What to wear?
It is imperative that you are properly kitted out to enjoy your wintersports holiday. Several light layers are better than a heavy bulky layer and outer garments should be waterproof yet still breathable and allow plenty of movement.
Base layer and mid layer
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It is important to use a moisture wicking thermal base layer and mid layer to transport moisture away from the skin to keep you dry and warm.
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The base layer sits next to the skin and is the most important layer. It should fit close to the skin to draw the moisture away and be made from breathable synthetic fabric rather than cotton which absorbs moisture.
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The mid layers usually a fleece or similar insulate the body. It must be highly breathable to allow moisture to transport through the base layer to the outer layer. In cold weather the mid layer helps trap air around the body to help keep it warm. By having several layers you can add or remove them as necessary to regulate the body's temperature.
Ski/board jacket
The jacket should be waterproof and breathable as well as durable against snow, ice and wind to keep you warm and dry. Most have a lining or insulation to add comfort and warmth. Shell jackets are light and easy to pack and don't normally have a lining so good base layer insulation is needed, alternatively some jackets have a zip in and out lining which can be added or removed depending on the weather conditions. Venting zips usually under the arms allow you to control temperature quickly and powder skirts (like a wide elasticated belt) prevent snow coming up inside the jacket when you fall in fresh snow. Pockets should be easily accessible and are useful for carrying lift passes, sunscreen, maps and money.
Above all the jacket should allow you to move freely.
Trousers
Trousers also need to be warm, waterproof and breathable. A high back panel keeps your lower back and kidneys warm and helps keep snow out, braces and belts can also help keep trousers in place. Some trousers have vents down the side for added ventilation and reinforced knees and ankles.
Helmet
It is becoming increasingly common for skiers and boarders to wear a helmet. Whatever level of skier or boarder you are they offer added protection in case of accident or a collision with a person or object and the snow. They also help to keep your head warm. Ski helmets are specially designed to be lightweight and comfortable to wear, with ventilation features to keep your head cool and come in a variety of styles for men, women and children.
Hat
If you are not wearing a helmet it is very important to have a hat with you even in sunny weather. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains and most heat is lost through the head so a hat is essential in bad weather.
Goggles and Sunglasses
Goggles and sunglasses are essential to protect your eyes from the glare of the sun, snow-blindness (caused by the reflecting ultra violet rays) and the weather. Sunglasses are ok in sunny weather but goggles offer better protection, especially in bad weather as they cover more of your face and prevent wind and snow getting into your eyes - especially when you are traveling even at relatively slow speeds. Light lenses such as rose or amber are best in poor light conditions and white-outs.
Socks
Having properly designed ski or board socks is essential to prevent blisters, keep your feet warm and prevent sweating. Ski and board socks are designed without seams and often have special pressure panels built in for added comfort.
Gloves and Mittens
Ski gloves and mittens should be durable and hard wearing with a protective outer layer and warm thermal inner layer. They should be snug but not tight and allow your fingers to move inside so that the air can circulate and keep fingers warm. Mittens are generally warmer than gloves. Silk inner gloves help to keep hands warm by trapping air inside the glove. Hand warmers can also be put inside gloves and can keep hands warm for up to 8 hours.
Sun Protection
The sun's rays are stronger at altitude where the air is thinner and are also reflected off the snow which adds to their intensity. Even on cloudy days it is very easy to get sunbunt. High factor sun screen is essential for the face and ears and a lip salve with sun protection should be applied regularly to prevent lips from chapping.
Finnish Safari Suits
If travelling to Finland you will need to also wear suitable layered clothing and thermal underwear is recommended. If you book any of the activities such as dog-sledding or snowmobiling you will be kitted out with a safari suit (rather like a boiler suit), thermal fur lined boots with rubber soles, long warm gloves and a balaclava (for very cold weather). The safari suits are worn over your own clothes and provide a very warm outer layer. The suits can be hired for the entire duration of your stay which is especially useful if you have never been skiing or boarding before and don't want to buy expensive gear as they are also suitable for skiing and boarding in.
