Ski touring is one of the many disciplines within the skiing family and is certainly the most complete. It will require you to master virtually every technique, including off-piste. But to practise ski touring properly, it's important to have the right equipment and the right clothing for ski touring. Below you will find a complete list of the right clothing for ski touring so you can head out with complete peace of mind.
Ski jacket: for comfort and performance
The waterproofing of ski jackets is essential for understanding the level of protection they offer. This waterproofing is measured in Schmerber and expressed in mm: the higher the number of mm, the more effective the membrane.
It's always difficult to give definitive and fully objective values in terms of quality, but most professionals agree that 10,000 mm Schmerber is needed for a genuinely waterproof ski jacket.
You should also ensure that the jacket seams are heat-welded or taped. The principle is to heat-bond waterproof strips to the inner seams of the jacket, ensuring near-perfect waterproofing at the garment's most vulnerable points.
A good ski touring jacket must nonetheless be breathable. While waterproofing matters in terms of keeping moisture out, the fabric must also allow your perspiration, humidity and body heat to escape in the other direction. Otherwise, your jacket quickly becomes an unbearable sauna.
Choosing the right ski touring outfit is essential for making the most of nature and the snow. Opt for quality and you'll be kitted out for years with warm, comfortable clothing perfectly suited to your discipline.
Ski touring clothing: three layers for optimal protection
A good ski outfit is essential for keeping the skier's enjoyment intact. For ski touring, breathability is key because skiers exert themselves a great deal and perspire heavily. If that moisture stays trapped beneath your clothes, the cold and damp can be biting and will quickly kill all positive sensations and the pleasure of gliding. For the best results, it's advisable to combine three layers:
Thermal base layers: the first step to a great ski touring outfit
The thermal base layer is essential if you want solid insulating protection. It may even be the most important garment in your ski touring outfit. Huge advances have been made with new technical fabrics offering optimal warmth and perfect comfort. The combination of bamboo and silk, for example, delivers impressive results in terms of comfort and warmth. What's more, these are exceptionally soft fibres that stay perfectly in place whatever the skier's movements.A second insulating layer
The value of a second insulating layer is less pronounced in ski touring because you exert more energy and generate more body heat. But if you're heading to high altitude or setting out on a particularly cold day, this layer will be important. It could be a warm jacket, a ski fleece or a synthetic down gilet.
Ski jacket: for comfort and performance
The waterproofing of ski jackets is essential for understanding the level of protection they offer. This waterproofing is measured in Schmerber and expressed in mm: the higher the number of mm, the more effective the membrane.
It's always difficult to give definitive and fully objective values in terms of quality, but most professionals agree that 10,000 mm Schmerber is needed for a genuinely waterproof ski jacket.
You should also ensure that the jacket seams are heat-welded or taped. The principle is to heat-bond waterproof strips to the inner seams of the jacket, ensuring near-perfect waterproofing at the garment's most vulnerable points.
A good ski touring jacket must nonetheless be breathable. While waterproofing matters in terms of keeping moisture out, the fabric must also allow your perspiration, humidity and body heat to escape in the other direction. Otherwise, your jacket quickly becomes an unbearable sauna.
Ski touring trousers: freedom of movement and waterproofing
A ski touring trouser must above all be windproof and durable. It should also give you good freedom of movement and, in particular, plenty of range of motion. Freedom of movement is key so you can express yourself on your skis without feeling restricted or stiff. You can also go for bib trousers or ski salopettes, which have the advantage of a great fit and being very comfortable to wear. In many ways, a timeless classic on the slopes. Follow our guide to find out how choosing your ski trousers, whatever your discipline.
Gloves, ski beanie and sunglasses
Don't overlook gloves and ski beanies. They'll protect you from the cold, snow and wind on the most exposed part of your body (your head). Your hands need to stay warm and well protected in case of a fall. Also think about sunglasses for ski touring and, of course, a helmet — both essential for your safety on the slopes.
Choosing the right ski touring outfit is essential for making the most of nature and the snow. Opt for quality and you'll be kitted out for years with warm, comfortable clothing perfectly suited to your discipline.
