Keeping warm

Preparation

• Think about who is in your group. If you are the fastest skier, you might be waiting around and will be more prone to getting cold
• Wear mittens instead of gloves
• Ensure your boots are well fitted and release your toe clips when are you on lifts and having breaks
• Keep your head warm with helmets, beanies and goggles
• A snood or scarf makes a huge difference
• Choose clothing with vents which can be opened or closed
• Layering - wear multiple thin layers, preferably wicking materials. This way, you can regulate your temperature as it changes throughout the day

When skiing

• Ski below the tree line where you are sheltered from the wind
• Avoid short runs where you never have time to get warm before getting back on a lift
• Ski in the sun – South East facing in the morning and South West facing in the afternoon
• If you are waiting around, walk up a slope - you will be warm in seconds
• Take bubble lifts and cable cars instead of chairlifts and drag lifts
• Seek out the quieter areas, the more time you spend skiing and the less you spend standing in queues, the warmer (and happier!) you will be
• Avoid getting gloves wet by keeping them on. If you do take them off, point the fingers up to avoid getting snow in them
• Try snowboarding instead - it involves much more core movement than skiing so snowboarders are always hotter!

Taking breaks

• Avoid sitting outside - you will be warm when you sit down but cold by the time you get up
• If you are getting cold, stop and go inside early before you get too cold
• Avoid alcohol, tea and coffee - try a hot chocolate instead
• Have something to eat, preferably hot, digestion will keep you warmer