How to dress for skiing: the complete guide to staying warm on the slopes

Introduction

In the mountains, the human body faces a complex thermal equation. Between temperatures that drop by 6°C for every 1,000 meters of altitude, the icy wind on the chairlift, and the intense physical effort that generates perspiration, your clothing must cope with conflicting constraints. Poorly designed clothing traps moisture against the skin, causing rapid cooling as soon as you stop exercising and turning your day of skiing into a test of endurance against the cold. Every winter, thousands of skiers fail not because of a lack of motivation, but because of a lack of proper clothing.

At G-Heat, our French expertise in active thermoregulation is based on a simple belief: thermal comfort is not a luxury, it is a prerequisite for performance and enjoyment on the slopes. This comprehensive guide provides you with essential technical advice to understand the layering system, choose the right materials, and protect every part of your body from the elements. The goal: to help you maintain your body's equilibrium from the first chairlift to the last run.

The 3-layer system: the basis of your thermal protection when skiing

Understanding the principle of layering

The 3-layer system is the most effective technical solution to temperature variations encountered when skiing. Its principle is based on physiological logic: the body sweats during exercise, then cools down quickly when at rest—especially when riding the chairlift.

Rather than wearing a single thick garment, layering three garments with distinct functions allows moisture to be wicked away, heat to be retained, and protection against wind and snow. This system also offers valuable adaptability: you can remove or add a layer depending on the intensity of the activity and the weather conditions on the day.

• Layer 1 (base): wicks away perspiration, direct contact with the skin
• Layer 2 (mid): thermal insulation, retains body heat
• Layer 3 (outer): protection from wind, snow, and water

The first layer: wicks away moisture to keep you dry

The first layer is undoubtedly the most underestimated, yet the most crucial. In direct contact with the skin, this technical underwear must wick moisture produced by perspiration away to the upper layers.

If this function fails, moisture remains trapped against the body, and cooling accelerates dangerously as soon as the effort decreases. For absolute thermal comfort, we recommend our Top Cozy and Legging Cozy set.

Designed to be like a warm second skin, they combine the softness of a breathable fabric with active thermoregulation technology, ensuring you stay dry and warm, even on the most intense days.

The second layer: insulate and retain body heat

The middle layer acts as thermal insulation. Its purpose is to trap the warm air produced by the body in its fibers while allowing moisture to escape through the first layer.

Combining style and technical performance, our heated sweatshirts are the ideal solution for après-ski or milder days. On the slopes, for enhanced insulation without compromising your freedom of movement, the Essential down jacket fits perfectly under a protective jacket.

Thanks to its eco-designed battery and slim design, it provides targeted active heat that allows you to adjust your temperature according to the intensity of your effort.

• Fleece: quick-drying, versatile, good insulation/breathability ratio
• Down: maximum insulation for its weight, ideal in cold and dry conditions
• Synthetic: retains its properties even when wet, dries faster than down

Gloves or mittens: protect your hands from extreme cold

Hands are among the extremities most vulnerable to cold. Through vasoconstriction, the body prioritizes reducing blood flow to the fingers to protect its vital organs. For demanding skiers facing difficult conditions, EVO-3 gloves offer the ultimate in protection: reinforced leather, active heating to the fingertips, and long battery life.

If you're looking for a more versatile option for alternating between skiing and resort activities, Nordics gloves are an excellent alternative, combining flexibility and thermal performance. For very cold days, adding thin undergloves creates an essential extra layer of air.

Hat, balaclava, or helmet: thermal protection for the head

The head dissipates a significant amount of body heat, especially as this area is exposed to the wind on the slopes. Ski helmets, which have become essential for safety, also provide good thermal insulation.

To maximize your protection, slip a heated neck warmer under your jacket. It effectively protects the sensitive cervical area and can be pulled up to cover your face on icy ski lifts, creating an impenetrable barrier against the wind.

Ski socks: the importance of good foot thermoregulation

Ski socks are an often overlooked item that directly affects the comfort of your feet—which are compressed in stiff ski boots all day long.

Forget about layering pairs that cut off circulation: opt for a single pair of Outdoor V2 heated socks.

Specially reinforced at the shin and heel, they provide gentle warmth that promotes blood circulation and prevents numbness in the toes, transforming your skiing experience, even in sub-zero temperatures.

"The classic trap when skiing is to confuse thickness with insulation. Clothing that is too thick will make you sweat on the first run and freeze on the chairlift. The key to thermoregulation is the breathability of the first layer: it must act as a convector that wicks away moisture before it cools the skin."

— Gwenaël Fournet, Product Expert at G-Heat

Essential technical materials for your ski outfit

Waterproof-breathable membranes: Gore-Tex and alternatives

The waterproofness of ski clothing is measured in Schmerber (mm of water column). For regular use, aim for a minimum of 10,000 mm—extreme conditions require 20,000 mm or more. Breathability, expressed in g/m²/24h (MVTR), determines the fabric's ability to wick away perspiration.

Gore-Tex remains the market benchmark thanks to its microporous membrane that blocks liquid water molecules while allowing vapor to pass through. There are credible alternatives—Dermizax, eVent, proprietary membranes—each with a specific positioning between waterproofing and breathability.

• Minimum recommended waterproofing: 10,000 mm for downhill skiing
• Target breathability: 15,000 g/m²/24h minimum for sports
• Sealed seams: check that all seams are heat-sealed

Merino wool vs. synthetic: which material for which layer?

The choice between merino wool and synthetic fibers depends on your activity and your priorities. Merino wool naturally regulates body temperature thanks to its complex fiber structure: it insulates in cold weather, wicks away moisture, and remains effective for several days without developing odors.

Synthetics (polyester, polyamide) dry faster and offer better mechanical resistance—an advantage for skiers who sweat profusely during intense exercise. Both options are valid for base layers. For mid layers, synthetics retain the advantage in wet conditions.

• Merino wool: natural thermoregulation, anti-odor, prolonged comfort over several days
• Synthetic: quick drying, abrasion resistance, often more affordable
• Hybrid: some manufacturers combine merino and synthetic to take advantage of both materials

Reinforcements and durability technologies for long-lasting equipment

Technical ski equipment is an investment. Its durability depends on strategic reinforcements and specific treatments. Areas subject to abrasion—knees, buttocks, shoulders—benefit from Cordura fabrics or ripstop reinforcements. Water-repellent treatments (DWR) applied to the surface prevent water from saturating the outer layer. These treatments wear off with washing and need to be reactivated regularly. Also consider waterproof YKK zippers and reinforced seams, which determine the longevity of each garment when faced with the mechanical stresses of skiing.

Must-see: how does heated clothing work?

Ski jacket and pants: choosing the right outer layer

Technical criteria to check: waterproofing and breathability

Before buying your ski jacket or pants, there are two technical indicators that deserve your attention. Waterproofing (in mm Schmerber) ensures that water—slush, rain, powder snow—does not penetrate the fabric. Breathability ensures that perspiration generated during exercise is wicked away to the outside without saturating the layering system. An imbalance between these two parameters compromises your overall protection: if your clothing is too waterproof without being breathable, you will overheat; if it is too breathable without being waterproof, snow will soak through your clothing.

The importance of fit and freedom of movement

Skiing requires a full range of motion: bending your legs, rotating your torso, extending your arms. A cut that is too tight compresses the lower layers and reduces their insulating power (trapped air is the basis of insulation). A cut that is too loose allows cold air and snow to seep in. The ideal outfit offers a compromise: fitted enough to avoid catching the wind on the slopes, loose enough to layer your clothes without restriction. Always check your freedom of movement by simulating a skiing position (bending, arms forward) when trying on clothes.

Classic pants or bib pants: pros and cons

Classic ski pants remain the most popular choice due to their versatility and ease of use. Bib pants (or pants with suspenders) offer superior protection for the back and stomach against snow infiltration, which is particularly useful in powder snow or when falling frequently. They also keep the core body warm by adding an extra layer to the torso. On the other hand, bathroom breaks can be more complicated. For skiers in cold conditions or freeriders, overalls provide significant protection against the elements.

Details that make the difference: ventilation, pockets, snow skirt

Technical details distinguish high-performance ski clothing from generic products. Zippered ventilation under the arms (jacket) or on the thighs (pants) allows you to quickly regulate your temperature without removing layers—an important advantage for staying comfortable during periods of intense effort. The internal snow skirt (waist skirt for the jacket, integrated gaiters for the pants) prevents snow from getting under your clothes when you fall. Waterproof pockets protect your ski pass and phone from moisture.

Essential accessories for complete protection

Gloves or mittens: protect your hands from extreme cold

Hands are among the extremities most vulnerable to cold. Through vasoconstriction, the body prioritizes reducing blood flow to the fingers in order to protect vital organs. Technical ski gloves with reinforced insulation and a waterproof membrane are your first line of defense. Mittens offer superior warmth because the fingers share their heat energy, but they reduce dexterity. For very cold days, adding thin silk or synthetic undergloves creates an extra layer of air. G-Heat offers heated gloves with carbon filaments that actively compensate for heat loss from the extremities and maintain dexterity even in sub-zero temperatures.

• Gloves: better dexterity, suitable for moderate conditions
• Mittens: maximum warmth, recommended for extreme cold
• Undergloves: extra layer of protection, also handy for using your phone

Hat, balaclava, or helmet: thermal protection for the head

The head dissipates a significant amount of body heat, especially since this area is exposed to the wind on the slopes. Ski helmets, which have become essential for safety, also provide good thermal insulation. A thin hat worn under the helmet improves comfort without compromising the fit. On cold days, a neck warmer or balaclava provides additional protection for the face and neck—areas where thin skin cools quickly. Make sure your ski helmet has adjustable vents to release excess heat when the temperature rises.

Ski socks: the importance of good foot temperature regulation

Ski socks are an often overlooked item that directly affects the comfort of your feet — which are compressed in stiff ski boots all day long. Choose specific ski socks that are medium-thick, made of merino wool or synthetic fibers, with reinforced shins and heels. Wear only one pair: contrary to popular belief, wearing two pairs compresses the foot, reduces blood circulation, and accelerates cooling. Ski boots must be precisely adjusted to avoid pressure points that exacerbate the feeling of cold.

Goggles and sunglasses: protect your eyes and face

At high altitudes, UV radiation is 10 to 12% more intense for every 1,000 meters. The sun's reflection on the snow amplifies this exposure. Ski goggles with an S3 or S4 protection rating are essential for protecting your eyes and the sensitive skin on your face. Goggles offer better coverage than traditional glasses: they protect against wind, cold, and snow spray. Choose a model that is compatible with your helmet and has effective anti-fog treatment to maintain clear vision in all conditions.

"Protecting your extremities is not just a matter of comfort, it's a matter of safety. When your hands or feet become numb, your responsiveness decreases and the risk of accidents increases. Our technology aims to maintain alertness by removing the mental burden of the cold so that skiers can stay focused on their trajectory."

— Édouard Castaignet, CEO and co-founder of G-Heat

Adapt to weather conditions and your activity

Extreme cold and high altitude: enhance your protection

When temperatures drop below -15°C or altitude exceeds 2,500 meters, the rules change. The body expends more energy to maintain its core temperature, and the extremities (hands, feet, face) quickly enter the danger zone. Enhance your second layer with more effective insulation. Double the protection for your extremities: wear undergloves under mittens, a full balaclava, and thick technical socks. It is in these conditions that active thermoregulation solutions, such as G-Heat heating devices, prove their worth by compensating for the body's natural heat loss and allowing you to ski longer without compromising your safety.

Spring skiing: lighten up without compromising safety

Spring skiing is characterized by significant temperature variations: bitter cold in the morning, warm temperatures in the afternoon under the sun. The third waterproof layer remains essential—spring snow, which is wet and heavy, quickly soaks through clothing. Lighten the middle layer by replacing the thick fleece with a microfleece or light jacket. Remember to bring a backpack to store the layers you remove during the day. Sun protection (S3-S4 category goggles, SPF50 sunscreen) becomes a priority because the sun is particularly intense at high altitudes in spring.

Adapt your clothing to the intensity of your physical activity

A beginner skier walking slowly between lessons and the chairlift does not have the same thermal needs as a ski tourer climbing uphill. Intense effort generates considerable heat and perspiration. If your activity involves periods of sustained effort, opt for a highly breathable base layer and generous ventilation in the third layer. For more static winter sports (observation, beginners, long breaks), increase insulation. This is where the 3-layer system comes into its own: it allows you to adjust your equipment in real time, without ever wearing too much or too little.

⚙️ R&D point: At G-Heat, we have observed that the critical area of heat loss when skiing is between periods of exertion and static phases—typically when riding the chairlift. Our actively regulated underwear is designed to limit excessive cooling during these transitions, maintaining constant warmth without overheating during exertion.

Après-ski: extending thermal comfort off the slopes

Appropriate recovery clothing

After a day of skiing, your body needs to quickly regain its thermal balance. Remove your damp technical clothing as soon as possible and put on dry, warm clothes. Insulated après-ski shoes (such as fur-lined boots or technical slippers) allow your feet—which have been compressed and cooled in your ski boots—to warm up gradually. G-Heat offers solutions designed for this recovery phase, such as heated slippers that help restore blood circulation in the extremities that have been strained during exercise.

How to properly dry and maintain your equipment

Properly maintained equipment retains its technical properties over time. After each day of skiing, dry your gloves, socks, and underwear in a ventilated area, never directly on a radiator (excessive heat degrades technical fibers and membranes). Ski boots benefit from an electric boot dryer that removes moisture without damaging the shells. Wash your technical clothing at a maximum temperature of 30°C with a suitable detergent, without fabric softener — the latter clogs the pores of breathable membranes and reduces their effectiveness.

Mistakes to avoid to preserve your technical clothing

Several common mistakes prematurely reduce the life of your equipment. Tumble dryers damage waterproof membranes and technical fibers—avoid them at all costs. Storing compressed clothing in a bag for several months crushes the filling (down or synthetic) and reduces its insulating power: hang them on hangers. Regularly reactivate the DWR water-repellent treatment on your ski jacket and pants using specific products (spray or wash). If your clothing has G-Heat heating elements, remove the batteries before washing and store them at 40-50% charge.

G-Heat: thermal engineering at the service of your skiing experience

French expertise in active thermoregulation

G-Heat was born out of an observation in the field: passive insulation solutions are not always sufficient to protect the body in the most demanding conditions. Our approach is based on active thermoregulation—devices that provide or regulate heat according to the user's actual needs. Each product is developed in France, tested in real-world conditions (mountains, construction sites, roads) and designed to last. Our range covers all of a skier's thermal needs: from technical underwear to heated gloves and protective accessories for the extremities.

Innovative heating technologies for extreme conditions

G-Heat heating devices use carbon filaments powered by high-performance Li-Po batteries (partnership with VoltR, French Tech). The system diffuses active, adjustable heat at three intensity levels, allowing the user to adapt their protection to the conditions encountered. G-Heat heated gloves are particularly useful for skiing: they compensate for the natural vasoconstriction of the extremities by maintaining constant heat right down to the fingertips. The result: you retain your dexterity and comfort thanks to intuitive use, even on the coldest days in the mountains.

• Battery life: up to 8 hours depending on the intensity level selected
• 3 heat settings: real-time adaptation to weather conditions
• 3-layer system compatibility: G-Heat products can be worn as a first or second layer without compromising layering

Expert guidance to help you choose the ideal equipment

Choosing the right thermal equipment for skiing requires taking into account your practice, your sensitivity to the cold, and the conditions you face. The G-Heat team supports each user in this process. Whether you are a casual skier looking for the right performance/budget ratio or a committed high-mountain practitioner, our experts will guide you towards the right solution. As Édouard Castaignet, founder of G-Heat, sums it up: “Our goal is not to sell as many products as possible, but to offer equipment that will allow everyone to continue skiing in the best conditions.”

Conclusion

Dressing properly for skiing is based on specific technical principles. The 3-layer system—a breathable base layer, an insulating mid layer, and a waterproof outer layer—is your basic protection against the cold and wet in the mountains.

The choice of materials (merino wool, synthetic fibers, Gore-Tex membranes), the quality of your ski jacket and pants, and the protection of your extremities with suitable accessories determine your comfort throughout the day. Remember to adapt your outfit to the conditions: layer up in very cold weather, lighten up in spring, and maintain your equipment to preserve its technical properties season after season.

At G-Heat, we develop active thermoregulation solutions that complement this system by helping the body maintain its thermal balance, even in the most extreme conditions. Our heated gloves, technical underwear, and heated accessories are designed to fit naturally into your ski outfit and allow you to ski longer, with greater comfort and safety. Ready to tackle your next ski trip with thermal protection that matches your ambitions?

FAQ

How long do G-Heat heated garments last for a day of skiing?

G-Heat Li-Po batteries offer up to 7 hours of battery life on the lowest heat setting and approximately 3 hours on the highest setting. For a full day of skiing, we recommend using the medium setting continuously and switching to the highest setting during static phases (chairlift, breaks). A spare battery allows you to cover the longest days without interruption.

How should I care for my technical thermal underwear after skiing?

Wash your technical underwear at a maximum temperature of 30°C with a mild detergent and without fabric softener. Fabric softener clogs the fibers and reduces their ability to wick away moisture. Air dry, never tumble dry. Merino wool requires less frequent washing thanks to its natural anti-odor properties—simply air drying between ski days is usually sufficient.

At what temperature should you consider wearing heated clothing?

The answer depends on your individual sensitivity to the cold and your activity level. As a general rule, G-Heat heating devices provide significant benefits when the temperature drops below 32°F, or for people with circulatory disorders (such as Raynaud's syndrome) who feel cold in their extremities even at moderate temperatures. For activities involving prolonged periods of inactivity, active thermoregulation is recommended at temperatures as low as 32°F.

Are G-Heat heated garments compatible with the 3-layer system?

G-Heat products are designed to fit into the 3-layer system. Heated underwear replaces or complements your first layer. Heated vests and jackets are used as a middle layer. Heated gloves are your outer layer for your hands. This compatibility is a major focus of development at G-Heat: each piece is designed to work in synergy with your other ski clothing, without creating excess thickness or compromising freedom of movement.

What size should I choose for my thermal ski clothing?

For the first layer, choose your usual size—the underwear should be snug without being tight. For the middle layer, stick with your standard size so you can layer it over the first layer. For the third layer (jacket, pants), ideally try it on with your lower layers on. G-Heat size guides include specific recommendations for each product to take layering into account.

Can G-Heat cooling products be used for après-ski?

G-Heat cooling technologies (Jade Cool, Tech Cool) are primarily designed to manage overheating in hot conditions. For après-ski, they are useful during the muscle recovery phase: a G-Heat cooling towel applied to tired legs helps to limit local inflammation and provides a pleasant feeling of freshness after exercise. These products are not a substitute for complete thermal recovery, but they effectively complement your post-ski routine.

How to pack for skiing?

To optimize your ski suitcase, prioritize technicality over volume and organize your belongings into three distinct categories:

• On the slopes: a single waterproof outfit (jacket and pants) is sufficient. Focus on rotating your base layers (3 technical tops such as Top Cozy, 2 bottoms) and ski socks.
• Off-piste: bring comfortable, loose-fitting clothing (jogging pants, warm sweater) and a pair of lined après-ski boots.
• Space-saving tip: wear your ski jacket and heaviest shoes during the trip and use compression bags for your bulky clothing.

What clothing and accessories should you bring for a ski trip?

The essential equipment for a ski trip should cover the 3-layer system and protection for the extremities:

• The body: 1st layer: breathable (synthetic/merino), 2nd layer: insulating (fleece or Essential thin down jacket), 3rd layer: waterproof (jacket >10,000 Schmerber).
• Hands: waterproof gloves or heated gloves (EVO-3) for those who feel the cold more, which are more effective at maintaining dexterity.
• Feet: ski socks reinforced at the shin (only one pair at a time!) or heated versions to prevent frostbite.
• Head: a ski helmet, S3-rated goggles, and a neck warmer to block the wind.

How should children be dressed for skiing?

Children get cold faster than adults, so insulation should take precedence over mobility:

• Clothing: choose a one-piece suit or overalls to prevent snow from getting into the back when falling.
• Hands: always opt for mittens (warmer than gloves) and attach them to the wrists with a cord.
• Underneath: avoid cotton. Layer thermal underwear and a thick fleece.
• Safety: a helmet is essential, ideally worn with a thin balaclava rather than a scarf to avoid any risk of strangulation or discomfort.

References

[1] “Ski vacations, the ideal suitcase”, France Montagnes

[2] “Hypothermia in babies”, Mpedia (Child specialist)

[3] “Down jacket comparison”, UFC-Que Choisir

[4] “Three-layer ski clothing”, Glisshop