8 Nike Essentials to Wear Skiing and Snowboarding

Buying Guide

Stay warm, agile and ready to take on the mountain with these ski and snowboard outfit staples.

Last updated: 7 December 2023
4 min read
What to Wear Skiing and Snowboarding: 8 Essentials by Nike

When hitting the slopes on your skis or snowboard, the last thing you want to think about is how cold you are. Fine-tuning your ski and snowboard outfit will help you to feel comfortable on the mountain so you can crush each run.

If you're planning what to wear on your next ski or snowboard adventure, use this guide to find the best outfit staples. From base-layer tops and bottoms to insulating mid layers and cosy accessories, you'll feel snug and warm from the slopes to the ski lodge.

(Related: The Best Nike Gifts for Skiers and Snowboarders)

What to Wear Skiing This Season

1. Nike Base-Layer Tops

Wearing the right base layers is as important as having warm, water-repellent outer layers. Look for base layers that fit tight against the skin to minimise bulk but have enough stretch to promote a full range of motion.

There are several Nike options for base-layer tops. A half-zip top allows skiers and snowboarders to control airflow and keep cool once warmed up. A turtleneck will keep cold air from creeping down your neck and core. Thumbholes can hold the sleeves in place and provide extra warmth.

(Related: Find the Best Nike Base Layers for Every Activity)

2. Nike Base-Layer Bottoms

When selecting the best base-layer bottoms for skiing or snowboarding, opt for tights or leggings that are body-hugging. Make sure you avoid a baggy fit that could bunch up inside snow trousers.

There are two key features Nike base-layer bottoms offer: sweat-wicking Nike Dri-FIT materials to keep athletes dry and comfortable and Nike Therma-FIT technology, which helps retain body heat.

3. Nike Medium- and High-Support Sports Bras

If you wear a sports bra while skiing or snowboarding, look for one that balances support with all-day comfort.

(Related: How to Find the Right Nike Sports Bra Size for You)

Nike medium-support sports bras like the Nike Swoosh offer a simple racerback design that promotes free movement, as well as breathable Nike Dri-FIT fabrics that wick away sweat before it can dampen your base layers.

Nike high-support sports bras, such as those in the Nike Alpha line, give a compressed feel and minimise bounce for a secure fit. Ventilation is equally important in these sports bras, with perforations at the front and a back designed for breathability.

4. Nike Insulating Mid Layers

Between your base layer and your ski coat, an extra layer of warmth will help you forget about cold temps on the mountain. A low-profile, insulating gilet can provide warmth for your core while keeping movement free and unrestricted.

A form-fitting Nike Therma-FIT gilet fits well under a ski coat and regulates body temperature to keep you warm without overheating. Synthetic and down fill keeps these gilets lean and lightweight while a fleece collar adds protection from cold air.

5. Nike Neck Warmers

For those cold powder days, slip a neck warmer between your coat and ski helmet. The soft, lightweight materials of Nike neck warmers dry quickly, meaning you won't catch a chill.

With stretchy fabric that contours to your face, Nike neck warmers can be pulled up to sit above your cheeks—protecting your face from biting winds on the chairlift or as you glide down the mountain.

6. Nike Tracksuit Bottoms

Pack a pair of soft tracksuit bottoms so you can warm up with an après-ski drink minus the wet snow trousers.

Opt for a pair of loose-fitting joggers that you can easily slip on over base-layer bottoms. Choose from a variety of fleece joggers or find Nike Therma-FIT tracksuit bottoms that will keep you toasty, especially if your après-ski hangout is outdoors.

7. Nike Slippers

After a fulfilling day on the slopes, few things feel better than unbuckling hard ski boots and slipping on a pair of slippers or slides.

Nike slippers offer a soft, fleece-like lining and a squishy midsole—a welcome retreat for tired feet. Meanwhile, grippy outsoles protect against any slush or snow in the car park.

8. Nike Beanies

Make the car ride home cosy with a warm, fleece-lined Nike beanie to slip on. Nike beanies come in a variety of styles, from camo and tie-dye prints to no-frills fisherman beanies and beanies with a pom on top.

Words by Jessica Murri

Originally published: 21 December 2022

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