high alpine environment hence tends to be filled with cooler temperatures and plenty of precipitation however it's not at all uncommon for the sun to come out and temperatures to begin to rise, especially in the spring skiing months.
The best advice so you feel prepared for your trip to Colorado’s ski country is to pack lots of layers which allow you to dress comfortably no matter what mother nature throws your way. But what layers are the correct layers and why?
CLOTHING
Base Layers
I definitely recommend packing several base layers, especially if you plan to participate in any wintertime outdoor activities ranging from skiing and snowboarding to dog sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, nordic skiing, sleigh rides, and more! Baselayers are the first layer of clothing worn next to the skin. They are typically thin form fitting or semi-form fitting and designed to keep your core both warm and dry.
It’s important that you pack base layers not only for your top half, but also for your bottom. You want the fabric to be made of something that wicks, which means it draws moisture away from your skin helping to keep you warm. Many synthetic materials such as polyester and fleece have good wicking abilities and wool does as well. Cotton is not recommended because it absorbs moisture instead of wicking it away from your skin.
Mid Layers
This layer is worn over your base layer and is designed for warmth if needed. There are many options for mid layers. What mid layer will work the best for you will be determined by the activity you plan on doing. A sweater, button up flannel, or cardigan might be appropriate for wintertime indoor activities such as dinner, a brewery tour, or shopping. Where a merino wool ⅓ zip sweater, microfleece pullover, zip-up fleece jacket, light spring weight puffer jacket, vest, or any combination of the above might suit you best for your outdoor winter activities.
On real cold days you may want to wear 1 base layer followed by 2 mid-layers. The nice thing about mid-layers is they can easily be taken off and placed in a backpack or back in your vehicles if you find that you dressed too warm once you get moving.
Outer Layer
On the Top - This particular item of clothing is oftentimes referred to as a winter jacket. It is important that your winter jacket fits comfortably over your base and mid-layer(s), meaning it is not too tight, and that it is waterproof and breathable.
Additional winter jacket features that come in handy for any outdoor activities include, zippered vents which are usually located in the armpit areas of a jacket, a high collar, adjustable hood and cuffs, and finally a power skirt. Powder skirts are typically an extra flap of fabric with rubber lined elastic at the bottom running around the bottom ¼ of the inside of your jacket that snaps or velcros together around your hips. This really helps to keep snow or power from getting inside your jacket especially when outside playing or adventuring in the snow.
On the Bottom - WATERPROOF and VENTS are the name of the game here. There are many weights and styles of snow pants but on cold days you can always wear a thicker base layer or even multiple base layers underneath your snow pants and on warm days you can open your vents. A belt is also suggested to make sure your snow pants stay where you want.
FOOTWEAR
Socks - Having a warm foot all starts with the right sock. Avoid cotton socks and real thick bulky socks of any kind. You will want something that wicks while also staying in place. They make socks specifically designed for hiking, skiing and snowboarding, as well as quality warm socks for casual activities. Consider purchasing socks specific to whatever activities you plan on participating in during your stay. I personally have several pairs of SmartWool brand ski specific socks in multiple weights depending on the weather as well as a drawer full of mid weight to ultra lightweight performance, hiking, and outdoor rated wool socks that I wear on a daily basis throughout our winter months.
Shoes - Closed toe shoes with good traction is a must. Something that is waterproof is ideal and at the very least water resistant such as a full grain leather shoe preferred. Shoes that go above the ankle are also recommended as they will help keep the snow and slush from getting in. Sidewalks and walkways tend to get icy and snow packed, therefore can be very slippery. Even an OK shoe can be made much better with the right winter sock.
Boots - A must have if you plan on getting outside to play and recreate in the snow. Those of you who ski know that there are specific boots made for skiing, however they are not only quite dangerous to walk around in, but also tend to be extremely uncomfortable. Anyone who has tried doing an activity in ski boots besides skiing knows that they have 1 purpose, skiing. Not only are they uncomfortable, but their hard plastic shell can also be a hazard when walking on ice, hard packed snow, and on other hard surfaces especially when those surfaces are wet. For this reason many shops and stores have banned the wearing of ski boots in their facilities so you will need a different pair of boots for those other wintertime activities.
Snowboard boots on the other hand have rubber soles, more ankle flexibility than a hard shelled ski boot, and offer a good deal of warmth. They are also quite waterproof, For these reasons snowboard boots can make a great option for a winter boot for snow activities other than just snowboarding.
There are winter boots made for just about every mountain activity. Boot height, warmth, level of waterproofness, traction, styling, bulk, and sizing are all things to take into account when finding the perfect pair of winter boots. Lightly used winter boots are usually quite affordable, so don;t feel like you need to spend a lot of cash purchasing a brand new top of the line pair of boots for your vacation, especially if you don’t live in a cold, snowy climate.
HANDS
Gloves or Mittens - Waterproof, breathable warmth are key features for outdoor activities in order to keep your hands warm and dry. I always suggest bringing 2 pairs of mittens or gloves especially for kids because if they get wet they will need at least a night to dry. Mittens typically work better for kids. Adults may want to bring a pair of leather, cloth, or knit gloves or mittens. These don’t need to be as weatherproof, but still provide warmth for adults when walking and driving.
HEAD & NECK WEAR
Hat - A wintertime must to keep your head and ears covered. Wanting to add a little extra warmth? Look for a hat that is lined with fleece.
Helmet - If you are going to be participating in any activities involving snow where falling with any sort of speed is a concern then a helmet is highly recommended. Skiing, snowboarding, sledding, ice skating, snowmobiling, and fat biking are several wintertime activities that definitely fall into this category. You want to make sure your helmet offers the correct fit as well as level of protection for whatever activity you are participating in. There are many businesses across the county that sell helmets as well as rent. Some shops will even throw in a completely free helmet rental with the rental of a ski or snowboarding package.
Sunglasses - Areas across Colorado are known to have 300+ days of sunshine each year. The sun’s brightness coupled with the mountain’s high elevation and the reflection of the sun off of the snow can lead to what is commonly referred to as snow blindness or corneal sunburn. Be sure to pack a good pair of sunglasses for your trip. Optometrists recommend your sunglasses are also polarized or mirrored to protect from the sun’s glare off of the snow.
Snow Goggles- Another must have if you plan on participating in any wintertime activities where snow and or wind can get to your eyes past a pair of sunglasses. Goggles offer a seal, therefore greater protection for your eyes. Make sure to have the right lens for the time of day you are participating in snow sports. UV protectant tinted lenses are recommended for daytime skiing and yellow or clear lenses for nighttime.
Neck Gaiter - Offered in a variety of thicknesses and fabrics, neck gaiters offer protection from the sun, wind, and snow for your neck, chin, and lower face. Make sure yours is made of a material that wicks.
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