Ski touring is an intense activity with two phases: the ascent and the descent. Just as with snowshoe hiking, you will face cold and snow during intense efforts. Garments must therefore be sufficiently insulating, protective and breathable. To help you choose the right clothing, here is how to dress for ski touring.
Wearing breathable and insulating garments
The breathable base layer
The base layer efficiently wicks away perspiration while ensuring good thermal regulation. Worn directly against the skin, it is essential for ski touring and can prevent critical situations such as hypothermia. For the upper body, a long-sleeve t-shirt is the best choice. For the lower body, a ¾-length winter tight is ideal. In terms of fabric, we recommend choosing garments in merino wool, synthetic or silk.
The second insulating layer
During the effort phase, you do not need a heavily insulating second layer such as a down jacket or thick fleece. A micro-fleece or lightweight, breathable fleece is a better choice. You can opt for a heavier weight if you plan to hike in extreme cold.
For rest phases, consider bringing a down jacket as well. It has the advantage of being compressible and is very useful during prolonged stops.
Choosing protective garments
The waterproof jacket
When choosing your ski touring outfit, protective garments are essential. A jacket with a waterproof and breathable membrane is perfect for this type of activity. If you want to be certain of standing up to snowfall or rain, opt for a fully sealed jacket rated at 20,000 mm Schmerber.
In terms of details, underarm ventilation zips improve breathability, reinforcements particularly at the shoulders are ideal for carrying a ski pack, and a hood large enough to wear over a ski helmet ensures optimal protection.
The ski touring trousers
A 3-layer trouser with an integrated membrane can be an excellent choice for ski touring. It provides outstanding protection against the elements (wind, snow, moisture…). It is also ideal during the ascent, particularly when it features pre-shaped knees, ventilation zips and integrated gaiters.
Softshell garments
Softshell is also an option for dressing for ski touring. The softshell jacket and trousers can be worn when conditions are favourable (no risk of rain or snowfall). Their flexibility gives you greater freedom of movement, excellent breathability and solid wind protection.
Protecting the body's extremities
Head protection
When ski touring, it is important to protect your head from mountain hazards such as falling rocks, boulders, trees or snow. For this, wearing a helmet designed for the activity is essential. It is generally lighter and more breathable than an alpine skiing helmet. Also bring a beanie and a neck gaiter or balaclava. These accessories will protect your head and neck from cold and wind.
Finally, sunglasses for the ascent and/or a goggle for the descent protect your eyes from UV rays as well as from snow and wind.
Hand protection
During the ascent phase, wear soft and breathable gloves. They are ideal for certain tasks (such as handling ski skins) and will give you a good grip on your poles.
During the descent phase, bring gloves or mittens. They are warmer and more robust than ascent gloves. In cold conditions, you can also wear a pair of liner gloves throughout your mountain outing.
Foot protection
To protect your feet, it is essential to have good woollen ski socks. They keep you warm and generally protect you from toes to knees.
Finally, consider investing in gaiters if your hiking trousers are not already equipped with them. Their role is to prevent snow or rain from getting into your footwear.
Dressing for ski touring means wearing garments technical enough to regulate your body heat properly; protect against the cold; prevent heat from escaping through your extremities; and shield you from all external elements (bad weather as well as natural hazards).
