The 22 Best Ski Outfits for Standing Out on the Slopes (2024)

FAQs

How do you look cool on ski slopes? ›

Think graphic-patterned jumpers and rollnecks, woolen bobble-top hats, sturdy lace-up hiking boots, voluminous pantaloons. In the United States, thanks to most ski fields being in the Old West, there's a down-home cowboy ski chic vibe: Stetsons, denim, and fur embellishments aplenty.

Jeans (and a Few Other Clothing Items)

Instead, wear moisture-wicking pants that stay dry even when exposed to snow, ice, and cold temperatures. With layers of clothing, wear lighter tops underneath and heavier layers above that before you put your ski coat on to complete your outfit.

You'll probably need to wrap up whenever you go outside, so layer up t-shirts and jumpers and don't forget your hat, scarf and gloves. Thick socks – or a couple of pairs of thin ones – will keep your feet cosy, and you might want to throw on some leggings or thermals under your jeans if you get really chilly.

Keep your eyes on the apex. All the best skiers are looking down the hill. To get better flow down the slope from turn to turn, start looking exactly where you want your ski tips to enter the fall line, i.e., the apex of the turn. But before you reach that apex, shift your eyes to focus on where the next apex will be.

On the slopes vs off the slopes. The hoodie is an awesome garment for skiing trips because of the designs and materials available. However, one thing which some people forget when researching or buying the hoodies is that, by and large, the garments are not best suited to the time on the slopes.

You will always require a pair of well-fitted ski or snowboard boots to hit the slopes. You can either rent these in a resort or purchase your own. If you're skiing for the first time, it's advisable to rent your boots so you can get a feel for things before purchasing any equipment.

It may well be possible to ski in a hoody, but chances are in December it won't. If you get too hot in a normal coat (I do), you should invest in a shell jacket (water and windprrof, but no insulation, so you wear as many thermals underneath as you need).

Avoid slipping and sliding on the ice with some track sole boots – or try one with a nice long heel if you feel extra confident. Combine these with some thick thermal socks to stay warm in the frostier temperatures and you are good to go. For both men and women, we do still recommend a stylish powder ski jacket.

For men, shorts or boxer briefs made of synthetic fabric would be the way to go. They keep you warm and dry while allowing the flexibility necessary for activities like skiing or snowboarding. For women, similar rules apply. A comfortable pair of underwear that won't absorb moisture is a must.

Health and Comfort Considerations

Wearing regular pants under snow pants can cause overheating and excessive sweating. Wearing base layers under snow pants is sufficient for keeping warm. However, extra layers, like regular pants, might cause discomfort and limit movement.

Do you lean forward or back on skis? ›

Making sure that you have the forward lean in skiing is important, this lets you better control your skis since you are engaging the front edges to allow you to turn and control speed; leaning back will make your skis run out from under you.

Après-ski is all about your outfit, which typically involves a vintage look, although there are many different styles and themes. The main idea is to change out of your ski gear into softer, more comfortable clothing that's also stylish.

Depending on how hard you're working while skiing, you might get hot quite quickly, or if you're standing around a lot you might find yourself getting a bit colder!

Suggestions for What to Wear Under Ski Pants

A comfortable pair of underwear that won't absorb moisture is a must. Some women prefer tights or leggings as their base layer bottom, as they offer full coverage and keep the cold at bay. Both men and women can add a second layer of thicker, insulated pants if required.

3 layers are recommended, a merino wool base layer, thin or midweight. A fleece mid-layer. And, a waterproof shell. Bibs instead of ski pants if you think you'll fall a lot.

If you can find one you feel comfortable wearing both on the slopes and in the evening, you are onto a winner. A vibrant jacket combined with trousers in the evening is a very in-style look at the moment – try an electric blue coat with some simple black chinos for an effortless but eye-catching guise.