How to Keep Warm Skiing

Nothing can ruin a day on the slopes quicker thanmore of the face and offer better protection against
getting cold. Whilst on the mountain you are oftenwind chill.
skiing in the elements and the nearest shelter couldSocksKeeping your feet warm requires a thick pair of
be at the bottom of the valley. Therefore it isski socks. Invest in a quality pair of thermal socks
essential to wear suitable attire to maximiseand you will be rewarded. Ensure they are well fitted
enjoyment and length of time on the slopes.and offer some form of cushioning. It should never
Although warm ski trousers and jackets are vital, it isbe necessary to wear two pairs of socks otherwise
many of the ski accessories such as gloves, hats,you run the risk of reducing the circulation in your
sunglasses and socks that help you retain maximumfeet and thus the warmth in them.
body warmth.One consideration that is often missed by skiers
Glovestrying to keep their feet warm is the ski boots they
A quality pair of ski gloves is vital for any skier. Tryuse. A well fitted pair of ski boots is arguably more
and buy some that offer suitable thickness but alsoimportant than the socks you wear. When buying or
provide enough feel for your ski poles. It ishiring ski boots make sure you can move your toes,
paramount that your gloves are fully waterproof asif not it is almost certain that they will get cold.
once they get cold and wet it is extremely difficultHowever well fitted boots should not allow you to
to dry them out on the slopes. It is also advisable tomove your foot side to side within the boot
wear a pair of inner or thermal gloves for an extraotherwise your ski control will be limited. For those
layer of insulation. Ensure they are breathable and arelooking for extra comfort it can also be possible to
tight fitting. If you're hands are particularly susceptiblehave battery operated heated footbeds inserted into
to the cold then mitts may be worth considering asyour boots at a local ski shop.
they trap all the heat from your hands in one space.Base layer
Hat and ScarfTechnology has moved on considerably since the
Wearing a hat and scarf can serve a dual purpose.days of woollen thermal tops and long johns. The
Not only do they help retain heat but they also stopintroduction of the base layer has provided skiers
your skin from being exposed to the elements.with a more comfortable and lightweight alternative.
Without these you could find yourself loosing heatBase layers serve two purposes. Not only do they
quicker than you can retain it.keep you warm but they also help to keep you dry.
SunglassesThe compression fit helps to direct blood flow to
Because you ski at altitude the dangers presentedmuscle groups during exercise thus maintaining
from the sun are increased. For this reason alone it issufficient body warmth.
always worth protecting your eyes whilst on theEven though conditions are generally cold when you
slopes. Sunglasses [ or goggles are also necessary inare skiing, the physical nature of the sport will result
order to keep wind and precipitation out of the eyes.in you perspiring. Wearing a base layer will help to
They also reduce snow glare that can provedisperse the perspiration quicker as the moisture is
dangerous as the sun reflects off the whiteremoved to the outer layer of the garment away
landscape. Some eyewear also has coloured lenses tofrom your skin so it can evaporate quicker.
help improve sight in poor conditions. Goggles cover