Ski clothing

When temperatures plummet and the peaks are cloaked in a blanket of white, the call of the slopes becomes irresistible for many skiers. However, to fully enjoy the pleasures of skiing, it's essential to be properly equipped. This guide will help you choose the right skiwear for your specific needs as an advanced athlete, focusing on performance, comfort and durability. See our other ski equipment.

1. Understanding the specific needs of the advanced skier

As an advanced skier, your clothing must meet several essential criteria to enhance your experience on the slopes. Performance is your priority: you need clothing that not only protects you from cold and wet, but also promotes optimum freedom of movement. It's also imperative that your clothing can withstand the wear and tear associated with intensive practice and sometimes extreme conditions.

a. Thermal insulation

Insulation is essential. It must be effective without compromising the breathability of the fabric. Modern technologies such as PrimaLoft or Thinsulate offer excellent insulation while being lightweight and space-saving. Choose the insulation best suited to your activity: heavier and warmer for downhill skiing, or lighter and more breathable for ski touring where physical activity is more intense.

b. Waterproofing and breathability

A good ski suit should be waterproof to keep you dry. The minimum recommended standard is 10,000 mm on the Schmerber scale, but an advanced skier will benefit from opting for garments offering up to 20,000 mm or more. Breathability is also crucial, especially during exertion: look for breathability values of at least 10,000 g/m²/24 h to avoid sweat accumulation inside the garment.

c. Durability and protection

Fabrics must be robust to resist snags and abrasion. Reinforcements in critical areas such as knees, lower back and ankles are sensible additions. Also consider wind protection, which can greatly affect your thermal comfort at altitude.

2. Key elements of ski clothing

a. The ski jacket

The jacket is your first line of defense against the elements. Choose a jacket with a hood that is compatible with helmets.
Adjustable ventilation systems, such as underarm zips, and a removable or integrated snow skirt are essential.
Pockets should be accessible even with a backpack, and secure enough to hold your valuables.

b. Ski pants

Pants must offer good insulation, and be equipped with either suspenders or an adjustable waistband to ensure a perfect fit.
As with the jacket, you need to pay particular attention to reinforcements in areas exposed to rubbing and falls.
Also make sure that the bottom of the pants is compatible with your boots.

c. Base and intermediate layers

Don't forget that these layers play a crucial role in your overall comfort.
They should be made of moisture-wicking materials such as merino wool or specialized synthetic fibers.
Mid-layers should balance warmth & breathability while remaining flexible so as not to impede your movements when unzipping.

3. Practical buying & care tips

a.Try before you buy

Always remember that it's best to try before you buy!
It would be ideal to try these garments on in a similar posture to when you'll be on skis, to check that they don't restrict your mobility during this intense sporting activity!

b.Proper care

Of course, don't forget to wash!
Scrupulously follow all washing instructions provided by the manufacturer to preserve the technical properties of the products you've purchased! Avoid conventional fabric softeners in favor of special detergents designed specifically for technical fabrics.