Last year our kids started skiing lessons at our local hill and they loved it. It was kind of a turning point for our family because it was the first year we didn’t have preschoolers or kindergartners which meant doing more stuff as a family. Things that we as parents also enjoy. I grew up skiing and it feels like seeing an old friend. That familiar and warm feeling of something fun and the ease of getting back into it. If you are like us and getting back into skiing you might be looking to add some ski gear to your Christmas list. This is my Skier Gift Guide.
Skier Gift Guide
- Alpine Touring Skis – If you are looking for a big ticket gift why not do an equipment upgrade? I like these as they are both stylish and sporty.
- Power Down Jacket – Not as big a ticket item as a new pair of skis a good coat is still a big purchase. Depending on what conditions you are skiing in you might want to have a few options handy. I plan on using this or this when it isn’t terribly cold whereas I will switch to this if it is colder than minus 15.
- Merino wool base layer tee – Base layers are a great option for skiers. Wool is a warm option but if you aren’t into wearing it close to your skin try this option.
- Snow Pants – the first rule of skiing is that friends don’t let friends wear jeans on the ski hill. I remember growing up there were always kids going on a school ski trip and they didn’t wear snow pants! I guess they were too cool or just came unprepared. Either way inexperience skiers (generally who show up with jeans) tend to fall. Dry jeans are cold to ski in let alone wet jeans. Make sure to have a good pair of snow pants!! They don’t have to be expensive either. I always buy my kids snow pants here.
- Merino Wool Ski Sweater – I love how retro this sweater is and the turtleneck is my fave.
- Ski Roller Bag – This type of bag is great to keep all your gear together in one place. Especially if you are travelling further than your local hill.
- Merino wool base layer leggings – I find long johns are almost more important base layer than the upper layer. Up top you can layer turtlenecks and wool sweaters but our bottom half often gets forgotten. At the very least I like a wool legging. When we skied in extra cold weather I would also layer some fleece pj pants for an extra layer of warmth.
- Perfect Winter Boots – You need a pair of boots to get to and from the hill. Preferably ones that can handle the snow! Love the plaid detail on these.
- Down Mittens – The best thing I ever did was buy a pair of down mittens. They are so much warmer than any other pair of mittens I have ever had. Makes for a more enjoyable day on the hill if my fingers stay warm.
- Spherical Snowsports Goggles – I have never been one to wear sunglasses on the ski hill. I find they are cold and make my eyes water. I am team ski goggles for life. How cool and futuristic do these rimless ones look?
- Merino Ski Sweater – I love how this sweater is a modern minimalistic take on the fair isle sweater. I can say from experience that it is lightweight and warm.
- Skyline Pom Pom Beanie – I have said it before I will say it again this is my favourite hat. So much so I bought it in two colours. It has the perfect amount of chunkiness and slouch. Secure it with your ski goggles and get on the hill.
- Ski Straps – These are great for keeping your skis together to get from the car to the hill. Perfect stocking stuffers.
- Perfect Turtleneck – My go to layers for spending a day on the hill is a base layer and a turtleneck plus my ski jacket. When it is colder than minus 5 or so I will add a sweater over top of that combo.
Other things that you could add as gifts for skiers is this if they wear a helmet, or this neck warmer. Or go with this if you are feeling extra stylish.
What do you want on your skier gift guide?