How to dress for ski touring?

Ski touring is a fascinating winter sport that combines skiing and mountain hiking. With every passing season, more people become hooked on it. However, in order to enjoy it to the fullest, you need a properly selected outfit. How to dress for ski touring? We’re here to answer your questions.

What to wear while ski touring? A layered outfit is fundamental

Winter sports enthusiasts can choose from more than just skiing and snowboarding. Ski touring, a blend of skiing and hiking, is the perfect solution for those seeking an alternative to busy pistes. As in any sport, it is essential to have properly chosen apparel, which should not only provide unrestricted movement, but most importantly - ensure thermal comfort and protection against rain, snow or wind. Wondering how to dress for a ski touring adventure? A layered outfit consisting of comfortable clothes that provide thermal regulation and come with windproof and waterproof properties will work best. We're here to suggest you how to build a ski touring outfit to stay comfortable in all weather conditions.

How to dress for ski touring? Here’s your base layer: thermal underwear

The role of the base layer of a ski touring outfit is to regulate body temperature - but it should also be elastic and breathable. It's best to choose thermal underwear made of knitted fabrics with a high content of merino wool. Such a fabric will be both warm and breathable. Moreover, it has antibacterial properties to prevent odour formation. A thermal top and leggings will work great. Such ski touring apparel can be also worn underneath a top layer, as it fits the body snugly, does not cause irritation on the skin and allows it to breathe.

Ski touring jacket - which one to choose?

First of all, a ski touring jacket should be waterproof, durable and breathable. A model with a membrane to ensure effective protection against snow and rain is definitely a good investment. It’s also best to take two outerwear pieces when heading to the mountains. In harsh weather conditions, a ski touring jacket with a hardshell membrane will work best, providing maximum protection even against heavy rain and snow. Such a garment will prove to be reliable during your hike.

A softshell jacket is yet another piece of essential ski touring equipment. It is primarily intended to protect against wind and moderate rain and snowfall. It can be worn on top or as an extra layer under a hardshell jacket. It is recommended to choose a lightweight softshell jacket that is also compact, so it will allow you to hike without any extra weight. But wait, there’s more! You can easily fold it up and stash it in your backpack.

When choosing a jacket for ski touring, pay attention to the details. A large hood, extended cuffs with a thumb hole or more zippered pockets are all features that double as extra beneficial features. They make your outerwear more functional and practical.

Which ski touring trousers will be the best choice?

Ski touring trousers should be durable, but also flexible and moisture-resistant. They can’t restrict movement or be too warm. During such exercise, the body temperature rises, so regular ski trousers won’t do in this case. Softshell trousers are an excellent solution. Styles designed for ski touring are additionally extremely lightweight, so that they can be stashed in a backpack when they are no longer needed. On the other hand, in case of adventures in adverse weather, choose ski touring trousers with a waterproof membrane that will provide effective protection even in heavy precipitation. The best ones will be lightweight, but made of durable material. Take a closer look at the practical pockets and zippers on the sides of the legs; they make it easy to control the flow of air, put the trousers over shoes or tuck them into leggings or tracksuit bottoms.

But ski touring apparel isn’t everything. Hat, gloves, and what else?

In addition to ski touring clothing, it’s worth ensuring that you’ve got proper accessories. A ski touring hat should protect against cold and wind, but cannot be too warm. A wool hat, which is both warm and breathable, is a great choice. And don't forget to protect your hands from the cold and wet. Take your ski touring gloves along. It’s best if they are made of insulating material and their effective grip part will make it easier to firmly hold your ski poles.

A properly selected ski touring outfit is necessary to fully indulge in every adventure. Build it thinking about your comfort and explore the mountains any way you like it.