Ski touring is an intense activity divided into two distinct phases: the ascent and the descent. Just like snowshoe hiking, you will face cold and snow during high-output efforts. Your clothing must therefore be insulating, protective, and highly breathable. Here is how to dress properly for ski touring.
Wearing breathable and insulating layers
The breathable base layer
A technical base layer efficiently wicks away sweat while ensuring optimal thermal regulation. Worn next to skin, it is indispensable for ski touring to prevent serious risks like hypothermia. For the top, a long-sleeved t-shirt is ideal. For the bottom, ¾ length thermal tights work best. For materials, choose merino wool, technical synthetics or silk.
The insulating mid-layer
On the uphill or during intense exertion, you don't need a heavy insulating layer like a thick down jacket or bulky fleece. Instead, go for a micro-fleece or a light, breathable fleece. Choose a higher fabric weight if you plan to hike in freezing conditions.
For rest stops, carry a packable down jacket. Highly compressible, it provides immediate warmth during extended pauses.
Choosing protective clothing
The waterproof jacket
When choosing your ski touring outfit, protective technical apparel is essential. A jacket with a waterproof, breathable membrane is ideal for this activity. To ensure complete protection against snowstorms and rain, look for a waterproof shell rated at 20,000 mm Schmerber.
Key technical details include underarm ventilation zips for improved breathability, reinforcements on the shoulders to withstand backpack wear, and a helmet-compatible hood for optimal storm protection.
Ski touring trousers
A 3-layer pant with an integrated membrane is an excellent choice for ski touring. It delivers outstanding protection against the elements (wind, snow, moisture). It is also ideal for the ascent, especially when featuring preformed knees, ventilation zips and built-in gaiters.
Softshell clothing
A softshell setup is also a great option for ski touring. Softshell jackets and trousers can be worn in fair weather conditions (with no risk of rain or heavy snowfall). Their stretch delivers enhanced freedom of movement, superb breathability and solid wind protection.
Protecting your extremities
Head protection
When ski touring, protecting your head against mountain hazards such as rockfall, stones, branches or hard snow is vital. Make sure to wear a helmet certified for ski touring. It is generally lighter and more breathable than a standard alpine skiing helmet. Also pack a beanie and a neck gaiter or balaclava to shield your head and neck from wind and cold.
Finally, sunglasses for the ascent and/or ski goggles for the descent will protect your eyes from UV rays as well as snow and wind.
Hand protection
On the ascent, wear lightweight, breathable gloves. They allow the dexterity needed for gear adjustments (such as handling ski skins) and ensure a secure grip on your poles.
For the descent, pack warm gloves or mittens. They are warmer and more durable than uphill touring gloves. In severe cold, you can also wear liner gloves throughout your mountain outing.
Foot protection
To protect your feet, quality wool ski socks are essential. They keep you warm and typically protect from your toes up to your knees.
Finally, consider investing in gaiters if your hiking trousers don't have them built-in. Their job is to keep snow and rain out of your boots.
Dressing for ski touring requires technical clothing engineered to regulate body temperature, protect against the cold, prevent heat loss from extremities, and shield you from all alpine elements (both rough weather and natural terrain).
