Skiing is all about having fun, and the right gear makes all the difference in ensuring you stay warm, comfortable, and dry while you're on the slopes. You don't want to be distracted by cold fingers or soggy clothes when you should be enjoying the thrill of skiing in Utah! If you’re new to the sport, figuring out what to wear can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, you’re not alone.
At Skis on the Run, we make it easy for you by outfitting you from head to toe. You can literally walk off the plane in flip-flops, and we’ll take care of the rest. Whether you’re in need of ski rentals or winter gear, we’ll deliver everything right to your doorstep, so you can skip the hassle of picking up gear at a shop. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to stay toasty and have an unforgettable time on the slopes of Park City.
Dressing in Layers
One of the most important things to know when skiing is that layering is key. The weather on the mountain can change rapidly, and you’ll also be generating a lot of heat while you ski. Dressing in layers lets you easily adjust your outfit to stay comfortable all day. If you’re missing clothing for your trip, no worries! You can purchase everything you need through Skis on the Run’s sister company, Switchback Sports. Your clothing order will be delivered alongside your ski rental, all at no extra charge, so you’re completely set for your time on the slopes without the hassle of having to visit a rental shop.
Baselayers: Keep Your Skin Dry
Your first layer is the baselayer — the clothes that sit directly on your skin. The purpose of your baselayer is to wick away moisture (like sweat) and keep your skin dry. It can be easy to grab any old cotton shirt, but trust me: avoid cotton at all costs! Cotton traps moisture, and when you’re out on the slopes, that moisture can make you cold and uncomfortable. Instead, look for baselayers made from merino wool or synthetic materials like polyester. These fabrics are breathable, wick away moisture, and keep you warm even when they get wet. You'll want a long-sleeve top and leggings or long underwear. When you're just starting out, investing in a good set of baselayers is a smart choice — it’s the foundation of your comfort.
Mid-layers: Add Insulation
Once your base layer is in place, the mid-layer comes next. This is the part of your outfit that provides insulation. Your mid-layer keeps the warmth in and helps you stay cozy even when the temperature drops. A fleece jacket or a synthetic down layer works really well as a mid-layer. If you’re really cold, a thicker option, like a down jacket, can help trap heat. The mid-layer doesn’t need to be bulky, though — you want it to be warm enough but still lightweight and breathable, so you can move freely.
Outerwear: The Protection You Need
The outer layer is your jacket and pants, which protect you from the wind, snow, and wet conditions on the mountain. Look for jackets and pants made from waterproof, breathable materials. Gore-Tex is a great option, but there are plenty of other waterproof fabrics that work well. These will keep the snow and moisture out while allowing sweat to escape, so you don’t get overheated. You’ll also want your outerwear to be insulated enough to keep you warm during the colder parts of the day, but not so thick that it feels restrictive or bulky when you’re skiing. Remember: comfort and freedom of movement are your priorities.
Essential Ski Accessories
While your clothing layers are key to staying warm, there are a few accessories that make a big difference in terms of comfort and safety. These items are just as important as your layers, so don’t forget them!
Helmets: Protect Your Head
It may seem like helmets are for advanced skiers, but every skier, beginner or not, should be wearing one. A helmet keeps your head safe in case of a fall or collision. At Skis on the Run, we make it easy to rent a helmet, and we highly recommend it for your first time skiing. Helmets are lightweight, adjustable, and can help keep your head warm on cold days. As you continue skiing, you may decide to invest in a high-quality helmet of your own.
Goggles: See Clearly, Ski Safely
Good visibility is essential when you’re skiing, and the best way to protect your eyes from the snow, wind, and glare is with a solid pair of goggles. They’ll keep your eyes safe from the harsh mountain sun and help you navigate even on flat, cloudy days. When picking out goggles, make sure they fit comfortably with your helmet and provide good coverage for your face. Depending on the weather, you might need different lenses (e.g., darker lenses for sunny days, lighter ones for overcast days), so look for goggles with interchangeable lenses for maximum versatility.
Gloves or Mittens: Warm Hands, Happy Skiers
Cold hands can ruin your day on the mountain, so it’s crucial to have the right gloves or mittens. Ski-specific gloves are insulated, waterproof, and designed to keep your hands dry and warm while also offering flexibility for grabbing ski poles or adjusting your gear. Mittens are a bit warmer than gloves (since they allow your fingers to generate heat together), but gloves give you more dexterity. Make sure your gloves are waterproof and insulated, as these will keep your hands from getting cold and wet as you ski.
Socks: Don’t Let Your Feet Get Cold
You might be tempted to grab an old pair of cotton socks, but I urge you to invest in a good pair of ski socks made from merino wool or synthetic materials. Ski socks are designed to keep your feet warm and dry by wicking away moisture. They also have padding in key areas like the shin and foot arch, which helps with comfort in your ski boots. You’ll want knee-high socks that fit snugly but aren’t too tight. This will prevent any pressure points while you’re skiing.
Neck Gaiter: Extra Protection
A neck gaiter or buff is a great accessory to have for extra warmth. It covers your neck and can be pulled up over your face on windy or snowy days. These are especially helpful for keeping your face and neck warm while you’re riding the chairlift or taking a break. They’re lightweight, breathable, and can be easily packed in your jacket when you’re not using them.
What to Rent vs. Buy
As a beginner, you might be unsure about what gear you need to buy and what you can rent. I recommend renting some items while you're just starting, as it saves you money and allows you to try different options to see what you like. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
Rent Jackets & Pants
Ski jackets and pants can be pricey, so you don’t necessarily need to buy them right away. Renting outerwear is a great option for beginners, and it gives you the chance to try different styles and sizes to see what works best for you. With Skis on the Run, you can rent high-quality, insulated Gore-Tex apparel at a great price, without breaking the bank.
Purchase Baselayers
Baselayers are a smart purchase since you’ll get a lot of use out of them, both on and off the slopes. A good set of baselayers will keep you warm and dry for years, so it’s worth investing in high-quality items.
Rent Helmets
Helmets are an essential piece of gear, but you can easily rent them at Skis on the Run. Renting is a great way to make sure you have the right fit for your first time skiing. If you’re planning to ski regularly, consider buying your own helmet later on.
Purchase Goggles
Goggles are a must-have for visibility, and investing in a good pair ensures you get a perfect fit and clear vision on the slopes. You can rent goggles, but if you plan to ski often, it’s a good idea to buy your own.
Rent Skis, Boots, and Poles
For your first time skiing, renting skis, boots, and poles is the best option. You don’t need to commit to purchasing these items until you know what works for you. If you’re visiting Park City, Skis on the Run makes it even easier by delivering your ski rental right to your doorstep. No need to waste time standing in long lines at rental shops — our team will fit your gear in the comfort of your lodging at a comparable price to on-mountain rental shops. Skis on the Run also offers on-mountain assistance if you need to swap out any rental gear.
Skiing is an amazing experience, and with the right gear, you’ll be ready to enjoy every moment on the slopes. Whether you’re renting or buying, dressing in layers and having the right accessories will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable all day long. At Skis on the Run, we’ve got gear for all ability levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros, so you’ll always have exactly what you need to feel confident and have fun.
We want to make your ski trip as easy and enjoyable as possible. With our gear delivery service, you can skip the rental lines and focus on what really matters — getting out there and making memories. We’ll bring everything right to your lodging in Park City, so you’re ready to hit the slopes as soon as you’re out the door. We can’t wait to see you on the mountain!
