After skiing with kids, every weekend for the past 9 years, I’ve got you covered on where to save and where to splurge on ski gear.
The first big question asked-Do we rent or buy skis?
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Here’s the thing. If you’re fully committing, go ahead and buy the oldest child and the adults skis. New or used. They can be handed down sibling to sibling.
If you’re not ready to fully commit these tend to be solid options:
- Rent skis for the season. Local ski shops offer season long rentals at great prices, but do go early-many sell out!
- Rent as you go. Often the best deals are found just off mountain unless you ski with a package. There are some great learn to ski packages offered at local resorts!
- Hit a ski swap. This is my favorite. Head to a local shop or high school ski swap. They’re often in September or October and you can get fantastic deals on skis!
And what about ski boots?
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Boots are more important than skis. The right fitting boots can make more of a difference in your skiing and comfort than the actual skis. Here is where you splurge.
If you’re ready to buy skis, get fitted for boots. They should be new, and they should be the right fit for each family member. We do hand down boots through our kids IF they happen to be a good fit, but if not, it’s back to the shop for a proper fitting.
Now that you’ve got your hardware figured out, let’s breakdown what goes in the boot bag.
Ski Jacket
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I love opting for a shell that can be layered with mid layers and a puffer for optimal warmth. It really comes down to preference, but make sure it is highly waterproof and wind resistant. Aim for 20,000mm or higher for heavy rain and extreme conditions and 10,000mm being a good baseline for general use.
Ski Pants
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Like the shell above, your pants will be your outer wear, so aim for waterproof and wind resistance. 20,000mm for heavy rain or 10,000mm for general use.
Boot bag
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It took some time for me to realize the best way to get on the mountain whether for a day trip or a flight to Vail, everyone needs their own boot bag. It’s the perfect organizational tool for skiers!
A great one here: https://amzn.to/3N7PVlL
Googles
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No need to splurge on googles-and these even come with magnet lens that change or day or night skiing!
link: https://amzn.to/4pCCeZX
Ski Socks
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Skiing or boarding in socks that are as close to 100% Merino wool as possible will make all the difference. You may pay up a bit, the the trade off for warm toes is more than worth it!
link: https://amzn.to/4pl540D
Face Mask
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The best and most versatile is made of a thin fleece that can fit easily under the helmet but still provide warmth.
link: https://amzn.to/4slv3Yv
Mittens/Gloves
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After many years on the slopes and some pretty decent circulation problems, mittens win my vote, hands down (no pun intended). Your hands naturally stay warmer when your fingers are not separated. Specifically gloves that are gortex (waterproof) and leather.
These are on a nice sale:
Women: https://amzn.to/4pnMMvM
Mid layer Puffer
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In all honesty, down puffers are warmest, but since this is an added layer (above your thermals and possible fleece, but below your shell) you’re just going for added warmth here.
link for women: https://amzn.to/491rO0H
link for men: https://amzn.to/4jlat6t
Base Layers
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The warmer the better when dealing with your thermals/base layers. I highly recommend a Merino wool set for maximum worth, but fleece lined will do ok too. Try to stay away from the thin material sets.
link to set for women: https://amzn.to/4pW3fIB
link to set for men: https://amzn.to/4smzG4m
Mid layer fleece
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For maximum warmth, throw a thin performance fleece over your thermals and under your puffer and shell. No need to splurge here.
Women’s: https://amzn.to/4sCWs8D
Men’s: https://amzn.to/4bedjbj
Helmet
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We all know the importance of a good helmet. And Smith makes some great ones. I highly recommend buying a helmet even if you’re renting skis.
Link: https://amzn.to/49mPifN
Hand and Toe Warmers
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Hot hands does the trick! One toe warmer and one hand warmer for every member of the family to be used each day you’re on the slopes if the temps are 32 degrees or less.
buy in bulk! https://amzn.to/4slfrUJ
Bonus: Lodge Slippers
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Nothing like taking ski boots off in the lodge after a long ski day. And these are the best things to change into while you enjoy your tendies and a beer.
link to a great bargain pair: https://amzn.to/4povVsL
So there you have it, everything you need for a good day on the slopes and when to save versus when to splurge.
Get Out There,
Meghan
*Note: Though these are my preferred and suggested items, I do receive a small commission from the links provided should you purchase from them.
Beyond The Usual Trail 