How To Layer for Skiing: The Ultimate Guide

Base Layer (Moisture-Wicking Layer)

Your base layer is where it all starts and the first part of the moisture-wicking process. Look for technical base layer tops and bottoms that fit relatively tight and offer some stretch. The jury is out on synthetic vs. organic materials (merino or alpaca wool). Both have their advantages, and it’s kind of up to you to figure out what you like best.

Merino tends to be warmer and more resistant to stink, meaning you can wear the layers multiple days in a row. Synthetic materials can be more comfortable, less spendy and often offer compression and support.

Whatever you do, avoid wearing cotton as a base layer. It gets wet really fast, won’t wick moisture effectively, and gets cold as soon as it's wet.

Mid Layer (Insulation Layer)

Mid layers come in many shapes and sizes, but the main point here is to provide insulation for your core. These layers are usually a hoodie or a crewneck/quarter zip style and can be made of fleece, synthetic or down insulation. Down tends to be the warmest and most breathable but won’t stay warm when wet, so save that for the absolute coldest days. Instead, fleece or synthetic insulation (Primaloft is a great material) is a better option, especially if you tend to sweat a lot while skiing.

Mid layer fit is also very important–too tight, and it will constrict your movement, too loose and it wont trap heat as well.

Shell Layer (Protection From the Elements)

The final step to the equation is selecting the right shell layers. These are here to keep the elements out and offer a waterproof, windproof, and breathable external layer. Again, these come in many shapes, sizes, and materials—each is designed to excel in certain conditions. Typically, you’ll want to choose between hardshell and softshell materials. For most days, non-insulated shells will work best, but consider an insulated shell for super cold days.

Hardshell materials like Gore-Tex are much more water- and windproof and offer good breathability (more than enough for resort skiing and most backcountry skiing), but can be a little stiffer and more restrictive to movement. Hardshells are the best option for powder skiing during a storm, or if you live in an area that gets a lot of moisture like the PNW.

Softshells, on the other hand, don’t have that “hard” outer layer. These materials (like Schöller or some Gore-Tex fabrics) are much more breathable, stretchy, and tend to be more comfortable than hardshells but lack the heavy-duty waterproofing. These are a better option for skiing during warmer, sunnier weather if you live in a dry climate like Colorado or are looking for a really breathable outer layer for ski touring.

Some Notes on Your Feet, Hands and Face

Keeping your extremities warm is just as important when it comes to layering. However, the key here is to not layer. Stick to a single pair of wool socks in your ski boots (wearing multiple socks is a surefire recipe for painful blisters, compromises the fit of your ski boot, and blocks moisture wicking).

Similarly, a single pair of warm waterproof mittens or gloves tends to be warmer than trying to stuff liner gloves into mittens. Finally, a single neck gaiter or balaclava will go a long way to keeping your face and neck warm without compromising the fit of your ski helmet. On storm days, bring an extra to swap out midday when yours becomes wet.

Add-Ons for the Coldest Days

On those truly arctic days, there are a few things you can do to keep yourself a bit warmer on the mountain. First, wearing a pair of fleece or down pants will help keep your legs and feet warmer. Then, it’s possible to add a second midlayer on top of what you typically wear under your shell. Finally, if you’re planning on doing a lot of standing around, consider wearing a large belay-style down parka on top of your shell to help further trap heat (this allows you to quickly take it off when you inevitably get too warm without having to unzip your shell as well).

Finally, battery-powered boot heaters, hand warmers, and heated gloves are all great additions to your kit to keep you warm.