Ski touring is a favourite winter activity. Unlike alpine skiing, your outfit must be fully adaptable. Climbs demand heavy physical effort where you heat up quickly, while fast descents bring cold instantly. To manage these rapid temperature shifts, dialling in your ski touring kit is essential.
Key takeaways:
- The three-layer system is key to managing your body temperature in ski touring.
- The base layer, typically a technical long-sleeve t-shirt, must wick moisture away effectively.
- A fleece, down jacket, or softshell jacket provides effective insulation.
- A hardshell jacket protects against harsh elements thanks to its waterproof and windproof build.
- Ski touring trousers and accessories must match the mountain conditions.
The base layer
To get started in ski touring, use the layering system. It allows you to easily add or shed layers as temperatures change. The base layer, worn next to skin, works to wick sweat away and regulate core temperature.
When it comes to materials, merino wool base layers deliver natural thermoregulation, superior comfort, insulation even when damp, and built-in odour resistance. Synthetic fabrics excel at wicking moisture, dry fast, withstand heavy use, and are more budget-friendly. For the best balance, go with a merino wool and synthetic blend base layer.
Fabric weight is also key. For mild days, choose a lightweight technical t-shirt between 120 and 150 g/m2. In standard conditions, opt for a long-sleeve t-shirt with a weight between 150 and 200 g/m2. In this case, a zip is handy for venting heat. In extreme cold, go with thermal tights and a long-sleeve t-shirt between 200 and 260 g/m2.
Fleece
Fleeces are a staple in ski touring clothing. Serving as a mid layer, they deliver warmth and cold insulation. They are invaluable for cold parts of the tour, such as early morning starts, summit breaks, transitions, or the descent.
A technical fleece delivers insulation, breathability, lightweight warmth, and fast drying. Depending on the cold, you can choose from various fabric weights and styles. A zip-up jacket is ideal for ski touring, allowing you to vent heat on the fly without stopping.
In colder conditions, an insulated jacket is also an option. Its thermal efficiency is unmatched and it packs down small. However, it lacks breathability and is generally not worn on the climb.
A softshell jacket can often replace the fleece/insulated jacket and hardshell jacket combo. It is breathable, insulating, and windproof. Skiers who prefer not to switch layers love it in stable weather. However, a softshell reaches its limits in severe weather. It is not built for extreme cold, gale-force winds, or heavy downpours.
Waterproof jackets
A waterproof jacket is an absolute staple in any ski touring kit. As a third layer, its job is to shield you from outside elements. It is vital against high-altitude winds, blowing snow, and rain. It should be lightweight and packable to stash easily in your pack on the ascent.
The waterproofness of a hardshell jacket is rated in Schmerber. For ski touring, a model rated at 10,000 mm minimum is recommended. For ultimate protection, we advise choosing a jacket with 20,000 mm or higher.
Generally, higher waterproof ratings can mean lower breathability. However, membranes like Cimalp's Ultrashell deliver breathability well above standard hardshells while maintaining reliable waterproofness. As a benchmark, a RET under 6 is outstanding, while a RET between 6 and 12 is fully sufficient for ski touring.
Technical features make a hardshell jacket even more effective. Underarm pit zips, a helmet-compatible hood with a stiffened visor, and a longer cut to protect the lower back are essential details.
Ski touring trousers
Whether climbing or descending, legs take the brunt of the effort in ski touring. Constantly in motion, trousers must remain lightweight and breathable.
Unlike downhill gear, ski touring trousers are built for managing intense effort. Softshell is the ideal choice. It provides exceptional freedom of movement, top-tier breathability, solid water repellency against light snow, and reliable wind protection. Side zips are great for ventilation on the ascent, while scuff guard reinforcements at the hem protect against ski edges.
If you head out in very wet conditions, on ski mountaineering routes above 4,000 metres, or for glacier traverses, hardshell trousers are strongly recommended. They provide complete weather protection in severe conditions.
For standard conditions, a softshell pair combined with waterproof overtrousers works perfectly. Simply pack the overtrousers in your rucksack and pull them on if weather deteriorates.
Other essential ski touring gear
A ski touring rucksack carries your extra layers, avalanche safety kit, food, water, as well as crampons or ice axes. It must offer comfort, load stability, efficient weight distribution, and quick access to dedicated pockets. For added safety, some packs include an integrated avalanche airbag.
To complete your ski touring outfit, pack at least two pairs of gloves. Thin gloves are ideal for the ascent, while a warmer pair or mittens keep hands comfortable on the descent. A beanie, balaclava, or neck tube keeps your head warm. Dedicated merino wool ski touring socks are also recommended, along with a spare pair.
Finally, your ski touring gear checklist should include key accessories. Gaiters keep snow out of your boots, while Category 4 sunglasses or a ski goggle, sunscreen, and UV lip balm provide vital protection. You can also add a headlamp, an insulated flask, trail snacks, and a first aid kit. And never forget to wear your avalanche transceiver.
With these essentials, your ski touring setup is ready. Gear up properly, pack your rucksack, check your route, and make the most of your day in the mountains.
Photo credits: Grégoire Fauquenoi
