The 8 Best Ski Gear Items for This Winter

Be prepared for any kind of day on the mountain with Patagonia’s 3-in-1 Snowbelle Jacket (see the men's version here). This jacket can be worn as a lightweight and waterproof shell, an insulated lighter jacket, or with both zipped together to form an outer layer that will keep you warm and dry in any kind of weather. (And the inner jacket can even be reversed when worn on its own, making this more of a 4-in-1-jacket.) I tested out the Snowbelle Jacket on a ski weekend that went from warm, rainy weather to a cold powder day, and it worked wonderfully in all conditions. I also liked being able to unzip the liner and just wear that out to apres-ski instead of a heavier coat.

Julbo’s HAL helmet won’t weigh you down or make you look ridiculous on the slopes, thanks to its lightweight and non-bulky design. Made from an ultra-light EPS injection-molded shell covered in polycarbonate, the helmet has a sleek profile. The ear pads are removable for warmer days, and the visor has three ventilation channels to prevent your goggles from getting foggy.

Pair the helmet with Julbo’s new Cyrius Goggles, which perfectly integrate with the helmet for a no-gap fit. The goggles use REACTIV technology to automatically lighten or darken the lenses to match whatever the light conditions are—so you don’t have to agonize over which pair of lenses to bring with you for the day. Built-in vents on the frame prevent fogging, as does a special coating on the lenses.

Stay warm (but not sweaty) by wearing Patagonia’s Capilene Midweight Zip Neck (find the men's version here) under your ski jacket. This magical layer uses hollow-core yarns and a diamond-grid back to trap warm air and keep your body temperature up, while also wicking away moisture so you stay dry. There’s even a built-in odor control in the fabric that will let you get away with wearing this on a week-long ski vacation without washing (or offending anyone).

Layer correctly, and you can ski until last chair. Icebreaker's Merino Wool Long Sleeve Crewe is thin and warm, and features an adorable ski print across the chest that will be on-theme at apres-ski. Pair it with the coordinating leggings to stay both warm and stylish. (Click here for the men's version.)

Who says ski pants have to be bright and garish? Outdoor Research’s slim and stylish black Blackpowder II Pants (men’s version here) look good and perform even better. These pants have a Pertex Shield that makes them water- and windproof, plus a cozy fabric lining to keep your legs warm on the coldest days. Zippered outer thigh vents let in much-needed air if you work up too much of a sweat, and there are plenty of pockets to hold all your stuff. Gaiters are built in to help your pants stay in place over your boots and to keep out snow.

Socks are that piece of ski gear that you never really put any thought into—until the first time you try a pair that’s specifically designed for skiing and feel the difference. With FITS’ ski line, you can choose a sock that’s customized for the type of skiing you’ll be doing—there are different socks for black diamond experts wearing custom boots, and weekend skiers simply looking for warmth, and everything in between. All the socks are made from an insulating and moisture-wicking merino wool/nylon/spandex blend, and feature various levels of cushioning.

For apres-ski, there’s no better look (or way to cover up your helmet hair) than a cute hat. Enter Outdoor Research’s Lodgeside Beanie. This adorable cable knit beanie has a warm secret—a fleece lining and patented GORE Windstopper ear protectant that will keep your head and ears cozy (plus laser-cut ear openings that mean your hearing won’t be muffled).

Nothing can cut your day short faster than cold feet. Hot Sockees solve this problem. Made from a thin neoprene fabric, these toe warmers slide over your socks and can be worn with ski boots without hindering performance. The Hot Sockees keep your toes warm all day long by trapping in heat.

• How to Pack for a Winter Vacation
• 10 of the Warmest Winter Hats
• The 8 Warmest Winter Gloves and Mittens

Caroline Morse Teel is always on the lookout for the best new ski gear. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline for photos from the slopes and around the world. 

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.