No surprise here, bring clothes that will keep you warm and dry. We do not recommend cotton clothing (jeans and a sweatshirt) as an inner or outer layer. Cotton easily becomes wet. You will end up cold, wet and miserable.

Layer Up – The best way to dress for winter is to wear layers. This gives you the flexibility to add or remove layers, depending on the weather and your level of activity. Avoid cotton next to your skin, it will absorb sweat and make you cold. Synthetic or wool base layers help to wick moisture away from your skin. It is better to be warm than cold, you can always shed a layer.

Socks – One pair of light or medium weight only! No Cotton! Socks made of polyester, silk, wool, or nylon are preferred. Thick socks or multiple layers of socks, get uncomfortable, give you blisters, and reduce circulation: all of which lead to cold feet. Ski and snowboard boots are designed to be warm so do not wear more than one pair of socks. Resist that temptation!

Hat – 60 % of body heat is lost through the head. If your head is warm, the rest of your body is likely to stay warm.

Gloves – Gloves or mitten should be water proof. Mittens are often better for those susceptible to cold hands.

Outer Layer – You probably have a winter jacket already. Again it should be water resistant. Water resistant pants are very important. Your first day will introduce your butt to the snow, so keep it dry and warm.

You may not need as many layers of clothing as you think. On a sunny day, you may only need two layers; the waterproof outer layer and the synthetic (turtleneck/long underwear) wicking layer. But bring a middle layer (fleece or wool sweater) just in case. You can always take off a layer as you get warmer. In general, the three main layers are:

  1. Wicking layer next to skin usually consisting of long underwear. Look for thermal underwear made of a synthetic (usually polyester). Such material will wick (move) moisture away from your skin and pass it through the fabric so it will evaporate. This keeps you warm, dry and comfortable. Wicking layer should fit snug but not tight.
  2. Insulating layer (middle layer that keep cold out). This middle layer includes sweaters, sweatshirts, vests, and pullovers. This layer keeps the cold out and the heat in. Comfort is the key, it should be loose enough to trap air, but not so bulky that it restrict movement.
  3. Weather protection layer – exterior layer guarding you against the winter elements. It should repel water from the snow and block the wind. Again, avoid cotton as it will absorb moisture from the snow and make you cold. This layer should fit comfortably, offering maximum range of motion.