Piste de resistance: Nine ways to wear ski-wear style

"Whether a diamond run regular, a newbie boarder or just a fan of the ‘après’, all it takes is one wipe-out to be piste off."

Thu, 02 Jan, 2025 - 15:42

Annmarie O'Connor - @aocdotme

Aspen, Zermatt, St. Moritz - wherever you like to do winter sports, one thing is certain, you are what you wear.

Whether a diamond run regular, a newbie boarder or just a fan of the ‘après’, all it takes is one wipe-out to be piste off.

Cold and damp is never a good look. Neither is blowing the budget for a few days on the slopes. That’s where the high street earns its ski pass.

Before you get away, ensure your gear is warm, waterproof, and breathable from the inside out.

Start with a base layer under a fleece like Helly Hansen’s Merino wool ‘Lifa’ shirt.

Snugly fit with a thermal two-layer material construction, its flatlock seams add extra comfort by reducing chafing.

When it comes to jackets, always consider snow seepage. Look for elasticated inner sleeve cuffs, sealed seams, fixed snow skirts, and chin guards.

Top tip? Try imitating ski motions to get a more accurate idea of fit. Not only does Dare2B’s ‘Glacial’ jacket tick these boxes, but its badge and zip pullers are also embellished with Swarovski crystals.

Apply similar logic to the bottom half by pairing ski silks with salopettes.

Outdoor clothing chain Mountain Warehouse (opening soon on Cork’s Opera Lane) offers a stylish selection of ski pants like their slim leg ‘Moon’ design made with non-stretch ripstop fabric, padded insulation and integrated snow gaiters.

Don’t forget those finishing touches. Over-the-calf socks made from wool or a cold-weather alternative like THERMOLITE® are ideal.

Extra marks for a reinforced toe box or an elasticated heel design.

Invest in touchscreen-friendly wrist-strap gloves and well-fitting goggles but rent your helmet and boots. Next stop—the mountains!

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