The Ultimate Guide to Ski and Snowboard Gear

From baselayers, goggles, helmets and outerwear to the burly, four-wheel capable truck that’ll get you there in one piece during a full-on blizzard.

ultimate-ski-and-snow-gear-patrol-full-lead-1440 Chase Pellerin

Skiing and snowboarding are not uncomplicated sports, and despite a laid-back vibe emulative of surf culture and all the quaintness that goes with sipping hot cocoa in the lodge, there’s a lot that goes into a day on the slopes. To put it plainly, there’s a ton of gear required to make it happen. It’s easy to think that one might be able to skip out on some of the necessities, but any sacrifice will always come at the expense of comfort in the cold. No, white crew socks won’t cut it, and blue jeans aren’t a substitute for snow pants. Baselayers and ski socks, jackets and snow pants, goggles and a helmet, boots, not to mention skis or a board, are requisite.

But it’s not just what’s worn on the hill that deserves consideration — the before and, more importantly, the après, are just as consequential. Sturdy, water-resistant boots (preferably made of leather) are a must-have, and it can’t hurt to bring along an extra hat for when the helmet comes off. Beyond that, attire donned during any post-mountain activities, whether they take place at a local watering hole or a secluded cabin, is entirely a consequence of personal taste. (But it can’t hurt to put a little thought into it.)

Baselayers

Mons Royale

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Code MIPS Helmet by Smith $180
Fall Line Prizm Goggle by Oakley $143
MTN Utility Mitt by Mountain Standard $69
Range MIPS Helmet by Giro $113+
Axis Goggle by Giro $135
Fall Line Mitten by Hestra $105+
Redwood by Kaenon $209

Après Style

Off-piste style can be just as important as what’s worn on the hill, but for different reasons. In a sense, spending a day at the mountain is a well-earned pretext for showing up at the local pub in bibs and baselayers. But the potential for embracing a setting both rustic and refined with appropriate garments shouldn’t be ignored.

The Northerner

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