a guide to
essential skiing equipment
For outdoor enthusiasts, ski holidays are a perfect escape – fresh mountain air, unspoiled slopes and stunning scenery make for a wonderful getaway.
As all experienced skiers will know, the most important thing is to dress for the occasion. You can plan your resort, chalet and activities in minute detail, but if you don't have the right ski equipment with you, it can ruin your whole holiday.
A dream trip to the slopes can quickly turn into a nightmare if you have forgotten to pack basic ski essentials to ensure your comfort and safety. If you're a beginner, in particular, it can be difficult to think of everything you're going to need.
Read our handy guide on the different ski equipment required and why it's all essential to the success of every skiing experience.
Skis
When you're looking at the wide range of skis available, the first thing to consider is whether you should buy your own skis, or hire them when you get to the resort. In the end, it comes down to personal preference, how often you ski, and weighing up the benefits of buying your own skis.
Beginners' skis are usually a bit shorter, more forgiving, softer flexing and with sufficient sidecut to make turns more easily. The length of your skis depends on your weight and ability level. A good ski shop will be able to advise you if you're unsure.
Skis' safety bindings are designed to "lock" your ski boots in place, but then release should the skier fall. Make sure your bindings are set up and adjusted properly by asking the retail staff or the ski instructors at your holiday destination for help.
Ski boots
Ski boots are the most important piece of equipment, according to many skiers. They are made from a hard plastic shell lined with foam to cushion the foot. They fit snugly - more so than a pair of trainers for example. This is crucial when you're wearing them to descend a snow-covered mountain at great speed!
Everyone's feet are a different shape and size, so a good fit is vital. It's not a great idea to buy ski boots second-hand, as they will probably have moulded to the previous wearer's feet. It’s worth taking the time to ensure you select correctly fitting ski boots, as this can make a huge difference to the safety and enjoyment of your experience.
ski poles
Not all skiers like using ski poles, but they can be an invaluable aid to help with various tasks. Their main purpose is to help skiers to balance and to push yourself forward on paths. However, you can also use them to get the snow off your boots, help push yourself up after a fall and to open ski bindings.
Whether you’re a first time skier or have been heading to the slopes for years, a reliable set of ski poles is one of those items that should be in everyone’s kit.
ski & boot bags
You will need to buy a travel bag designed for skis, especially if you're jetting off for an overseas ski trip. Check your airline's policy on flying with skis before setting off. Most airlines permit soft bags, but do your research in advance, as some airlines require a certain type of ski bag.
It’s also important to have a bag for your ski boots. This will keep the boots safe and protected when not in use, ensuring they’re ready to use when needed.
backpack
A good outdoor backpack can be invaluable, particularly if you're skiing with children. Use it to carry spare gloves, extra clothing layers, snacks, water and sunscreen. Don't pack too much, however, as you don't want it to be so heavy that it affects your skiing ability. Buy a rucksack that fits securely with a waist strap.
Ideally for skiing it’s wise to invest in a backpack that’s made from lightweight yet durable fabric such as nylon. A certain level of water resistance is also useful if you’re spending time out on the mountains, while waterproof dry bags add an extra layer of protection to items inside your backpack.
ski helmet
Skiers of all ages and abilities appreciate the safety value of a ski helmet. Everyone from total beginners to seasoned pros should use this valuable addition to your skiing outfit. Protecting your brain from injury should be a priority for everyone who participates in snow sports, and helmets are compulsory on many ski slopes.
Helmets can vary greatly in price, depending on the level of protection and features they offer. However, even if you buy a top-of-the-range ski helmet, it will be no use if it doesn't fit properly. It should fit snugly without digging in or squeezing your head. When you shake your head, the helmet shouldn't move. Never buy a helmet a size too big for a child to "grow into" as this defeats the purpose of wearing it and reduces the level of protection.
The latest ski helmet technologies include MIPS (Multi Impact Protection System) which is specifically designed to protect the brain from injury, highly effective energy absorbing materials and sophisticated airflow solutions to prevent overheating.
ski goggles
When you’re heading to the mountains, it’s likely that you'll need to wear sunglasses, whether the sun is shining or not, as they will protect your eyes from the bright glare of the snow and guard against snow-blindness. When skiing, purpose-made ski goggles are a must - even more so when it's a sunny day and particularly bright.
They have the added benefit of protecting your eyes from the cold air that will otherwise blow directly into them as you ski downhill. Make sure your ski helmet is a comfortable and snug fit with your goggles. There should be no gap, or only a very tiny gap, between the two.
There are a number of options for ski goggle lenses, designed to meet a range of conditions and light levels. The good news is that lenses can usually be swapped out easily when needed, and a lot of skiers will pack several sets for a trip so that they can adapt their kit as conditions change.
ski clothing
Packing the appropriate ski clothing can make or break your trip. Never make the mistake of thinking you'll be warm in the snow while skiing because you're doing something energetic, as the temperature will still be freezing. Have you ever heard the saying, "There’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothes"?
If you’re wet and chilled to the bone, your enthusiasm for skiing may flag a little. When you're properly attired, however cold the air is, you can still enjoy yourself. While some skiers spend a lot of money on the latest technically advanced ski clothing, when you're a beginner, the best option is to have functional garments and layer up properly.
ski jacket
Ensure you stay dry and warm by investing in one of the most important layers of clothing you can buy: your waterproof and insulated ski jacket. Wearing a good quality ski jacket will reduce the health and safety risks of your body temperature dropping while skiing.
Not only will you have a more enjoyable experience, but you will also be less likely to suffer from cold-related injuries and problems, such as hypothermia, frostbite and muscle sprains and strains. A warm, waterproof ski jacket is an absolute must, no matter how brightly the sun is shining on the slopes.
salopettes
Investing in some high quality, waterproof salopettes is as important as buying a ski jacket. They are one of your staples when skiing. Salopettes is the French word for overalls. They are different from basic waterproof trousers by having braces. They are also made of top-quality, breathable fabric.
Remember, as a beginner, you might be spending a lot of time sitting down in the snow, so it pays to keep as dry as possible. The fabric must be equally breathable and waterproof to protect you from moisture and windchill.
base and mid-layers
When you're spending the day skiing, the best way to conserve heat is by wearing several thinner layers, rather than just two or three thick layers. Pro-skiers will tell you to put on some base layers and mid-layers with your ski jacket over the top. Suitable mid-layers include a fleece, sweater, or similar garment.
thermals
A thermal base layer is important to keep warm and comfortable in plunging temperatures. It helps to keep moisture away from the body so you feel drier all day long. No one wants to start feeling clammy and cold under their clothing.
A popular choice is merino wool, a breathable fabric that retains insulation even in wet, cold conditions. Merino wool has antibacterial properties, enabling you to wear the garment more than once without smelling stale. Thermals made from bamboo fibres are a modern eco-friendly trend, helping to retain the thermal energy created by the body.
ski socks
Never go skiing wearing ordinary thick socks. You need to buy purpose-made waterproof socks from a specialist ski or snowboarding shop. Unlike regular socks, ski socks are extra-insulated and made from waterproof fibres. They are also taller than regular socks, going higher up the calves.
Your socks must be a good, snug fit, as there shouldn't be any extra material causing bumps inside your boots. This can lead to rubbing and blistering after a day's skiing.
ski gloves
Wearing insulated ski gloves is a must, especially for a beginner, as you may be spending much time with your hands in the snow while learning to ski. Purchase the best quality gloves you can afford. Choose from gloves or mittens. It's all down to personal preference.
If you choose mittens, you can pop in a hand warmer on especially chilly days. Your ski gloves are among the most important items you can buy. They must be waterproof and offer enough flexibility for you to be able to hold the ski poles.
Get Equipped For Your Next Ski Trip
While you will be excited about going on a ski holiday, especially if you're quite new to the pastime, don't let inadequate planning spoil your trip. Use our handy list to make sure you have everything necessary to fully enjoy your dream skiing holiday.
While it's possible to rent some ski essentials at the resort, in the long run, it's more cost-effective to buy your own, so you can use them time and time again. This also enables you to get exactly the pieces of equipment you want, meaning you can get all the gear you need that fits and works exactly as you want it to, from the top ski brands around.