Ski Gear! Help!! - YouLookFab Forum

Category

Urgent

Welcome! Read about what to wear and how to wear it on the YLF Blog. Join the YLF Forum to ask specific questions or just chat about fashion and personal style. Or check out the curated list of things we love in YLF Finds.

Outfits Ensembles Trends Advice

Ski Gear! Help!!

MsMary

Veteran

I know I have been scarce around here lately, but I am coming back begging for shopping help! New Guy has invited me for a ski weekend over Valentine's Day, and I will be taking skiing lessons and have nothing to wear! I know I need ski pants, under layers, and a jacket, but there are so many choices that my head is spinning. I don't want to spend a ton of money but I also don't want to cheap out and get something that won't serve me well.

I'm looking at these pants: http://www.sportsauthority.com.....016&c

When it comes to jackets, there are so many choices I am just overwhelmed. I am willing to spend up to $200 for something fabulous, although of course I would prefer to spend less. I went to Sierra Trading Post and 6 p.m. and couldn't make head nor tail of the zillions of choices. Can anybody help me narrow it down, or just pick out a jacket for me? Bonus if you can help me find one in a petite size.

Thanks in advance!! (Pic: How I imagine I will look after two days of lessons. )

This post has 1 photo. Photos uploaded by this member are only visible to other logged in members.

If you aren't a member, but would like to participate, please consider signing up. It only takes a minute and we'd love to have you.

Urgent

32 replies

Latest reply was from annagybe

annagybe

(website)

Veteran

http://www.columbia.com/womens.....#038;dwvar
http://www.columbia.com/womens.....s&
Cheap pants are probably not worth it, because you will spend a lot of time on your rear
http://www.columbia.com/womens.....038;dwvar_
A lot of people use Columbia up here and it's not expensive

ETA REI has a bunch of North Face pants on clearance from previous seasons, although slightly goofy colors. I've had my North Face pants for 5 years.

http://www.rei.com/product/887.....4-closeout

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

THERE YOU ARE. Miss you.

I echo Anna's suggestions. We went through this about ten years ago, and shopped at Columbia and Rei for snow boarding gear.

You need inner thermals and outer shells. I needed thermal layers, fleece and two outer layers because I run very cold. I kept the outer jacket layers short and bright. You need great gloves and socks. Very important.

I am assuming you will hire the ski boots and skis.

MsMary

Veteran

Thank you, thank you! Anna, you are a life-saver!! I ordered the jacket Whirlybird jacket in purple -- looks great! The pants are sold out in my size so I will keep looking. Any specific suggestions re: gloves and socks?

TraceyLiz65

(website)

Veteran

No advice but just wanted to say how exciting... Have a wonderful time!

catgirl

Veteran

Athleta has adorable flared leg ski pants - I have a pair. They come short enough for us. I'm in a 6P so I have room to layer a silk legging underneath.

http://athleta.gap.com/browse/.....=709910002

Sold out online - maybe in a store?

http://athleta.gap.com/browse/.....38;sfvid=3

Or should I mail you mine to borrow for the weekend? Srsly. When is your trip? There is no ski weather here right now.

Elizabeth P

Veteran

Socks... wool. You should be able to find good ones at any outdoor store. And gloves need to be mittens Warm and waterproof. This has to be the most important item you'll get. And if you can't find any, you may be able to get some at the hill.

Also worth getting some handwarmers - little packages of chemicles you scrunch up and they get hot for a few hours. Worth having in your pocket.

I've managed to ski very comfortably in just fleece leggings/pants and goretex rain pants. Just an option, if you can't find ski pants.

catgirl

Veteran

Oh, I see Valentine's Day. Let me know - not sure I'll be able to get to PO before I leave tomorrow but could try.

annagybe

(website)

Veteran

I used to wear Smart Wool, but my local ski shop turned me on to Bridgedale. I find Smart Wool too thick and then makes your boots too tight leading to foot numbness. Ski boots a very well insulated so you won't get as cold like regular boots. You do need specific ski socks due to engineered padding and different stretch points. Ski boots put your feet and ankles in a very different position.
http://www.sierratradingpost.c.....le~b~2257/

As far as gloves, are there any stores at all in your local area. I feel like I need to try them on in person. Look for Gore-tex or something similar for waterproof. I like ones with gauntlets to cover the gap with your jacket. Snowboarding gloves work quite well. The ones I like are unfortunately closer to $100 ish.
Good gloves are very important as if your hands are cold and wet you'll be miserable. Though in a pinch you can use those chemical hand warmers.
For long underwear I like Patagonia capilene, you don't need the thickest. I prefer zip-neck tees. Also a fleece neck warmer helps, as sometimes jacket necks chafe

ETA I think these would be fine

http://www.columbia.com/womens.....nColor=010

Suz

(website)

Veteran

So exciting. Whee!!!! I am more a skating and cross-country girl so I will leave the advice to others, but I will say that REI is likely a good bet. I get my thermal layers from MEC (a similar store in Canada) as well as from our local Trailhead (a great outdoor shop).

ClaraT

Veteran

My tip: I love wearing presentable leggings under my ski pants. It provides an extra layer of warmth and comfort and I can wear them around the cabin as well. (Athleta chataranga are my faves: http://athleta.gap.com/browse/.....;sdReferer
Thin ski socks from Bridgewell are great (See anna's post). Goggles will make you a lot more comfortable (or wear sunglasses but use a cord to keep them from flying off). A helmet (you can rent one) is advised--many years ago I was concussed by an out of control skiier and have worn one every since (plus they add warmth). Have fun.

lisaflex

Veteran

Burton brand ski socks are the best!!!my kids and dh swear by smart wool..... warm and dry tootsies.
base layer - either north face or orvis has some silk long underwear not as warm as northface. i am not a fan of under armour bottoms but love the tops that are turtleneck - not too high though. super warm! my coat is north face also. do NOT buy cheapy ski pants you will regret it. buy good ones ie spyder, northface, burton....you wanna be warm and not get wet. have a great time. where will you be skiing? you also want warm gloves - bring some hand warmers too! the kiddos love those too.....

sarah

Veteran

Mary, will your ski rental come with a helmet? If not, you'll want to rent a helmet, and wear or rent googles or "gear sunglasses". I have a pair of Tifosi's - a bit more reasonably priced than some of the other brands. http://www.rei.com/search?quer.....zJTI2cmVtb

In lots of snow, goggles are nice. Under your goggles, a thin-ish balaclava or hat works well. Of course, you may luck out and have hot, spring-ski weather in the Sierra, in which case you may be ok with just your helmet.

http://www.rei.com/search?quer.....ccessories

Have a wonderful time!

lisaflex

Veteran

also - if super cold get a skull cap for under helmet

sarah

Veteran

I think you need this for Valentine's Day, don't you?

http://athleta.gap.com/browse/.....=930278032

or this:

http://athleta.gap.com/browse/.....=930279012

these are available in petite:

http://athleta.gap.com/browse/.....=243163022

AM

Veteran

Exciting weekend to be a snow bunny! Do you see yourself in neutrals (black, white, gray) or going for some color (and which color)?

I like this royal look.

This post has 1 photo. Photos uploaded by this member are only visible to other logged in members.

If you aren't a member, but would like to participate, please consider signing up. It only takes a minute and we'd love to have you.

Runcarla

Veteran

Some of your fitness gear might cross over, or not. My winter running gear did double duty under my snow-boarding gear - fleece lined running tights, turtleneck, fleece top, winter weight wool socks. It was non-binding and lighter under all the padding of the snow suit, and had the benefit of being designed to wick away sweat.

As a newbie (taking lessons, etc.) you will work very hard - much harder than someone with some experience. As such, you will generate a lot of heat and get very warm - even work up a sweat, no matter how cold it is. This will alternate with cold rides up lifts, and some waiting around.

Whatever you do, WEAR A HELMET! It has the added benefit of keeping your head warm (and you can wear it when you go PLONK! after getting a KILLER from Angie!)

Goggles and good mitts are de rigeur.

You are going to have so much fun!

sarah

Veteran

Don't forget your sunscreen for your exposed bits! (your nose and lips)

MsMary

Veteran

Wow, I knew you ladies would be able to help me out!

Una, those ski pants are too cute! Thanks for the offer but I think I'm covered -- turns out I was able to find the pants to match the jacket Anna picked out for me (which I ordered in the purple plaid), on sale at Amazon with Prime delivery. So I will be the purplest ski bunny on the slopes! LOL

http://www.columbia.com/womens....._S_variati

http://www.amazon.com/gp/produ.....#038;psc=1

Thanks for the link the the socks, Anna! I've ordered a few pair!

We have several good sporting goods stores around here so I will shop in person for gloves and goggles. And yes, definitely renting a helmet!

I'm getting very excited!

Anonymous

It is amazing how much gear you need to ski. I ditto the remark about wearing less under your jacket. About the only time you feel cold is when you are on the lift. Don't know where you are planning on skiing so don't know how cold it will be. That would help determine what base layers you would want to wear under your ski gear. I always opted for synthetic over wool and depending on the temps you could go, lightweight, medium, or heavy.

For ski pants and jacket - I go for Gortex material (I always preferred thinner and not bulky, easier to move around. You definitely want windproof and again depending on where you are going, waterproof. You want a jacket that will zip around your neck, with a hood.

As for socks, I always wore 2 pair - silk and then a woolen over it. Since you will probably be renting, may I recommend a thicker wool sock. You want that ski boot to fit snuggly around your foot.

Like Runcarla said, as a beginner you will be working hard. They will teach you how to walk up the hill in skis, how to fall, and how to get up. You will definitely get a workout! Hope you have fun!

jackiec

Veteran

Oh so fun!!! Sounds like you've already been given plenty of great advice. I need to wear lots of layers b/c I get sooooo cold on the lifts. Can't wait to hear all about your trip. You'll have tons of fun

lisaflex

Veteran

dont forget to apply hand lotion before putting on gloves.
use vaseline to protect lips.

Joyce B

Veteran

Get a good face mask and don't forget to apply sunscreen and the thickest and best face cream that you can find. The wind and cold air will dry out your skin in seconds.
Good to have in the pockets of your jacket: chapstick, tissues, a bar of dark chocolate to re-energize while on short breaks.
A walkie talkie is a good thing to have since most of the time there is no cell phone connecticity or it is spotty at best on the mountain. Some ski resorts rent them but not all.
The hand warmer and feet warmer packets are very helpful, too.
Also, before you go out you need to have a good breakfast, a light one will not hold you through a ski adventure.
Have fun!

L'Abeille

Veteran

Get silk glove liners. Best thing I ever did. No matter how much you your hands sweat during the workout and adrenaline portions of your day, the glove liners and thus your hands will stay nice and dry. Also hands won't freeze when you take off the outer gloves to fiddle with something.

Glad you heeded Anna re the specialty padded socks. Ski boots will rub painfully hard against your shin bone. Smearing a rich moisturizer or even lanolin on legs before you dress can minimize the chafing.

Great idea to start with lessons. You are going to have a ball!

MsMary

Veteran

Wow! I knew YLF would come through for me! I can't thank you all enough, especially Anna for finding me my jacket right out of the gate!!

I will definitely post a WIW and report back on the whole adventure! And keep those suggestions and tips coming!

Gaylene

Veteran

Anna and Una have good advice on gear. Pick your inner layers depending on the temperature--don't assume that it will be frigid. Avoid cotton next to your skin--once it gets damp, you'll get really cold--wicking fabrics like wool and synthetics keep you dry and warm. Thinner layers can be warmer than thick ones because heat gets trapped in the dead air space and keeps you warm so make sure your fingers and toes have lots of wiggle room and don't touch the ends of your boots or gloves.

And, just because no one else has mentioned it, plan a smashing après ski outfit for post-ski activities. You'll look healthy and carefree from a day on the slopes so make up isn't that important, but you'll want to feel cosy and comfortable--AND look cute because, after all, it is Valentine's Day.

Inge

(website)

I've no experience with ski gear, but just wanted to wish you a marvelously fun weekend with New Guy, Mary!!

frannieb

Veteran

How fun - big ski family here - My daughter is on ski team and pretty good. All the above advice is solid. definitely wear a helmet - most crashes are not from you but someone running into you. Light socks are best in boots you want air if your socks are to thick your feet will be cold. I personally cannot ski with gloves my hands get to cold - I wear cheap $3 target gloves layered under a pair of mid priced mittens and works like a charm for me and as warm as some of the most expensive gloves and mittens i have purchased. My daughter also uses this combo and has never needed hand warmers even on some wicked negative something days at races.
Also I prefer icebreaker over smartwool and yes you absolutely want a neck gator/face mask the chairlift can get wicked cold.
Good sunglasses - I wouldn't worry about googles until you get more into skiing.
So much fun and jealous.

harmonica

Veteran

Exciting & fun! I think you're well sorted and will be the FABest skier! <p/>Personally I love several thin layers of wool or wool/silk. The layers insulate and you could easily remove a layer or two if needed and still stay warm. I love wool/silk fibres because they breath better than synthetics (personal preference, though) and keep you warm even if you get wet ( or when in the lift and you are sweaty. I.e. if you get sweaty, then stand still for a while, you could turn cold due to sweat turning into damp stealing your body heat. Wool keeps you warm no matter) But it depends on the temp. The difference between -5Celsius and -25 Celsius is huge. Wind and humidity also make milder temp (like -5 Celsius) feel far colder.<p/>Have fun and keep us updated!

Jeanie

Veteran

Not sure if this was mentioned but you might need a Turtle which is just a ver short scarf with the ends connected. Regular scarves are not allowed on ski lifts. Sounds like a romantic getaway...hee hee! Have fun!

12