Ski Clothing Tips

Many people whose main hobby is skiing may lament that it is far more difficult to choose the right ski clothing than they thought. Consisting of two main components (a ski jacket and ski pants), ski clothing includes many features you have to consider: weather conditions, your skiing skills, your budget, and of course, your color and style preferences. These and other aspects of choosing ski clothing correctly are disclosed below.

Ski Clothing Tips

Looking for a Suitable Ski Jacket

Indeed, a ski jacket is a major part of your ski clothing, and it is highly important to pick a suitable one for you in order to ensure your safe and comfortable skiing. The following advices can be useful for snowboarders too (since the clothing is generally the same).

In the first place, you must check how waterproof is your jacket and ensure its breathability; a ski jacket can be either water resistant (which is also called snowproof) or waterproof. A water resistant ski jacket may be a good choice in case if weather conditions allow you, since it is much less expensive option than a waterproof one. Such jackets feature repellent finish that allows either water or rain to slither from the surface. Indeed, it is adequate ski clothing for skiing in favorable weather conditions (for example, in case you are a beginner), yet it will not help you during snowstorms or heavy rains.

Waterproof ski jackets are typically made of waterproof textile along with taped seams. Of course, the majority of professionals and passionate skiers use such ski jackets for their tough rides. Besides, the waterproofness of fabric can be measured: water resistant jackets rated from 0 up to 1,500 millimeters are generally acceptable for dry conditions, waterproof ski jackets for snowfalls and average rains are estimated to be from 1,500 up to 5,000 mm, and at last, highly waterproof jackets which can stand even heavy rains are typically from 5,000 up to 10,000 mm.

Regarding breath-ability, it is not that important in skiing indeed. A more breathable jacket will let you get rid of sweating easier, which can be important for many passionate skiers. Such jackets are made of special fabric that allows the moisture to escape your ski jacket, and so the chances that you may get a cold are much lower. Yet, pay proper attention to the rest of your clothes: don't wear cotton clothes (otherwise a breathable jacket will not help).

Moreover, you have to choose the type of your ski jacket depending on what skiing type you prefer (downhill, back country, or cross country). For cross country skiing, you will need a highly breathable softshell jacket; while shell ski jackets, down jackets, or insulated ski jackets will be suitable for downhill skiing. Lightweight shell or down jackets are appropriate for back country skiing.

In addition, you may look for a jacket with special features you are interested in, like a hood, cuffs, ventilation zips, or storm flaps.

What about Ski Pants?

Even though a jacket is often considered as the most important part, you can't downplay the importance of right ski pants that will cope with the task of keeping you dry and comfortable.

Waterproof of ski pants is also rated in millimeters, which is typically between 5,000 and 20,000 mm. You have to check seam taping of the chosen pants - that also influences the waterproof. Respectively with the gain in waterproof, the price of ski pants will also increase.

Warmth of ski pants is another aspect to consider. Some people do not need very warm ones, while other skiers need pants with low-profile synthetic insulation that brings extra warmth. You may consult a seller or consultant in order to choose suitable pants.

After all, do not forget about the style: it is totally up to you, and you should choose exactly the type of ski clothing you prefer. Yes, you need to spend a bulk of time on picking the right ski clothing, but then you are able to enjoy your favorite hobby greatly once you have done it!