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If you aren't equipped with the best ski wear then you're setting yourself up for failure before you can even say “pizza”. So if you're headed to the slopes this season, as well as stocking up on some new winter coats and winter boots, you'll be needing some practical outfits for the mountains. And when I say “practical” don't worry this edit does not compromise on style.
Whether you're a novice or a pro, you'll also need to know exactly what to pack beforehand. It's cold and wet out there and the last thing you want is to fall over (no shade, it's a rite of passage even for experienced skiers) and find yourself soggy and miserable sooner than expected. We want to make it to après.
- How we tested the best women's ski clothes in this guide
- Why you can trust me
- Meet the experts
- What kind of coat is best for skiing?
- Which ski trousers are the best?
- How do I look more stylish skiing?
- What do good skiers wear?
- The best ski boots and snow boots
- The best ski accessories
- The best après-ski clothes
- What should you not wear while skiing?
- Should ski clothes be loose or tight? Should you buy ski clothes a size bigger?
- What should a beginner skier wear?
How we tested the best ski wear and ski clothes for women
As a team of 30+ people here at Glamour UK, there are a fair few of us who have been skiing and/or snowboarding in our lifetimes. While some have only been once or twice, others are considered mountain regulars – namely Sophie Cockett, Sophie Donovan, Shani Cohen, Lian Brooks, Robyn Eugene, Rosie Lai and Hattie Cotmore who you'll see sporadically throughout this guide. So we're definitely qualified to pass judgment on the best ski clothes for women. Just see our in-depth feature on learning to snowboard with an Olympian if you don't believe us. We've tried and tested a decent amount of ski wear while taking things like cost, sustainability, wearability and style into consideration along the way, enabling us to give you advice on where to invest.
Why you can trust me
Since first skiing in Scotland as a teenager–cue looking at the learner's slope thinking “no way am I going to be able to get down that”–I've developed a serious love for the sport. I've been lucky enough to hit the slopes in America, France, Italy, and Switzerland (didn't mean to humble brag) and am excited to have an upcoming trip to Austria in my calendar. And, if I'm being honest with you, the lewks are just as fun for me as nailing my parallel ski technique.
But I'm not the only snow bunny on the Glamour team. Below you'll see those who are also keen skiers and snowboarders (aforementioned), photographed wearing the brands they love and trust. Scroll on to see photographic evidence of them wearing each piece, alongside videos so you can see how the fabric moves and performs as best as possible.
| Top things to look out for when buying the best ski wear for women: |
|---|
| 1. Fabric – look for durable, long-lasting materials that are breathable/sweat-wicking. |
| 2. Waterproofing – this is super important if you don't want to end up wet and cold. |
| 3. Insulation – feather and down-filled items will keep you cosiest. |
| 4. Fit – make sure you try things on before packing. There's nothing worse than something ill-fitting, especially if you need to be wearing it all day while moving easily in it. |
| 5. Reviews – read customer reviews before checking out. If something has 4 or 5 stars it's probably worth buying, anything less and you might want to reconsider. |
The good news is that you can look stylish and stay dry while on the slopes these days. Yep, the ski outfits women rave about now are not only technical – i.e. waterproof or water resistant, windproof and protective – but they actually look chic. Less Chalet Girl more magazine photo shoot. Speaking of which, if you feel like channelling your inner Princess Diana, we suggest going all out with a vibrant ski suit and statement goggles.
Meet the experts:
| Hadley Hammer | Former professional skier and TOGS Substack co-creator. |
| Kellyn Wilson | Former professional skier and TOGS Substack co-creator. |
I asked Hadley Hammer and Kellyn Wilson, the former professional skiers behind TOGS, why ski wear marries so well with fashion. Trust me, these women know skiing and style. “Ski wear has always had a mix of luxury and iconic deep-rooted heritage. I think of Audrey Hepburn skiing in Charade,” says Wilson–a costume reference I always pull myself when planning my mountain ‘fits. Just see my Pinterest board. “Skiing has always acted as sport’s runway. It’s an experience that only exists in a brief window of the year, is considered a luxury to most, and has an ingrained element of spectacle.” It’s a sport in which expressing personality isn't just an option, it's encouraged.
“But ultimately, all skiers are at the mercy of the elements.” No matter how chic we want to look, practicality is important. Hammer recognises, “Thinking about functional details will really help you have a better experience on snow.” It's all about staying safe at the end of the day but Hammer confirms that feeling your best “allows you to really immerse yourself in the sport”. You can enjoy the experience in a way that feels authentic to you, and that ultimately must be practical and safe, but you're allowed to serve a look, too.
If you needed more convincing that your snow gear can be stylish, look to Moncler Grenoble's AW24 collection. The debut in Saint Moritz made a case for neutrals with models, including Emily Ratajkowski, layered in off-white textures. Also trending are patterned ski coats and fairisle designs that will see you from the last run of the day to après. Bonus points for coordinating ski goggles or helmet. Even Moncler's FROW saw the likes of Anne Hathaway bundled up in long puffer coats. See–even Andy Sachs says snow gear is warm and chic!
Other women's ski wear brands to bookmark? The North Face, Perfect Moment, and Goldbergh are some of our favourites, but, while we're all for buying once and wearing again for years to come, these brands can be spenny. If you're not ready to invest, or are more about the alpine fun than slalom (valid, see you at the spa), you can pick up some more affordable buys from the likes of H&M and Zara's new skiwear lines.
We could go on about what to wear skiing, but perhaps it's best you see for yourself. Keep scrolling to see all the women's ski clothes and accessories you'll need, whether you're headed for a green or red run, tried and tested by Glamour editors themselves.
What kind of coat is best for skiing?
When it comes to choosing the best ski jackets/women's ski jackets, you're going to want something with a lot of pockets (preferably ones that are easy to open with gloves on) as well as something cosy and protective. Down-filled puffer jackets, insulated jackets or duvet coats with faux fur trims and pit zips are often the most recommended, but any outerwear that's padded, wind-resistant and waterproof will do the trick.
Keep in mind, there's a difference between high-end and high-performance/high-quality too – so always read the specs so as to avoid wasting your money. Look for something that's helmet compatible and that has a specific pass pocket for your ski pass, as this will make it easier when getting around your ski resort and on and off the lifts.
Freelance Fashion Editor Rosie Lai recommends the Johnnie Walker Ice Chalet x Perfect Moment Candice jacket as a stylish yet performative piece. If you're looking for a high-street alternative Senior Commerce Writer Sophie Donovan suggests looking at adidas' Helionic Holiday CLIMAWARM Down Jacket.
- romina introini
Perfect Moment Candice Down Parka Jacket + Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ice Chalet
Rosie Lai wearing Perfect Moment x Johnnie Walker.
- romina introini/@romilux
- luca wetherby-matthews/@lucawetherbym
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Save when you shop for the best ski clothes for women with these Net-A-Porter discount codes at checkout.
Which ski trousers are the best?
Ski trousers (or salopettes) are some of the most important ski gear you can buy. Pick something softshell that's easy to move around in while skiing or snowboarding - we recommend doing some in-store squats as a comfort test. It's also wise to pick a pair with built-in gaiters if you really want to keep the snow out when you go off-piste on your next ski trip.
Senior European Commerce Editor Sophie Cockett recommends FP Movement's Lift Love Bibb trousers as you can wear them as they come with a cosy jumper beneath, or with your jacket over the top on super cold days. Commerce Writer Shani Cohen recommends Montane's Alta Waterproof Pants, and freelancer Hattie Cotmore tried out H&M's new water-repellent ski trousers last season. Whilst it was a fair-weather test and she can't speak for getting caught in a downpour of snow, they were warm and easy to move into those parallel turns. They have a subtle flair cut making them a stylish option, too. The salopettes come in black and white colourways – easy to coordinate with the rest of your ski kit.
- romina introini
- romina introini/@romilux
- luca wetherby-matthews/@lucawetherbym
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Save when you shop for the best ski clothes for women with these H&M discount codes at checkout.
Tried and tested by (very cold) editors.
How do I look more stylish skiing?
In ski suits and snow suits, of course. Bear the same specifications as the above in mind when buying one, though. An all-in-one needs to be as warm as your down jacket or parka, though perhaps slightly more fitted, with loads of functionality, practicality but are still breathable. Leave enough room for your ski base layers (a thermal t-shirt or vest, at the very least), and slip a gilet on over the top when it's really cold and you'll be good to go. Below are some bestselling ski jumpsuits and all-in-ones, from versatile minimalist styles to bold ones that'll stand out while freeride skiing or backcountry skiing.
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Save when you shop for the best ski clothes for women with these Free People discount codes at checkout.
Black people’s athleticism should never be limited to a small selection of sports.
What do good skiers wear?
Arguably, the most important thing not to forget when you go skiing is ski thermals, which are your saving grace both on and off the slopes to keep you toasty. You can pick up everything from thermal sweatshirts to headbands and thermal socks, but you'll definitely need at least one thermal top and a pair of temperature-regulating leggings (or even some of the best fleece-lined leggings) to protect you from the cold weather, whether it's Aspen you're going to or the Alps.
If you're going later in the season and expecting warmer weather, don't sleep on your usual activewear. We wouldn't recommend skipping thermal tech at the height of the season but your yoga leggings will definitely get you through a spring visit to the mountains, and you're bound to get wear out of them after your trip, too. Shani recommends FP Movement's Jacquard Baselayer as the perfect piece to have on show beneath salopettes.
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- romina introini/@romilux
Save when you shop for women's ski clothes with these Marks & Spencer discount codes at checkout.
The best ski boots and snow boots that offer style and practicality
Want to really look the part? When you're not wearing your ski boots, you'll want a pair of snow shoes or snow boots to keep your feet dry from your chalet to the après bar. Luckily, there are some pretty luxe options to choose from on the market, so you'll find something to match your snowboard jacket in no time. In terms of ski shoes, you'll want to invest. Look to Salomon or Atomic for designs that'll last you for years.
Sophie recommends Columbia's Snowtrot Waterproof Winter Boot for exploring around the mountain (and at aprés) when you're not in your ski boots for snow sports.
- romina introini/@romilux
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Save when you shop for ski outfits for women with these Snow & Rock discount codes.
The best ski accessories
From mittens to proper ski gloves, ski helmets to bibs and everything in between, make sure you're stocked up on ski accessories as well as the basics. We recommend a good pair of light-reflecting and/or polarised goggles to protect you from the bright white glare of the snow at the very least.
Shani recommends Oakley's Line Miner goggles when it comes to eyewear, and Celine's range comes highly sought after and reviewed by fashionable skiers. They are as technical as they are stylish.
- romina introini/@romilux
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Save when you shop for the best ski clothes for women with these Oakley discount codes at checkout.
The best après-ski clothes
The best part about après-ski is that there are no rules; you can wear what you want unless you go somewhere with a strict dress code (i.e. no hoodies/loungewear). For the most part, people go straight from the slopes to the bars in all their professional ski gear (mitts and all), but, if you want to get changed, you can't go wrong with any of the below. You can also re-wear all of it back on good ol' United Kingdom soil.
Senior Audience Development Manager Lian Brooks recommends ASOS DESIGN's Ski Scenic Jumper for something on-the-nose and fun, plus an & Other Stories' Beanie for much-needed warmth. Sophie's favourite Zara ear muffs are currently out of stock but we have our eye on these similar ASOS ones for a hat alternative.
Lian Brooks wearing ASOS DESIGN.
- romina introini/@romilux
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- romina introini/@romilux
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Save when you shop for the best ski clothes for women with these ASOS discount codes at checkout.
What should you not wear while skiing?
Save everything that's not moisture-wicking/waterproof or thermal for after you've been skiing, or wear it underneath the items that will protect you from the elements. Avoid stiff fabrics like denim as you'll find you can't move or navigate the slopes properly, and don't be tempted to double up on your socks - this can actually cause your feet to overheat and/or give you blisters if they bunch up. Buy proper ski socks that'll last beyond a ski season instead.
Should ski clothes be loose or tight? Should you buy ski clothes a size bigger?
Everything should fit you well and be snug enough to keep you warm, but not tight. It's important you have room for base layers, should you need them, and enough mobility to actually ski properly. When it comes to what size you should buy, it's recommended you opt for a size bigger than usual for your trousers. This is to make sure you're comfortable and, again, aren't restricted.
What should a beginner skier wear?
See our above recommendations, plus ski socks, ski poles and, of course, the skis themselves of course.
For more from Glamour UK's Senior Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd and freelancer Hattie Cotmore at @hattiecotmore.
