What should you think about when you go skiing for the first time?

What clothing do you need for winter sports?

Layers, layers and more layers. Even during your winter sports holiday in the mountains, the layering principle is your go-to when it comes to clothing choices. It is cold in the snow, but exertion or a nice sunshine can also warm you up quickly. Wearing multiple thick, woollen jumpers is therefore not a good idea. Dress according to the 3-layer system:

Layer 1: Start with a base layer of merino wool or thermal underwear. This layer will keep you warm, but will also allow excess heat and moisture to escape. 

Layer 2: As an intermediate layer, wear a thin ski sweater or skipully. Is it really cold? Then choose two garments for this layer. 

Layer 3: For the outer layer, choose a waterproof winter sports jacket and ski or snowboard trousers.

Do you get too hot? Then easily take off a layer. This will keep you well insulated, but not overheated. 

Tip: Do not wear a cotton base layer. This absorbs moisture instead of wicking it away.

Summary: What do you need in terms of clothing and equipment?

• Your 3-layer system
• A well-fitting ski helmet. The ski helmet is common on the slopes these days. When buying a ski helmet, pay close attention to the size. The ski helmet should be tight enough; if your head hangs upside down (without the chin strap), the helmet will still hang. But it should be loose enough so that you don't feel any pressure.
• Matching ski goggles. When it comes to ski goggles, it is important that they fit snugly to your face and ski helmet, and that they cannot shift.
• Warm and supportive ski socks
• Insulated and waterproof winter sports gloves or mittens
• Possibly a buff or scarf
• Ski poles
• Ski boots in your size
• The right skis. For this, it is important that your ski bindings are properly adjusted.
• Other protection: e.g. a back protector. Safety first!

Rent or buy winter sports equipment?

If you are going on a winter sports trip for the first time, you don't know if this is something for you yet . Therefore, it is not practical to spend a lot of money on new clothes and materials right away. You can also rent skis, sticks and shoes at your destination. The advantage of this is that if you get the wrong model, you can simply go back to the rental to test a new pair. Of course, gloves, a helmet and socks are nice to buy. You can borrow a jacket and trousers from someone. Are you sure there will be more holidays to come? Then we definitely recommend investing in good clothing of your own.

Tip: Keep in mind that when you rent equipment on location, everyone probably has the same kind of skis. There is a possibility that someone, accidentally, takes your skis. To avoid this, swap one ski with someone you are with and put them together as a set. After all, no one takes two skis that don't belong together!