Nothing can ruin a day on the slopes quicker than getting cold. Whilst on the mountain you are often skiing in the elements and the nearest shelter could be at the bottom of the valley. Therefore it is essential to wear suitable attire to maximize enjoyment and length of time on the slopes. Although warm ski trousers and jackets are vital, it is many of the ski accessories such as gloves, hats, sunglasses and socks that help you retain maximum body warmth.

Gloves
A quality pair of ski gloves is vital for any skier. Try and buy some that offer suitable thickness but also provide enough feel for your ski poles. It is paramount that your gloves are fully waterproof as once they get cold and wet it is extremely difficult to dry them out on the slopes. It is also advisable to wear a pair of inner or thermal gloves for an extra layer of insulation. Ensure they are breathable and are tight fitting. If your hands are particularly susceptible to the cold then mitts may be worth considering as they trap all the heat from your hands in one space.

Hat and Scarf
Wearing a hat and scarf can serve a dual purpose. Not only do they help retain heat but they also stop your skin from being exposed to the elements. Without these you could find yourself losing heat quicker than you can retain it.

Sunglasses
Because you ski at altitude the dangers presented from the sun are increased. For this reason alone it is always worth protecting your eyes whilst on the slopes. Sunglasses or goggles are also necessary in order to keep wind and precipitation out of the eyes. They also reduce snow glare that can prove dangerous as the sun reflects off the white landscape. Some eyewear also has colored lenses to help improve sight in poor conditions. Goggles cover more of the face and offer better protection against wind chill.

Socks
Keeping your feet warm requires a thick pair of ski socks. Invest in a quality pair of thermal socks and you will be rewarded. Ensure they are well fitted and offer some form of cushioning. It should never be necessary to wear two pairs of socks otherwise you run the risk of reducing the circulation in your feet and thus the warmth in them.

One consideration that is often missed by skiers trying to keep their feet warm is the ski boots they use. A well fitted pair of ski boots is arguably more important than the socks you wear. When buying or hiring ski boots make sure you can move your toes, if not it is almost certain that they will get cold. However well fitted boots should not allow you to move your foot side to side within the boot otherwise your ski control will be limited. For those looking for extra comfort it can also be possible to have battery operated heated footbeds inserted into your boots at a local ski shop.

Long underwear
Consider thermal underwear sets like Bodtek thermal pants and tops to provide a layer that wicks sweat away from the skin and allows you to remain warm. You want to choose a material like a polyester-spandex combination because it’s not only lightweight but also very soft on the skin. These thermals help enhance your circulation and keep you in great shape during and after skiing. They can help with muscle recovery and also reduce odor.

With these skiing equipment, accessories and clothes, you are sure to have a great skiing experience and keep you warm.