If you don’t have the right clothing, your day on the slopes will be a bust. Stay warm and safe with this complete skiing list.
Updated for 2026
When it comes to other cold-weather sports, there’s tons and tons of special clothing and gear that’s needed just to get going. Hockey gear practically needs its own room in the house. Now, what about ski gear? Even though most of the gear is rented at the mountain (including ski boots, skis, poles, and a helmet), there’s still a big list of clothing that’s needed when skiing to stay warm and safe. If you don’t know where to begin, here’s the complete list.
It really pays to get the right items. Although special clothing can add up, skiing isn’t a cheap sport, and if you don’t feel comfortable because you skipped one item from the list below and your face or hands are cold, then your whole day could be a waste (or you might end up spending much more to buy the item at the ski lodge’s shop!).
Note that I mostly included links that are relevant for boys and men, although similar items would be available for any member of the family.
Tops and Bottoms
1. Thermal Base Layer
This is the first thing that should go on, under all your clothing. Even though we call this layer “Hot Chillys” in my house, you really don’t need the brand name version to be warm. Here’s a great option for affordable thermal base layers for boys (they’re also available in 2-packs). Here’s the same thing for men. Also available for women and girls.
2. Standard Athletic Pants
Any type that he already has in his closet is fine. These will be worn over the base layer.
3. Snow Ski Pants
For the next layer, you’ll need ski pants to stay warm and dry. These pants are a comfortable option kids will really like. Read reviews to be able to best determine which size will work for your child, but leave yourself time to buy and exchange in case pants don’t fit. For teens/men, we have been going with these pants and find that they’re a great pick and value.
4. Long-Sleeved Cotton T-Shirt
Also worn over the base layer.
5. Warm Fleece Sweatshirt
6. Your Coat!
If you’re not skiing often, then you’re probably not buying a special “ski coat” and your warm puffer or parka will do. Coats that are made for skiing are actually thin while being really warm. The brand Wantdo has well-priced options for the whole family. This is an excellent pick for kids (there’s two layers and he can wear one or both, so it’s suits a wide range of temperatures). Phibee has more stylish options for kids. Here is a great basic one.
For Your Feet
7. Boots
Be prepared with a good quality snow boot. Although your foot will be in an actual ski boot when you’re skiing, if your foot gets wet when you’re walking around outdoors in the snow, it can ruin the day. Sorel boots are a great choice if you’ll be spending lots of time in the snow, and view our post with a selection of winter boots here.
8. Ski Socks
I ordered these socks and also these last year and the kids loved them so much, they wanted to keep wearing them after the ski trip was done! Ski socks are so super cozy and they help keep the foot warm. You’ll need two pairs per person (per ski day) so there’s a backup available in case one pair does get wet.
On Your Head and Hands
9. Ski Mask or Hat
The head needs a lot of protection while skiing, and that starts with the ski mask. Here’s one for kids and for grownups. Your ski mask will also cover the “hat” category. The hat that’s attached to the mask is thin enough to fit under a ski helmet.
10. Ski Goggles
Another must-have for the head. We have a bunch of these, which fit a range of sizes.
11. Glove Liners
Yes, you need two layers of gloves! Glove liners like these are a thin glove which are the base layer for your hands.
12. Gloves
Don’t just take any winter gloves from your closet. They need to be special for skiing. Your hands will get wet when you’re skiing, and if your gloves don’t resist the wet and cold, you’ll just be miserable. For value picks, these gloves are the most popular for boys and these gloves are highly rated for adults. Gloves, like boots, however, is something that’s worth investing in as when the extremities get cold or wet, your ski day is over. Hestra is the most reliable and recommended brand of gloves if you’re looking for the best. These are excellent for kids and these for adults.
13. Finally, this isn’t an article of clothing but you’ll love having Little Hotties around!
|