Equipment

To fully enjoy your trip, there’s a few bits of ski wear you should take. Plus, as skiers and boarders ourselves we at Altitude Sports Tours know what it takes to give your trip the ultimate boost.

Therefore, to make your search for the perfect gear alpine smooth we’ve put together a run-through of the essential bits of kit you’ll need on your ski tour, as well as some nice to haves too!

Base Layers

To build a solid ground where your body can retain, recycle and express heat – base layers should be the first bit of cold weather clothing you look for.

Great base layers are made from synthetic or wool materials and help keep you dry and warm. Stay away from cotton though, as it’s not very breathable or waterproof.

Mid-Layers

Depending on temperature, mid-layers are ideal for added protection. Worn between the base layer and ski jacket, they help trap warm air and come in the forms of a fleece, sweater, or similar bit of apparel.

Also, it’s always best to layer up to match the climate you’re in as this will prevent you getting too hot or cold.

Ski & Snowboard Jackets

Sometimes referred to as ‘shell layers’, a good ski jacket is something you should NOT skimp on. Slope side weather can change quickly, so having well-insulated, waterproof, and windproof outer layers are essential.

Quality outerwear should be lightweight and preferably with a hood to add that extra layer of warmth when needed. These jackets should come without much padding but have great wind and waterproofing, giving you choice to change layers depending on the temperatures.

Legwear Ski & Snowboard Essentials

We find it extremely difficult to ski with cold and wet legs. So, we’ve put our faith in two legwear items, sometimes known as salopettes, guaranteed to keep those gravity defying limbs of yours warm, comfortable and ready to be the bedrock of your downhill drive.

First on are your thermal leggings, great ski pants that come in different weights and are ideal for keeping your legs warm. But don’t worry about the heavier ones, as they’re only needed on the most severely cold winter days.

Next on are the waterproof over-trousers. Typically made from the waterproof, breathable fabric Gore-tex, these should have long side zips for airing and to get them over your ski boots. Also, make sure they have Instep patches to prevent damage from sharp ski edges and that they aren’t too heavy (400-600g is a good weight).

Ski Socks

A few pairs of good socks should be enough on any trip, with a quality pair of knee-length seamless ‘loop stitch’ socks vital in that bundle of feet gloves.

However, avoid wearing multiple pairs as it increases chances of blistering and will have you noodling for the rest of your trip. We recommend looking for pairs designed for maximum movement, top-level comfort and are reminiscent to having mini radiators on your feet.

Ski Gloves

A top tip from our specialist Ski team is to favour mittens over gloves. Why? Because these hand warmers group your fingers together, which helps your digits give off and centre heat.

Also, most mittens come with wrist straps to prevent you losing them. Gloves on the other hand separate your fingers, making them more akin to human icicles than the perfect tools for gripping ski poles.

On Piste Eye Protection

Another essential? Why, it’s eye protection!

Depending on your budget, this could be specialised ski goggles or durable wraparound sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection. We recommend a reputable brand when sourcing your eye’s safeguards as these fit ideally around your helmet, which stops them sliding off when going full pelt down your next snow slide.

Ski & Snowboard Neckwear Essentials 

You’ve got base, mid and shell layers up to the neck, but there’s still a slim area of skin open to those unforgiving elements. Which is why a neck warmer is a real plus. Also, this ski wear can easily be taken off if the temperature decides to soar.

Therefore, grab yourself a snood or scarf before you ascent that incline to give yourself another excellent preventative against the cold.

Non-Skiing Shoes

When part of a Rayburn Tours organised trip, your group will be provided all the skiing and boarding purpose snow boots you ever could need. However, when getting around the resort when not on piste, a pair of warm, waterproof non-skiing shoes with a sturdy sole and good tread are ideal.

Sun Cream & Lip Balm

Due to the altitudes and sun – and especially in the late season – you can easily burn if you forgot to cover exposed skin. So, a high SPF sunscreen for your face is recommended. Plus, with colder temperatures and slope side wind chill, your lips will dry, crack and possibly blister. Therefore, a good moisturising lip balm with UV protection wouldn’t go amiss either.