This past January has truly put all New England bodies to the test with its subzero temperatures. Gusting winds and frostbite yielding cold can spell disaster for skiers, but only for the ill equipped. Don’t shy away from those deep winter days! They are the bearers of stellar snow conditions; firm, grippy trails you can really sink your edges into.
Here are a few tips for staying warm on those frosty ski days:
1. Slather your face in Dermatone
Protect the most delicate skin with the self proclaimed “Frostbite Fighter”. Used by pros since 1981, Dermatone offers your face shelter from wind burn, frostbite and the harsh rays of the sun. Its compact tin package makes it easy to keep it stowed away in your jacket pocket, ready for the next application.
2. Wear the right socks
Check out my post on the importance of wearing the best ski socks.
3. Layer-up right
As Meghan Trainor put it: “It’s all about that bass.” Except in this case, it’s all about that base, as in base layers. Closest to your skin, opt for natural fibers when it comes to your base layer, think silk or merino wool blends. Oh, but don’t stop there. Three more layers should be accounted for:
Mid – For a slight boost in warmth without the extra bulk, try a fleece vest or a long sleeved micro-fleece zip-up.
Insulating – You can’t go wrong with a down sweater, it’s the ultimate solution offering the best coziness-to-weight ratio.
Outerwear – Gore-Tex hard shells keep the water and wind out, guaranteed. If you need to choose, this is the best place to invest in quality.
4. Buy boot heaters
Say it with me: Hotronics. Seriously, this is the mother of all warmth providing devices. You may only need to spend a couple dollars on the disposable foot warmers, but they are bulky and, well, disposable. Such a waste! Hotronics are directly installed in your boots, plugging into slim, rechargeable batteries for heat that just keeps on giving.
5. Succumb to mittens
There are two clans in the ski world: the “Gloves” and the “Mittens”, each swearing by virtues of their chosen hand coverings. Let me tell you though, what is lost in dexterity is gained tenfold in warmth and comfort. A fair tradeoff in my books.
Have tips of your own to share with fellow skiers? Comment below!
Winter is coming,
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Photo credits:
www.dermatone.beaumontproducts.com
www.hotronic.com