Clothing

 
 

Alpine weather is unpredictable, and a fine sunny day can quickly deteriorate into cold, wet, high wind or blizzard conditions.

Most of us like to picture ourselves enjoying the snowfields in sunshine and we do have our share of sunny days in Australia. However, alpine weather is unpredictable, and a fine sunny day can quickly deteriorate into cold, wet, high wind or blizzard conditions. Your clothing, therefore, must be versatile and you should have ready access to protective clothing.

Clothing

Clothing can be divided into two types: insulating layers and the outer layer.

Insulating Layers

In cold weather insulating layers are the most important layers. Several thin layers that trap air and are made of material that will stay warm, even when wet, are better than a couple of thick bulky layers. The number of insulating layers you wear depends on the weather and the activity you are participating in.

Wearing thermal underwear will also help insulate you against the cold. Wool is a good natural fibre and manufactured fibres such as polypropylene and fibre pile are also effective. Cotton undergarments perform poorly in cold and wet conditions.

Outer Layer

Staying dry and reducing the effects of wind chill are important. As such, your jacket and overpants should be waterproof and windproof. The outer layer also helps to insulate by trapping warm air next to the body. If you don’t have your own windproof and waterproof outer clothing you can hire these from most ski hire outlets.

It is important to wear a warm hat or helmet as significant body heat is lost from the head. Woollen or synthetic socks and gloves or mittens should also be worn. On wet days, large rubber dishwashing gloves worn over the top of your gloves help to keep hands warm and dry.

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Before buying clothing, seek expert advice and remember that showerproof is not the same as waterproof.
Never wear jeans or cotton/vinyl gloves as these do not give adequate protection against wind, rain or snow.

Children’s Clothing

Skis, snowboards, boots and bindings can be bought new or second hand but should be specifically made for children, not adapted for them. Equipment should be properly fitted by a reputable ski shop where the proper ski binding settings can be adjusted.

Warm, protective clothing should always be worn by children. The use of a helmet is recommended and may be mandatory at some resorts to take lessons. The advice regarding layers and materials referred to earlier applies even more so to children.

Make sure your child is able to be seen by ensuring they wear high visibility clothing bright colours and/or reflective materials.

Having a name tag in an obvious place (with ski lodge or home address and contact phone number) can help the Ski Patrol locate you should your child become lost or injured.

Alpine Skiing Equipment & Clothing

Alpine ski clothing and equipment is specialised. Before purchasing equipment and clothing, ensure that it is suitable for your needs. Consult your local professional ski retailer who can advise you on the best equipment to meet your requirements. If possible, consider hiring the same equipment before purchasing.

 If you have your own equipment, always have it checked and serviced regularly by a reputable ski or board technician before riding lifts.

Ski Touring & Bushwalking Clothing

The right clothing ensures your comfort and therefore your enjoyment of any ski tour or bushwalk. Cotton or nylon clothing is not suitable for snow conditions as these materials are poor insulators when wet. Do not wear jeans.

What to wear or carry:

  • Clothing made of wool, or synthetic fibres that have insulating properties similar to wool such as fibre pile.

  • A number of layers of thin clothing, rather than a few layers of thick clothing.

  • A woollen beanie and gloves or mittens.

  • A helmet if alpine ski touring.

  • Warm underclothing, eg polypropylene thermals.

  • Warm outer clothing, eg polypropylene or woollen jumpers.

  • Woollen socks.

  • Waterproof over mitts and overpants.

  • Footwear with soles that have substantial grip.

  • Goggles and/or sunglasses.

  • Gaiters.

  • Long waterproof and windproof jacket.

  • Spare clothing if staying overnight.

* Important: Your snowboard boots and snowboard must be fitted by a professional