Layers & Accessories
Layering for the coldest chair of the day
Base, mid and shell, plus the small pieces that make the biggest difference: socks, gloves and something for your neck.
By Rime & Ridge
Start with a base layer that moves moisture
Your base layer sits against your skin and should pull sweat away from it. Merino wool and synthetic fabrics both do this well. Skip cotton: it absorbs moisture, dries slowly and loses warmth once it's damp. A snug fit helps the base layer do its job.
Add insulation you can adjust
A mid layer such as a fleece, a light puffy or a wool sweater traps heat, and an outer shell blocks wind and snow. Layers you can add or remove are easier to manage than one heavy jacket, especially if you alternate between long lift rides and hard skiing or skinning uphill.
Cover the extremities
Wear one pair of ski-specific socks rather than doubling up, which can cramp your boots and cut circulation. Mittens are generally warmer than gloves because your fingers share heat, while gloves give more dexterity. A neck gaiter or balaclava fills the gap between your jacket and your goggles on windy chairlifts.