Get Ready for Ski Season - The Ultimate Guide to Kitting Up and Where to Go

Winter’s closing in, and that means one thing - time to grab those ski boots, dig out the thermals, and start thinking about your next adventure on the slopes. Seasoned skier or total beginner, the prep is part of the thrill. Need a new ski jacket? Planning your dream trip to the mountains? This guide has you covered, ready to kickstart your winter fun.

How to Kit Up for the Ski Season

To fully enjoy your time on the slopes, having the right ski gear is crucial. Not only does it keep you warm and dry, but it also ensures you stay comfortable and safe, even in the harshest conditions.

Ski Jackets

The right ski jacket can make or break your skiing experience. Not only does it need to be functional, but it's also a major style statement.

Women's Ski Jacket: For women, a black ski jacket is a timeless and versatile choice. Black is sleek, stylish and hides any dirt or snow that might accumulate during your day on the slopes. Our Panorama ski jacket comes with plenty of essential features including an adjustable hood, breathable fabric, and excellent waterproof ratings to ensure you're comfortable no matter the weather. A good women’s ski jacket should also offer freedom of movement, so you can ski with ease.
Men's Ski Jacket: For men, a classic black ski jacket is equally stylish and functional. Whether you're heading to the Alps or staying local, it’s a wardrobe staple that suits any terrain. Opt for jackets like our Nitehawk jacket with multiple pockets to store your ski pass, gloves, and other essentials, and choose materials that offer thermal protection without adding bulk. If you want a pop of colour, a blue ski jacket for men can stand out on the snowy slopes. Whether you're skiing in low-visibility conditions or just want to add some brightness to your winter wardrobe, blue offers both practicality and style.
Children's Ski Jackets: Kids' ski jackets should be insulated, waterproof, and windproof to ensure your child stays comfortable during long days on the slopes. Bright colours and fun patterns can also help you easily spot your child in a crowded area. Check out our Laithe kids’ ski jacket which comes in different colourways to suit both boys and girls.

Ski Trousers

The right ski trousers will keep your legs warm, dry and comfortable. Like jackets, black ski trousers are a versatile option for women and men. Waterproofing is essential, as is breathability to prevent overheating when you're working up a sweat on the slopes. Look for features like reinforced knees, adjustable waists and boot gaiters to keep snow out of your boots. Check out our Vista black ski trousers for women and our Falcon men’s ski trousers – both excellent choices to keep you warm, dry and stylish on the slopes.

What Clothes to Wear Skiing

Layering is key when it comes to dressing for a day on the slopes. Here's a quick checklist to ensure you stay comfortable all day long:

Base Layers: Start with moisture-wicking thermal tops and leggings. These will keep sweat away from your body and help you stay dry.
Mid Layers: Fleece or insulated jackets work best for trapping heat. They provide warmth without too much bulk, allowing freedom of movement.
Outer Layers: Your ski jacket and trousers make up the outer layer, designed to protect you from wind, snow, and moisture. Ensure your outer layers are both waterproof and breathable to keep you dry.
Accessories: Don’t forget items like ski gloves, goggles, a helmet and thick ski socks. These extras can make a big difference in comfort and safety.
Kids’ Ski Clothes: In addition to jackets, make sure your child has layers like thermal base layers, insulated mid-layers, and ski trousers to keep them warm. Don’t forget accessories like ski socks, gloves, and of course a helmet!

What to Pack for Skiing

Packing for a ski trip can feel overwhelming, but making a checklist will ensure you don’t forget anything important. Here are some essentials to include in your suitcase:

Ski Jacket & Trousers: Prioritise waterproof and insulated outerwear.
Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermals to stay warm and dry.
Mid Layers: Fleece tops or wool sweaters for insulation.
Ski Gloves: Waterproof, insulated gloves are essential for keeping hands warm.
Neck Warmer or Buff: Protects your neck and face from cold wind.
Goggles & Helmet: Skiing goggles with UV protection are a must, and a helmet is vital for safety.
Sunscreen & Lip Balm: The sun’s reflection off the snow can cause sunburn, even in winter. This Blistex lip balm with spf 50 will protect your lips from the winter sun.

Where to Go Skiing: Top UK and Overseas Destinations

Once you've got your ski gear sorted, it’s time to decide where to hit the slopes. While most people think of skiing as a winter activity, there are some places where you can ski as early as October.

Where Can I Ski in October?

If you can’t wait until winter to get started, here are a few great options for early-season skiing:

Tignes, France: Tignes is a popular destination for early-season skiing, with glacier skiing available from October. The high altitude ensures good snow conditions, making it a favourite for skiers eager to start the season early.
Hintertux Glacier, Austria: Open year-round, Hintertux is a fantastic option for skiing in October. The glacier boasts over 60km of ski runs, making it one of the best early-season destinations in Europe.
Zermatt, Switzerland: Zermatt is another prime location for October skiing, thanks to its glacier. The high-altitude skiing offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and excellent snow conditions.

Top Ski Resorts in the UK

If you’re staying closer to home this season, the UK has some excellent ski resorts to pick from:

Glenshee, Scotland: Glenshee is the largest ski area in the UK, boasting 36 runs across four mountains. It’s a great option for skiers of all levels, with plenty of space to explore.
Cairngorm Mountain, Scotland: One of Scotland's most famous ski resorts, Cairngorm offers breathtaking scenery and a range of slopes for all skill levels. The funicular railway makes it easy to access the slopes even in poor weather conditions.
Snozone, Yorkshire: If you're looking for a more accessible option, The Snozone in Yorkshire is Europe’s largest indoor real snow centre. Located at the Xscape Centre, Snozone offers a wide range of activities for all the family and for all levels of ability, from complete beginners to seasoned pros.

Ready, Steady, Ski

As the ski season approaches, now is the perfect time to kit up and start planning your trip. Whether you're looking for a classic black ski jacket for women or insulated kids’ ski clothes for the little ones, having the right gear means a comfortable and safe experience on the slopes.

From skiing in the UK’s beautiful Highlands to exploring Europe’s early-season resorts, there are endless options for a fantastic ski season. So, get your gear sorted, pack your bags, and get ready for the thrill of carving your way down some of the world’s most stunning slopes.

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