Men's winter sports clothing
A men's ski outfit rarely consists of a single piece: you need a breathable base layer, an insulating layer, and protection against snow and wind. This page links to each element, from technical underwear to jackets and trousers, including down jackets and fleeces.
From base layer to outer shell: men's ski wear
Each piece of clothing serves a specific purpose. The base layer wicks away sweat to keep you dry. The fleece or lightweight down jacket traps warmth. The jacket and trousers provide protection against wind, snow, and falls. This logic applies on-piste as well as off-piste, with only the heat insulation varying.
Winter wardrobe essentials
For the outdoors, check out ski jackets and ski trousers, or ski suits for a single garment. For warmth, down jackets and fleece jackets. Next to the skin, technical base layers.
On-piste, off-piste or resort: adjusting the layering
On-piste, where you alternate between lifts and runs, an insulated jacket simplifies things. Off-piste or while ski touring, the effort is more intense: a lightweight shell and a warm layer to remove are more practical. At the resort, a down jacket and ski trousers are sufficient for sledging or a walk.
The brands that dress skiers
Helly Hansen covers the entire outfit, from jackets to trousers. La Sportiva offers down jackets and mountain gear, Peak Mountain has ski down jackets and softshells. Spyder, Dare 2B, and Whistler complete the range with piste jackets and trousers.
The rest of the gear and good deals
For your head and hands, check out accessories, for your feet shoes, and for sliding equipment. Women's clothing and children's clothing dress the rest of the family. Discounts are available on winter sports clearance.
Building your outfit over the winters
There's no need to buy everything in one year. Start with a good quality jacket and trousers, which form the foundation and last a long time. Then add technical base layers, which are compact and easy to stock up for a week of skiing. The warm layer comes third: a fleece if you get warm quickly, a lightweight down jacket if you feel the cold. Ski suits, which are more specialized, mainly interest fans of deep snow. Choose matching colours to mix and match the pieces: each purchase then complements the last, and the outfit remains consistent from season to season.
Frequently asked questions
How many layers should I wear to ski?
Generally three: a base layer, a warm layer, and the jacket. In mild weather, the middle layer can stay in the chalet.
Fleece or down jacket under the ski jacket?
The fleece breathes better during exertion, while the lightweight down jacket is warmer when at rest. Compare on men's fleece jackets.
What is a technical base layer for?
It moves moisture away from your skin to avoid getting cold when you stop. Models are available on men's base layers.
Is the men's ski suit still worn?
Yes, especially by skiers who love powder, as it keeps snow out at the waist.
Where can I find inexpensive men's ski clothing?
Reduced price men's jackets and trousers can be found at winter sports sales.
