There are definitely perks to a day on the slopes – the rush of wind through your face, the feeling of accomplishment when you finish a challenging run, the stories shared as you zip back up the lift… all of which can be quickly ruined when you haven’t dressed properly.
Here’s a list of tips to keep you warm enough to play all day.
Opt For Mittens. Keeping your fingers together keeps them warmer, whereas gloves allow for more surface area on your fingers to become exposed to cold. Some may find that mittens don’t allow for as much dexterity for some activities, so there’s always the option of Glittens! More on the gloves vs. mittens debate from REI, here.
Pre-Warm Your Boots, Socks, and Gloves. It’s habit sometimes to just throw your boots in the back of the car without thinking of it, but it could really benefit your toes to keep boots where the heat is running! You can also place hand warmers in your boots, and keep your gloves in your jacket before you don them for the day.
Give Yourself Plenty of Fuel. Keep your body’s furnace burning hot with plenty of calories. Make sure you factor in the extra exercise so you can load up on the right amount of food for your needs. Also make sure to stay hydrated! Your body’s working hard to stay warm and ski hard, so make sure you’re giving it what it needs to run effectively.
Carry Spares. You might find that you start getting kinda sweaty after a while, so maybe you’ll need a thinner hat or mitten. Keep spares in your coat to prevent excess perspiration (which, if you get too cold again, can contribute to hypothermia).
Layer Appropriately. A base layer can help trap heat close to you, and an exterior waterproof layer can keep the wet cold off of you. Having a few layers can help keep you prepared for fluctuating temperatures throughout the day. Here’s a great blog on layering for beginners!
The Right Socks Can Change Your Day. Resist the urge to wear multiple pairs of socks. This could end up working against you, causing circulation problems or blisters. Try wool (or Smart Wool) and remember that more is not necessarily better! Here’s a list of the top ski socks from Ski Magazine if you’re in the market.
It’s actually a myth that we lose most of our body heat through our heads, but that doesn’t mean you should skip a good stocking cap! And remember to wear sunblock and goggles. With these tips in mind, we hope you have a blast on your ski trip.
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We hope to see you soon! If you are planning your ski adventure in Colorado, click here take a peek at our 140+ modern vacation rentals in Winter Park .
