Picture this: You just woke up to the first snowfall of the season, a breathtaking sight as snowflakes gently blanket the world outside your window; snow landing softly on the ground and— sticking. YES! Your heart skips a beat with excitement– your first ski season is on the horizon and you’re itching to hit the slopes. But you have no idea what to wear skiing this year…
Your snow gear has been stashed away for months. Where the heck is it? Will everything still fit? Do you have all the basics? What about the latest and greatest ski trends?
No worries! This comprehensive guide has all the answers you need. Whether you’re new to the slopes or you have a season or two under your belt, we’ve got you covered with the hottest trends in women’s ski gear in 2023.
We’ll explore each category, from head to toe, and ensure you’re well equipped and ready for the upcoming ski season.
You’ll be safe, warm, and carving through the powder in no time!
Let’s dive into the world of women’s ski gear.
4 Factors to Consider When Buying Women’s Ski Gear
- Waterproofing
- Insulation
- Ventilaiton
- Layering
1. Waterproofing
When deciding what to wear skiing, the most important thing will be to look for gear that offers a waterproof outer coating to repel any snow and water off. The moment you get wet is when your body temperature is more likely to drop and this increases your likelihood of getting sick.
Do you remember when your mom used to yell out to you “Wear a jacket! You’re going to catch a cold!”?Mom’s always have a strong intuition. When your body gets cold, your immune system drops, increasing your chance of getting sick.
Ski gear is often made out of specialized materials such as Gore-Tex or similar high-performance fabric that can repel water in the worst conditions.
When picking out ski gear look for a waterproof rating, usually found in millimeters (mm). The higher the rating, the more waterproof your outerwear will be. I recommend a minimum of 5,000mm and at least 10,000mm for extremely wet conditions.
Investing in highly rated waterproof ski gear can make all the difference in keeping you dry and cozy on the slopes.
2. Ventilation
Skiing is an active sport, which means you’re likely going to work up a sweat when shredding down the mountain.
Ventilation is important to consider when you are deciding what to wear skiing for the first time. Proper ventilation will keep you cool when sweating and help air off perspiration.
Look for women’s ski gear that offers breathable fabric and strategic venting (such as in the armpits or down the sides) to ensure proper air circulation. A rating of 5,000g in a great place to start.
Keep in mind the more waterproof your gear is, the less breathable it can be. Finding a good balance between the two of those will make your ski trip all the more enjoyable.
3. Insulation
Nothing ruins an outdoor adventure like being so cold you can barely move. You don’t want your toes and fingers to feel like they’re falling off or to be shivering faster than you can ski downhill.
Look for women’s ski gear that offer insulating materials such as down or synthetic fibers. These fabrics provide the warmth and comfort needed to stay toasty in the chilliest of conditions, ensuring your focus remains on the thrill of the slopes rather than battling cold weather.
4. Layering
Layers. Layers. Layers.
This is the secret ingredient that will let you have your cake, and eat it too.
Your outer layer, such as your ski jacket and ski pants, is your first line of defense against the elements. But base layers and mid layers are the unsung heroes that allow you to stay comfortable during every part of your skiing adventure.
Base Layers
When choosing your base layers, prioritize moisture-wicking fabrics that will help keep sweat off your skin, preventing you from freezing as that sweat cools.
Fabrics like merino wool or synthetic blends are great for moisture wicking base layers, offering superior insulation, while still maintaining it’s breathability.
Skip cotton blends at all costs. They will stay wet for hours and never dry off.
Base layers should fit snug, but should not feel too constricting. You want to pick clothes that allow for easy movement and maximum flexibility.
Mid Layers
Mid layers can offer extra insulation while still minimizing the bulk of extra clothes. Look for mid layer fabrics such as fleece or down that offer extra warmth when needed.
Versatility is key when it comes to layering.
When choosing what to wear skiing, pick mid layers that can easily be added or removed throughout your ski trip.
When you layer effectively, you’ll be able to stay cool while charging down the mountain, stay warm while hurtling up the chair lift, and easily fine-tune your comfort levels for any après-ski activities.
Après-ski [noun]: a social activity (at a ski lodge) after a day’s skiing.
What To Wear Skiing For Beginners
I primarily ski in Idaho where the temps range from 25°F to 50°F during the winter and can even drop down into the freak teen temps. Here are the items I personally recommend when skiing to keep you warm on the slopes!
Note: At no extra cost to you, some links to purchases may earn an affiliate commission
Women’s Ski Jacket
A mid-weight ski jacket will give you unlimited possibilities. It offers ample room to layer in colder conditions, while still acting as a stand alone jacket when the weather is warm. Look for a jacket that has a balance between waterproofing and insulation to keep you both dry and warm throughout the day.
What to look for:
- Waterproof rating of +10,000mm for wet conditions
- Synthetic or down materials for insulation
- Sealed seams, waterproof zippers and zippered vents
- Pockets for storing essentials + loop designed to for a ski pass
Burton Jet Set Ski Jacket
Features:
- 100% Polyester Shell
- 100% Nylon Lining
- Machine-Washable
- DRYRIDE two-layer fabric [10,000mm/5,000g] is highly breathable, waterproof, and quick drying
- Mesh-lined sleeved vents and pit-zips add additional breathability
- Magic-stitch waist gaiter offers a jacket-to-pant zipper interface that can seal out snow
- Comes in a variety of 30+ colors
Women’s Ski Bibs and Pants
When it comes to choosing snow pants versus bibs it is entirely a preference. Some jackets, like the Burton I recommended above, offer a zipper between the jacket and pant that will help keep the snow out. Bibs can offer that same protection. I recommend bibs with a drop seat to make it easier to use the bathroom (From personal experience– having to take off your jacket and undo your bibs is annoying!)
What to look for:
- Pants or bibs that allow freedom of movement without being too baggy
- Reinforced cuffs that offer durability and adjustable waistbands for a customized fit
- Pockets needed for storing essential items
Columbia Women’s Mountain Pant 2.0
Features:
- Lined with nylon tafetta
- 100% Nylon Hydra Cloth outer shell
- Adjustable waits
- Zip-closed pockets
- Lower leg snap gusset
- Internal leg gaiter
- Multiple Colors
Burton Women’s Avalon Bibs
Features:
- Slim fit sits close to body and allows for flexibility
- DRYRIDE softshell fabric [10,000mm/5,000g]
- Highly breathable, waterproof and quick drying
- 93% Polyester, 7% Spandex and microfleece shell
- Zippered drop-seat construction
- Zip chest pocket with media port
- Fleece-lined hand warmer pockets for added storage
Women’s Ski Goggles
When deciding on what goggles to wear skiing, consider the time of day you will be going. A yellow lens will be better for low light, whereas a dark lens will be handy when it is extremely bright and the sun reflects off the snow. I recommend Smith goggles for their highly scratch resistant surface. I went through two goggles last season because they scratched too easily and it ruined the visibility.
What to look for:
- Easily interchangeable lenses (for low, medium and intense light)
- Anti-fog and anti-scratch technology
- Helmet compatibility: fit over or underneath while ensuring a snug fit to avoid moisture build up
- Tailored fit to your head and face size
Smith 4D Mag Goggles
Features:
- ChromaPop lens technology enhances color, clarity and definition
- MAG technology uses magnets for quick and easy lens changes
- Birds eye vision adds 25% field of vision to your periphery
- Designed for ultimate integration with smith helmets
- QuickFit strap adjustment system
Women’s Ski Helmet
As a fairly new skier myself, I always wear a helmet for safety. I have only fallen a couple times but the amount of skiers and snowboarders that get concussions because they weren’t wearing the proper protection is astounding. Take care of yourself!
What to look for:
- Safety standards such as ASTM or CE certifications
- Adjustable ventilation to regulate temperature and prevent overheating
- Proper helmet sizing for comfort and complete protection
Smith Code Mips® Helmet
Features:
- Lightweight construction
- Zonal KOROYD® coverage for lightweight, energy-absorbing and ventilated impact protection
- Mips® Brain Protection System
- AirEvac ventilation system integrates with smith goggles to help prevent fog
- Beanie compatible
Women’s Ski Gloves or Mittens
The question is gloves or mittens? Ski gloves are great for having the ability to grab things more tangibly, whereas mittens keep your fingers warmer for longer because they are will not be separated.
What to look for:
- Waterproof and breathable materials to keep hands dry
- Adjustable cuffs to seal out the snow and cold air
- Touchscreen compatibility for convenience of using smartphones
Burton Gore-Tex Gloves
Features:
- Removable liner for versatility and added warmth
- Screen grab PU synthetic palm for touchscreen control
- DRYRIDE two-layer shell fabric (waterproof and breathable)
- Removable wrist leash
- Windproof to keep hands warm
- Heater/vent pocket for breathability
Burton Gore-Tex Mittens
Features:
- Removable liner for versatility and added warmth
- Screen grab PU synthetic palm for touchscreen control
- Soft nose wipe on thumb
- DRYRIDE two-layer shell fabric (waterproof and breathable)
- Removable wrist leash
- Windproof to keep hands warm
- Heater/vent pocket for breathability
Women’s Base Layers
Base layers are incredible for keeping you warm on extra cold days. I will often wear thermal leggings underneath my ski bibs and a quarter zip waffle top that has omni-wicking technology to keep me dry when sweating.
There is also a trend among skiers of wearing a “ninja suit” (look for one with a drop seat) as a fantastic option to wear under ski pants. A ninja suit is an extremely thin layer that keeps you warm and is moisture wicking. Some even come with a hood that can help keep your head and neck warm underneath your helmet or beanie.
What to look for:
- Moisture management and temperature regulation
- Flexibility to remove and add layers as necessary
- Material that has moisture-wicking and thermal properties
- Thinner fabrics that won’t add bulk
Airblaster Merino Wool Ninja Suit
Features:
- 55% merino wool, 37% nylon, 8% elastic
- 4-way stretch merino fabric with Ninja Star embroidery
- Thumb loops at cuffs
- Waistband draw cord
- Trademark 350° hip zip feature® for easy-pee-zy
- *I recommend ordering 1 size up
NOOYME Thermal Underwear
Features:
- Compression fit that is snug against the body and provides muscle support
- 29% polyester, 65% nylon moisture-wicking material
- Top and bottom set
- Stretchy and breathable
- Machine washable
- *I recommend ordering 1 size up
Women’s Ski Socks
When choosing socks to wear skiing I would consider merino wool, as it is extremely moisture-wicking and can keep your toes warm inside your boots. Depending on how much room you have in your ski boots, you want to consider the thickness of your socks as well.
What to look for:
- Moisture-wicking material to keep feet dry and prevent blisters
- Cushioning and padding in socks, especially when paired with tight fitting boots
- Long socks over the calf, to avoid uncomfortable compression underneath your boot
OutdoorMaster Ski Socks
Features:
- Merino Wool blend: 30% merino wool, 35% acrylic, 20% nylon
- Over calf design for the ultimate comfortable boot fit
- Non-slip cuff ensure the sock stays up
- Itch-free blend that stays dry
- 2-pack and multiple color options
Women’s Ski Beanies or Balaclava
We love a good beanie! They keep your head warm and give your helmet a snug fit. They also have the benefit of keeping hat hair under control so you’re always ready for a photo-op!
Additionally, you can opt for a balaclava for full face coverage and enhanced protection against the elements.
What to look for:
- Choose a style that retains warmth and prevents heat loss
- Opt for moisture-wicking material to manage sweat
- Ensure the beanie or balaclava will fit comfortably underneath your helmet without causing discomfort
Columbia Whirlibird Beanie
Features:
- Whirlibird Watch Cap Beanie is ultra light and packable
- 100% acrylic, cashmere-like material that keeps you toasty
- Subtle, minimalist style
- Built to last with durable stitching
- Unisex fit
- Hand-wash only
Tough Headwear Balaclava Ski Mask
Features:
- Lightweight and breathable
- 89% Polyester and 11% Spandex moisture-wicking material
- Wear as a helmet liner, ninja hood, half ski mask, neck warmer or full face mask
- Mesh breathing panels increase airflow and minimize condensation
- Superstretch comfort fit (one size fits all)
- Hinge design allows you to easily pull down the mask
What To Wear Skiing: Optimize For Flexibility and Comfort
Choosing the right attire for skiing is essential for comfort, safety and your overall enjoyment on the slopes.
This comprehensive guide has everything you need to ensure you stay warm, dry and protected from the elements! Plus, a few extra items that have helped me optimize my skiing experience.
Don’t overlook gear such as interchangeable magnetic lenses for your goggles, ski pants and jackets with plenty of pockets, socks that stay snug on your leg or a neck gaiter to provide an extra layer of warmth.
Get ready to gear up, hit the slopes and embrace your winter wonderland with confidence and the latest women’s ski gear in 2023.
If you know someone else who needs help deciding what to wear skiing, do them a favor and send them the link to this article!
