The Best Ski and Snowboarding Gear of 2021

Check out all of these essentials before you hit the slopes this winter.

Winter is here — and that means it’s skiing and snowboarding season. With the holidays in full swing, one of the best ways to celebrate is by taking a trip up north and shredding the gnar. Whether you grew up in the Rockies or you’re from Texas, one thing’s for sure: you’re going to need to stay warm on the slopes. But shopping for snow sports definitely ain’t easy, and it seems like there’s a million moving parts to bring when you’re packing for the trip: long underwear, ski pants, a jacket, turtlenecks, hats, goggles, the list goes on. To help out, we’ve compiled a list of the best gear to bring on your adventure into the snowy weather to help you remember it all.

 

Goggles — Oakley $207

Image Courtesy of Oakley

With a large lens, these goggles will keep your field of view wide open on the slopes. This pair also provides protection against UVA, UVB, and UVC, and harmful blue light up to 400 nm. The triple-layer foam and moisture-wicking polar fleece lining will keep your face warm and your eyes open.

 

Ski Suit — Free People $498

Image Courtesy of Free People

This ski suit is fully waterproof to keep moisture out and locking out the cold. Plus, it has a fitted silhouette, so you’ll look cute in addition to being warm. With a fitted elastic waistband, an adjustable and removable hood, and thumbholes in the sleeves, it’ll keep you moving freely while staying cozy.

 

Long Underwear — REI Co-op $60

Image Courtesy of REI Co-op

Everyone needs a good pair of long underwear to stay warm under your ski or snowboarding pants. These bottoms are moisture-wicking and super soft with a solid color and mirrored seams to provide a clean look. Plus, as a neutral color, they’ll look great with a bright or patterned ski jacket up top.

 

Helmet — evo $270

Image Courtesy of evo

This helmet “increases airflow, improves temperature regulation and anti-fog capability, and enhances impact resistance,” according to the website. It will keep your head warm and safe on the slopes, in case of any wipeouts. Plus, there’s an adjustable fit, so your head will be extra secure.

 

Gloves — Spyder $69

Image Courtesy of Spyder

Gloves are maybe one of the most essential items when on the slopes — frostbite, who? In addition to hand warmers, grab these globes, which have zippered heat warmer pockets and material for touch screen devices if you need to text your lost sibling on the mountain. Made with 200G micro one-sided fleece, pick up this pair to ensure your hands stay warm.

 

Fleece — Columbia $29.99-$39.99

Image Courtesy of Columbia

This fleece is great for everyday purposes, but it’s also wonderful to wear on top of your long underwear and turtleneck layers as well. It has pockets, which is always a plus, and comes in 14 different colors, from red, to fuchsia, to green, to blue. Stay comfortable on and off the slopes with this Columbia fleece.

 

Socks — REI Co-op $27

Image Courtesy of REI Co-op

Keep your toes snug in your boots with these socks from REI Co-op. This pair has underfoot cushioning in addition to shin and calf protection and it wicks moisture. Made with merino wool, your feet will be kept warm without the bulk for a perfect ski or snowboarding day.

 

Jacket — The North Face $360

Image Courtesy of The North Face

Last but not least, we have the most essential part of any ski outfit: the jacket. This 3-in-1 jacket has a waterproof shell and an insulating mid-layer to create the perfect top layer for the slopes. Breathable and windproof as well, its ThermoBall™ Eco insulation within the liner jacket is made of 100%-recycled material. Stay warm and Earth-friendly with this jacket!

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