I’ve been a keen skier since 2001, when I first stepped onto the Austrian Alps as a bushy-tailed 6 year old in my best ski wear. Other than snippets of dutifully following my ski instructor and an army of other children down the training slopes, my early snow sports memories are admittedly hazy, defined largely by what I – and my family – wore on these trips. Returning to the slopes year after year, however, I’ve gradually fine-tuned my on-piste non-negotiables and come to understand what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to ski wear in 2026.
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In the 2000s, the on-piste uniform was heavily influenced by snowboarding culture and overarching trends of the ’00s. Loose-fitting jackets and salopettes designed for freedom of movement in snowboarding and skate culture were translated into ski wear. Away from their skis and snowboards, the two were indistinguishable. Yet, as the years progressed, new trends emerged and silhouettes of bygone decades regained popularity. Sleeker, more slim-fitting designs harking back to the ’70s were re-introduced and it became easier to recognise a skier from a snowboarder by the fit of their jackets.
In recent years, a more adventurous approach to mountain dressing has emerged – and I’m not talking about the advances in technologies for off-piste outerwear. The Alps has always been a glamorous playground, where you’ll find guests cocooned in beautiful Fair Isle knits and cashmere, but recently there has been a more flamboyant approach to on-piste style. The classic heritage pieces will always remain an investment – think Fusalp’s navy and red chevron jackets and Moncler quilting – but there are also a number of new brands offering a fresher take. Retro ski suits have made a fabulous comeback over the past few years and there are lots of brands that are reimagining the one pieces Princess Diana used to wear. Think: Snowroller’s ’80s-inspired puffy suits and Cordova’s nostalgic, streamlined styles alongside Perfect Moment’s sell-out designs.
For 2026, ski wear has main-character energy, the kind that will get you noticed as you skid to a (graceful) halt outside the resort’s most chi-chi fondue spot. According to Sam Bevan, head of design at Sweaty Betty, head-turning prints, not to mention cuts, form the basis of the brand’s affordable ski wear offering. “Statement SB monogram prints take centre stage, delivered in monochrome and super-bright colourways with full print and colour-drenched silhouettes. High-waisted, sculpting power salopettes are paired with our waterproof cropped bomber, designed to enhance the natural body shape.” But as well as bold shades, which reflect this year’s approach to colour trends in general, there’s a persuasive opposite argument, which is to keep things simple in monochrome. If you don’t have the luxury of packing multiple jackets, it might streamline things somewhat to opt for black and white, keeping your colour palette as pristine as the powder.
Due to my lifelong aversion to discomfort and the cold, I have become well-versed in the language of waterproof technologies and Gore-Tex layers, finding out via trial and error which pieces are worth investing in – plus, a handful of tips and tricks for maximising warmth on the coldest days. See below, our guide for what you need to pack for a ski holiday and the latest best ski wear, whether you are carving like a pro or descending the mountain in a snow plough.
Ski one-pieces
If you want to make getting ready as easy as possible so you can make the first chair lift every morning, a streamlined all-in-one suit will mean you can step in, zip up and head out instead of mixing and matching. There’s also something fabulously throwback about them, bringing to mind the, arguably, golden era of suits combining shades like teal, violet and fuchsia, with chevron prints cinching the waist and stand-up collars (all shoppable via eBay). Today’s designer brands take a sleeker approach (favourites include Bogner, Goldbergh, Cordova and Perfect Moment), as does the high street, with monochrome suits that will register as “classic”.
Ski jackets
If you buy one thing for your trip, let it be a ski jacket. As much as you might convince yourself that your trusty puffer will cut the mustard, take it from me: it won’t. The material must be completely waterproof with some form of elastic around the waist so the icy wind can’t find its way under the hem of your jacket. Most designs will also feature a nifty ski pass pocket that will allow you to smoothly beep through the ski-lift barriers without scrambling through pockets with gloved hands. The best thing about ski jackets? Some styles will work just as well on city streets as they do on snowy mountains.
Ski trousers
Salopettes or ski trousers might be a million miles away from your usual wardrobe, but they’re an essential pre-trip purchase. You can either go for a style that flares over your ski boots, with gaiters to stop the snow travelling up the trouser leg, or you go for an in-boot stirrup leggings for those blue sky days when the snowfall is less heavy. I also like bib pants with braces, as they stop snow from entering at the waist, provide extra warmth and remain really secure while you move.
Read more: 10 Retro-Fabulous Ski Holiday All-In-Ones
Ski base layers and thermals
Base layers are really important in ensuring you are warm when skiing and there are several things you’ll want to consider. Firstly, whether you are going in winter or spring will dictate the level of insulation you will require. Thermals marketed specifically as ski base layers or thermals are most likely to be moisture wicking, but more affordable versions from Marks & Spencer and Uniqlo are highly-effective in providing warmth. That said, merino wool is the best for both keeping you warm and drying quickly, so it’s worth investing in a high-quality set where you can.
Ski goggles
Whether you love goggles or hate goggles, the fact is: you need them. Trust us, sunglasses are more suited to beach life, not a slope with moguls that you can barely see because of driving snow, low visibility and the fresh powder you’re slicing through. Goggles, on the other hand, will provide a proper barrier, shielding your eyes from the elements as you parallel turn or snow plough down the mountain. One of the most reliable brands is Oakley, the eyewear specialist that knows its way around sports kit, but you can also find stylish yet suitable versions at POC, Salomon and Vallon.
Ski socks
Please withhold judgement when I proudly divulge that I’ll be wearing the same ski socks this year as I did five years ago. When I first bought my beloved Falke socks, I couldn’t believe how much I spent on them, so I hoped that they would do what they said on the tin by withstanding heavy use and battling sub-zero temperatures. If you hadn’t already guessed, they’ve done just that. I speak from experience when I say that there isn’t anything worse than feeling uncomfortable in your ski boots and suffering from chilly toes on the slopes. A specifically designed ski sock will make a world of difference.
Ski helmets
A helmet is an essential piece of kit for a skiing trip – it’s a legal requirement in most countries and resorts now, and is so important to offer you protection. You can hire these when you arrive at the resort to save on luggage space, but if you’re a seasoned skier, it’s probably time to invest in your own.
Ski gloves
You simply can’t go skiing without ski gloves. Waterproof styles are best for keeping hands toasty, and darker colours will stay looking newer for longer. I personally suffer from Raynaud’s syndrome (as do about 1 in 20 of us) which reduces the amount of blood flow to the fingers and toes, making it hard to keep them warm. I’ve found that putting a heat pad in my gloves helps to keep them warmer for longer.
With their primary function being to support your feet as they slide into skis, a ski boot is never going to be the most comfortable footwear. That’s why, once you’ve hung up your salopettes for the day, you need snow boots to cushion your soles – and stop you slipping around, or possibly even stacking it, on your way for sustenance. Moon Boot used to rule this sphere, and still does along with Ugg, but so many fashion and activewear brands have their own versions, including Penelope Chilvers, Inuikii and Sorel, whose technically-sound pairs won’t let you down on either the cleated sole or the warmth-factor.
Read more: Shop The Best Snow Boots For Women
More layers: mid-layers and après-ski jumpers
If you’re skiing in peak winter temperatures, you’ll need a stack of mid layers – jumpers to wear on the slopes but also once you’re back in the chalet, as well as perhaps a fleece-lined gilet that will provide another pocket of air between your knit and your jacket. Since Fair Isle will always be timeless, as well as perfectly on theme, start with a patterned knit that complements your beanie and scarf.
Read more: 11 Flattering Women’s Ski Suits To Shop
Winter warmers
When you’re back in your snow boots, you’ll need a stash of woollies – preferably a hat or balaclava, gloves and a scarf – to see you through any resort-based activities. Natural fibres such as cashmere, wool and alpaca will be the most warming, not to mention the softest on your ever-so-slightly wind-beaten skin.
FAQs
What do I need to pack for a skiing holiday?
In terms of essentials to pack for daily use, you will need: a ski jacket, salopettes or one-piece, goggles, ski socks (trust me, your normal socks are not good enough) and thermal base layers. Depending on the time of year and how cold it is, it’s best to stick to the three-layer rule and bring a mid layer, such as a fleece or knitted jumper, for added warmth. I sometimes like to wear something a little more “normal” for this layer, such as a fleece-lined hoodie or a Uniqlo long-sleeve sweater. The North Face is also a great place to look for mid-layers. Finally, don’t forget to pack snow boots, such as Uggs or Moon Boots, or a comfortable pair of waterproof trainers or hiking boots.
You will also need a helmet, skis and poles or a snowboard – but these are best hired from a shop once you arrive at the resort as they’re not only expensive to buy, but take up a lot of luggage room.
Where should I shop for skiwear?
Over the past decade, luxury brands have been increasingly leaning into the ski wear market, and so now the likes of Net-a-Porter, Selfridges and MyTheresa all have impressive ski shops; stocking brands that balance performance with style. Renting is another option, and an excellent way to try high performance or more expensive looks without the commitment of buying or having to worry about where you’ll store it for the rest of the year. If you want to try renting a ski outfit this year, Selfridges, Hurr and Blanqo all have strong selections of outerwear and accessories.