Ski Clothing

Ski clothes are different from other cold weather gear, like offshore sailing gear or a regular winter parka, in that they’re built to handle the specific conditions of skiing – its level of breathability, waterproofness, insulation and durability are all carefully balanced to match your activity and level of intensity on or off the slopes.

While a parka is great for sub-zero temperatures, it would quickly make you too sweaty during more intense skiing, and it lacks the mobility needed for performance on the mountain. And while ski clothing is waterproof to handle wet snow days, it doesn’t need to be as waterproof as a sailing suit designed to handle downpours and sudden waves crashing against you on the water. In short, breathability and mobility are prioritized when making ski clothing.

Ski clothes are not simply ski clothes. Waterproofness, breathability, insulation, and durability are all carefully balanced to match your activity and level of intensity. Are you spending time between runs on ski lifts in sub-zero temperatures? Or ski touring in the backcountry, working up a sweat on the ascent and brushing past branches on your descent? Details such as powder skirts, RECCO transponders, insulation for warmth, and vents to cool you down are all thoughtfully included – or not – depending on where and how you ski.

If you’re skiing the resort you’ll want a warmer jacket for those chilly lift rides between runs; for trekking up the backcountry you’ll want breathable ski gear to avoid getting clammy as you sweat; and for freeriding you’ll want mobility, durability and features designed for deep powder.