Basic Essentials for the Slopes

By Iseult Devlin

Accessories are a great way to liven up an older outfit and they go a long way in helping you enjoy your day on the slopes. For instance, fingers and toes are usually the first area of your body to get cold, so keeping your extremities warm and cozy is crucial. From eyewear to headwear to handwear, there are lots of great looks for winter fun.

Hats, helmets and headbands: First, you should always wear something on your head unless it is super-warm. Since more than 60 percent of your body's heat can escape from an uncovered head, it’s real important to wear a hat, headband or helmet when it's cold.

And, the latest headwear styles are so cool, you can wear them when you’re inside as well as out on the slopes. 
Look for non-itch liners. Helmets are even warmer and protect your head. On super-cold days, facemasks can guard against frostbite and neck gaiters keep wind from sneaking down your neck.

Sunglasses and goggles: Sunglasses and goggles protect eyes from damaging solar radiation. Snow, or any other reflective surface, makes UV rays stronger, while increased altitude also magnifies the danger.

Panoptx glasses feature technology that lets you adapt eyewear to suit the occasion. For instance, there is a removable eyecup in one model which provides a seal to completely block wind. On warmer days, it can be taken out.
Goggles do double-duty and keep out wind and on flat- or low-light days—especially when it's snowing. Goggles protect your eyes and special lens colors increase the contrast so you can properly discern terrain features—especially on low-light days when it’s snowing.

Gloves and mittens: Most gloves and mittens use waterproof, breathable fabrics, but shop around because some are better than others. Leather options are great for comfort, but they will get wet on rainy or wet-snow days. Mittens, in general, are warmer than gloves, especially if they are filled with down or Primaloft.

Consider the type of activity you'll be doing. Snowboarding gloves and mittens often have a reinforced palm because of extra wear from adjusting bindings and balancing on the snow. Some snowboarding gloves and mittens also have built-in wrist guards, which are excellent for novice snowboarders. Cross-country skiing gloves tend to be lighter-weight for extra movement and because you perspire more.

Socks: One pair of lightweight or medium-weight socks works best for skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing. Socks are made from a variety of materials, including polyester, silk, wool and nylon. Some socks have wicking properties similar to long underwear, meaning your feet will stay dry and comfortable. Resist the temptation of putting on too many pairs of socks. You'll restrict circulation and actually cause your feet to get colder.

Click below to read about specific accessory examples that provide a greater degree of protection and comfort.

► Accessory Examples