What to pack for a ski trip this winter
Dressing for ski season has always leaned more into practicalities than aesthetics. No matter what time of year you head to the mountains, conditions are extreme, and when there’s nothing between you and potential frostbite other than a padded jacket and some gloves, you’ll want to know you're wearing the right kit. Technical fabrics, thermo-regulating base layers, 100 per cent UV lenses – the defence is in the details. Lifelong skiers may remember trips to C&A for block colour jackets and oddly stretch-less ski socks.
Thankfully, times have changed, and there’s never been a better time for style aficionados to get into snow mode as more fashion brands are giving their take on winter wardrobes. From fashion-forward Alpine labels such as Perfect Moment and Goldbergh to heavy-weight designers Louis Vuitton and Dior releasing snow capsules and even a debut ski collection from Balenciaga – now is the time to refresh your ski essentials. We’ve got your ski packing list covered.
The ski jacket
Don’t skimp when it comes to the ski jacket. This is the first piece of kit you’ll need, and the one that needs to do all the hard work to keep you both warm and dry. Look for one with a technical fabric - meaning a purpose-designed, speciality material that has been treated to withstand weather conditions, i.e. to stay dry, and keep in the heat whilst still being breathable. Louis Vuitton has a great lightweight version as part of its Ski capsule collection. It’s designed to be worn by itself or layered over padded iterations for more extreme temperatures. Swedish label Montec is great for affordable ski wear with hardworking fabrics.
The ski pants
The options when it comes to ski trousers or salopettes are twofold: choose either bib style, dungaree trousers, or more fitted low-rise ski trousers. Traditional salopettes can offer more protection and warmth, while the more form-fitting styles are perhaps more flexible, so it's truly a matter of preference. But like all ski kits, the fit is key, so try them on with your boots beforehand, if possible, or at least be sure the length is correct and they are loose enough for your layers underneath.
The ski suit
A great trend in recent years is the statement ski suit – as fun, colourful, and smile-inducing as you like. A ski suit is a great one to throw on without too much thought, just be sure to wear a decent set of thermals underneath so you can de-garb come lunch time. You’ll also want to pack at least two so one can dry out each day. Bonus - this is a great option if you’re travelling in a big group as you’ll be very easy to spot on the slopes.
A matching set
This is one for the ski girlies – for full-throttle fashion, look for a printed set such as this floral and pineapple design from holiday label favourite Farm Rio. Or invest in Balenciaga’s first collection of ski wear with this flag-bright red matching set with an hourglass cut jacket.
The down jacket
One to wear off the slopes, a padded down jacket is as stylish as it is practical. Look got cropped shapes that offer a flattering silhouette. Some brands have started to experiment with the down options, too, including Pangaia, who recently released a collection of men's and women's down jackets made from wildflowers.
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The ski goggles
A good pair of goggles can last a lifetime, so it is a great investment for any ski and snow career. Oakley’s Line Miller goggles are a classic for a reason – one of the first wide goggle styles for maximum visibility. Izipizi is the go-to for fun styles in bright colours.
Top tip: take your helmet with you to try on goggles so you can make sure they fit within the frame.
The ski helmet
Many slopes around the world now have mandatory ski helmet requirements, so getting the right one is essential. If it’s your first trip or you don’t have much storage between trips, why not rent one? Ski specialist rental site Blanqo has a range from POC that are available to rent for your trip.
The hat
The old wives' tales are true – you really do lose most heat through your head, so wrap up warm whether you’re on the piste or stopping for a hot chocolate. Patagonia makes great quality outdoor accessories, or indulge in some serious luxury with this hooded scarf in Fair Isle cashmere from Loro Piana.
The knit
Embrace your surroundings and lean into the alpine lifestyle with a trad knit - fun, retro logos and designs that will keep you warm as well as stylish. We love the Dioralps capsule from Dior, with its clever technical cashmere and chic sporty styles. Boss and Perfect Moment have teamed up for a collection of sleek and witty slogan sweaters.
The layers
Be sure to pack a wardrobe of layering tops (vest, t-shirt, long sleeve top, knit, fleece, jacket, etc) – but don’t forget to layer up your bottom half as well. Opt for base layers which can be worn under your ski suit – especially useful if you want to strip off your salopettes and jacket come lunchtime – as well as for lounging around aprés ski. Lots of brands offer matching base layers for the chicest Alpin look.
The ski gloves
Gloves are another crucial part of any ski and snow outfit. Pack a selection of gloves and mittens so you can rotate them depending on the conditions – mittens are great when it’s really icy, plus you can stuff them with hand warmers. Also worth packing are a thinner, knitted glove to wear underneath your waterproof versions, and a smart pair to wear in the evenings if you’re heading out for dinner or drinks.
The ski socks
Trust us on this one – you’re going to want to pack socks. Lots of socks. Depending on the time of year, a good rule of thumb is two pairs – one everyday trainer sock (over the ankle), with one thicker/warmer ski sock that sits higher than your boot. You’re going to also want some warm socks for the chalet in the evening or to wear at night, such as a cosy alpaca bed sock.
Top tip: for really icy conditions, put hand warmers in the tip of your boot to keep your toes warm.
The snow boots
A pair of boots with rubber soles and good traction is necessary, but that doesn’t mean swapping fashion for functionality. Moon Boots will see you through the colder months and can be styled day-to-day while also keeping your feet warm and dry in deep snow. Or go for Inuiki’s iconic snow boots which look just as chic with knit dresses in the city as salopettes on the slopes.
The slippers
For the plane or train journey there and for plodding about the hotel, a pair of cosy slippers with good tread make for the perfect off-duty shoe.
The backpack
Even though you’ll be wearing the majority of your ski essentials, backpacks are a very handy accessory – extra gloves, a change of sunglasses, hats, passes, cameras, snacks, a bottle of water – it all adds up (and bulks up). Choose something streamlined that won’t interfere with your skiing ergonomics. Osprey makes backpacks designed for skiers that fit closely against the body, or choose something really discrete, such as a cross-body pack from athleisure hero label Onitsuka Tiger.
Retractable lanyard
This might seem niche but this will become the most trusty part of your ski outfit once you realise how handy it is having your lift pass so readily available.
The beauty balms
The cold temperatures mixed with closer proximity to the sun as well as ice-laced winds means your skin and lips can suffer on the slopes. Be sure to pack a balm in stick form with a mitten-proof cap opening and add SPF like this one by Ultrasun. La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baum is a great multi-repairing balm for healing and soothing cracked, chapped dry and irritated skin and a key piece of armour in your ski-trip beauty kit.
