What to Wear Skiing (UK Guide): Ski Jackets and Goggles for Him, Her and Kids

Getting dressed for skiing isn't like getting dressed for a cold day in the UK. You'll be hot when you're moving, cold on the chairlift, and you'll probably fall in the snow at least once. The secret is layers, and a jacket that keeps the snow and wind out.

Below we explain what to wear from top to toe, and pick four items from Ellis Brigham, one of the UK's best-known ski and mountain shops: a men's jacket, a women's jacket, a kids' jacket and a pair of goggles.

Ways to save at Ellis Brigham

• Check the sale. Two of our four picks are reduced right now
• Buy early in the season, before popular sizes sell out
• See today's offers at Ellis Brigham

The four picks side by side

What to wear skiing, from top to toe

• Base layer. A thin top and leggings in merino wool or a synthetic fabric. They move sweat away from your skin. Avoid cotton, which stays wet and makes you cold.
• Mid layer. A fleece or light insulated jacket. Take it off on warm days, and add it when it's cold.
• Ski jacket. Waterproof and windproof. A shell jacket needs warm layers underneath. An insulated jacket is warmer on its own.
• Ski trousers. Waterproof trousers or salopettes. Never ski in jeans.
• Ski socks. One pair of proper ski socks, not two pairs of normal socks, which can cause blisters.
• Gloves or mittens. Waterproof. Mittens are warmer, gloves are easier to use.
• Helmet and goggles. A helmet is strongly recommended for everyone, and goggles protect your eyes from wind, snow and bright sun.
• Neck warmer. Keeps your face warm on cold chairlifts.

What to look for in a ski jacket

• Waterproof rating. 10,000mm is fine for most holidays. 20,000mm is better for wet snow and long days.
• Breathability. A breathable jacket lets sweat out, so you stay dry inside when you're working hard.
• Vents. Zips under the arms, called pit zips, let you cool down quickly.
• Powder skirt. An elastic band inside the jacket stops snow going up your back when you fall.
• Pockets. A lift-pass pocket on the sleeve and a goggle pocket inside are very handy.
• Hood. A hood that fits over a helmet is useful in bad weather.

What do customers say about Ellis Brigham?

Ellis Brigham scores 4.6 out of 5 from more than 17,700 reviews on Trustpilot. Buyers often praise the expert staff, fast delivery and good advice on fit. The few complaints are mostly about delivery delays and returns.

So, which should you buy?

Go for the Picture Object Jacket if you're a man who wants a warm, very waterproof jacket at a sale price.

Go for The North Face Slaydee if you're a woman who wants a warm, insulated jacket with all the useful features.

Go for The North Face Freedom for children who need to stay warm and dry all day in ski school.

Go for the Oakley Line Miner L goggles for clear, wide vision. At this sale price, they're great value.

Not quite right? See all ski clothing at Ellis Brigham

Common questions

Can I wear normal winter clothes for skiing?

For a base or mid layer, yes, a thermal top or fleece works well. But your jacket and trousers should be waterproof. A normal winter coat or jeans will get wet quickly.

Should I buy or rent ski clothes?

Skis, boots and helmets are easy to rent at the resort. Clothes and goggles usually aren't, so most people buy them. A good jacket can last for many seasons.

Do I need goggles or are sunglasses enough?

Goggles are better. They keep out wind and snow, and they fit with a helmet. Sunglasses are fine on warm, sunny days, but they can fall off when you fall.

How many layers should I wear skiing?

Usually three: a base layer, a mid layer and a jacket. On warm spring days, you might skip the mid layer. On very cold days, add a second mid layer.

What should kids wear skiing?

The same layers as adults: a base layer, a fleece, a waterproof jacket and trousers, mittens, a helmet and goggles. Kids get cold quickly, so an insulated jacket is a good idea.

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