Once you’re equipped with your skis or snowboard, ski boots, and poles, what other gear should you absolutely bring to confidently hit the snowy slopes?
A helmet, ski goggles, waterproof clothing, sunscreen, and protective lip balm are the essential equipment you’ll need for skiing. If you go off-piste, you should also bring a backpack specifically designed for that purpose. Here’s a more detailed explanation of which clothing and accessories to bring to properly gear up for skiing!
The Helmet: Essential Ski Equipment
The helmet is a must-have for skiing. While it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. It protects against impacts (which can sometimes be severe) that could cause serious accidents and trauma. (For this reason, avoid models with built-in headphones, so you can remain attentive to slope hazards.)
To combine quality and safety, choose a helmet compliant with CE-EN1077 (European standard) or ASTM F-2040 (American standard).
There are ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) shells, the least expensive category, strong in case of impact but heavier, less ventilated, and relatively warm (unless equipped with a ventilation system).
In-Mold helmets are thinner, better at dispersing impacts, and reduce the risk of trauma.
Some skiers looking for modern, safe equipment choose a hybrid helmet, combining the two previous technologies. These are the most resistant (and most expensive) helmets.
Helmets come in different sizes (48 to 64) and children’s sizes.
Make sure there is not too much space between the helmet and the top of the goggles you plan to wear, but also enough space to comfortably wear them. Ideally, bring your goggles (and/or glasses) and hat to test that you are comfortable wearing them with your helmet.
Ski Goggles or Sunglasses
Another essential piece of ski equipment is goggles (which protect better from impacts than sunglasses).
The frame should be sturdy, comfortable, and windproof. The strap should be easy to adjust, long enough, and very strong.
The inner foam should not obstruct visibility or irritate your face.
Ensure that the ventilation system is effective; otherwise, fog will spoil your vision while skiing or snowboarding (choose an Over The Glasses system if you wear prescription glasses under your helmet to avoid fogging problems).
Ski equipment should also be enjoyable: the frame of your goggles can be full-frame (visible around the lens), frameless (the lens covers the entire structure), or semi-frameless... it’s up to you to choose the design you like best.
Finally, choose a lens appropriate for the light conditions (classified from 0 to 4). For example, a category 1 lens is suitable for skiing in low visibility (e.g., fog), while a category 4 lens is very dark and protects against strong sunlight at high altitudes (above 3,000 meters, such as at Tignes or the 2 Alpes).
Ski Jacket and Pants
Apart from essential gloves, what are the basics of ski clothing to face cold and snow?
Choose a ski jacket and pants made of technical fabrics such as Gore-Tex, Thinsulate, or Primaloft, which are warm and waterproof.
The Schmerber rating indicates the waterproof level of your clothing (provided by the manufacturer on a label). This rating should be at least 10,000, or even 20,000 if you plan to go off-piste (powder snow is denser, deeper, and wetter than groomed slopes).
Your jacket and pants should also be breathable enough to prevent excessive sweating. Ideally, choose jackets with a removable inner layer.
Another useful element: under your jacket and pants, wear merino wool or synthetic base layers (insulating and breathable), and thin synthetic wool socks to keep your feet warm while minimizing sweat.
If you are particularly sensitive to the cold, add a light fleece jacket between your base layer and ski jacket.
If you opt for a ski suit, it should have the same qualities as a jacket and pants worn together.
However, ski suits for men or women have some drawbacks: in warm weather (e.g., stopping for lunch at mountain restaurants, like in La Clusaz), unbuttoning the upper part can get in the way of movement. Also, ski suits are less convenient for restroom breaks.
If your ski outfit is a jacket and pants instead of a suit, you can also use your jacket for hiking, après-ski, etc., which saves you from bringing an extra coat.
Ski Backpack
Not essential (but very useful) for on-piste skiing, the ski backpack is essential for off-piste skiing.
It should include a waterproof compartment for safety equipment (shovel, avalanche beacon, probe, and GPS) and be at least 50 liters if you plan to camp, to carry everything you need, such as your tent or food.
Need more advice? Check out our guide to choosing the right ski backpack or for snowshoeing.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm
Another essential piece of ski equipment: sun protection. Snow reflects more than 80% of UV rays (compared to 5–10% on water). Use a highly protective sunscreen (ideally SPF 50+) and apply it all over, including ears and neck. Reapply at least every 2 hours and use a protective lip balm (UV-resistant), as lips are highly sensitive to sunlight.
These tips apply to skiers of all levels, from beginners to experienced winter sports enthusiasts. If it’s your first time skiing, consult our guides to prepare your ski trip so you won’t forget anything and can enjoy your vacation stress-free!