What to wear for ski touring

Home » Blog » Outdoor Gear » What to wear for ski touring
ski touring clothing and equipment

List of recommended clothing to wear for ski touring and backcountry skiing.

  • Wicking underwear
  • Baselayer top
  • Baselayer leggings
  • Mid layers
  • Ski socks
  • Shell trousers
  • Shell jacket
  • Mountaineering/ski gloves
  • Warm hat
  • Neck gaiter
  • Ski touring boots / snowboard boots (H)
  • Avalanche transceiver (H)
  • Helmet (H)
  • Goggles

(H) Hire locally, (L) Group leader, Not all items always needed!

What to wear ski touring

A thin base layer top with short sleeves or a neck zip helps you keep cool and avoid overheating on the ascents. Trekking trousers may not fit ski boots, or be warm enough, so base layer leggings may be better. Good backcountry ski layers tend to be thin, breathable and quick-drying to cope with changes in temperature. Wear a proper mountain shell jacket, or a ‘soft shell’ jacket in drier conditions. A single pair of ski socks work very well for backcountry use. For ski touring, ski shell trousers often fit better over ski boots than mountaineering shell trousers, but it depends on the design. A warm hat and spare mountaineering gloves are essential. A ski or mountaineering helmet is recommended, which can be swapped for a baseball cap on easy terrain to give UV protection. Your avalanche transceiver is far better worn at the start of the day, than packed in your rucksack! A neck gaiter can be a handy and versatile thing to wear (eg: Buff).

ski touring clothing and equipment
Selection of clothing to wear ski touring

What boots to wear for ski touring?

Ski touring boots can be hired locally, but check whatever boots you wear are compatible with your touring bindings. Unless you are doing a big walk-in, put your touring boots on at the trailhead. If you are prone to blisters, get plasters on your feet early.

Also see:

Are you a guest on an Arc Guiding trip?

Check with the guide when deciding what to wear/pack. Choose items from the list depending on the weather, route and type of group.

FAQ

How do I wear my avalanche beacon/transceiver?

You can wear your transceiver in it’s chest harness, under your outer jacket. Alternatively, in a trouser leg pocket, but it must be securely tethered.

What type of boots do you need for backcountry ski touring?

Various boots can work for ski touring, but they must be compatible with your bindings and safe to walk in. You might even wear your trainers, if you are doing a long walk in!

Ski touring training group