Martini Sportswear

Ski clothing

What ski clothing needs to deliver on the slopes

Snowfall in the morning, sunshine at lunchtime, wind on the ridge: weather conditions can change quickly during a day of skiing. Ski jackets and ski pants should therefore be waterproof and windproof while allowing moisture to escape from the inside. Important performance indicators include the hydrostatic head rating and breathability (MVTR). Taped seams provide additional protection by preventing water from penetrating through the seams.

But on the mountain, it’s often the small details that make a big difference: a ski pass pocket on the sleeve makes getting through the lift gates easier, while a helmet-compatible hood fits comfortably over your ski helmet when the snow starts to fall. A snow skirt prevents snow from getting inside your jacket after a fall, and adjustable cuffs with hook-and-loop fasteners help keep the wind out. Underarm vents allow excess heat to escape quickly.

Ski base layers

A ski base layer forms the foundation of your ski outfit. Worn close to the body, it moves perspiration away from the skin towards the next layer, helping your skin stay dry. This is particularly important on the lift, as damp clothing can quickly make you feel cold. Look for moisture-managing fabrics: merino wool retains warmth even when damp and naturally resists odours for longer. Synthetic fibres dry particularly quickly. Cotton, on the other hand, absorbs moisture and can leave you feeling cold, making it unsuitable as a base layer for skiing.

Discover ski base layers for women and men.

Midlayers for extra warmth

The midlayer provides insulation. It retains body heat while allowing moisture to escape. On milder days, a lightweight fleece jacket may be all you need. When temperatures drop, hybrid jackets or vests with PrimaLoft® insulation are a great choice. They are lightweight, pack down small and continue to provide warmth even when slightly damp.

Midlayer

Ski jackets as an outer protective layer

Your outermost layer is a hardshell ski jacket. Its membrane is waterproof and windproof while remaining breathable, allowing moisture from the inside to escape. This helps keep you dry even in snowfall and strong winds.

For skiing on the slopes, we particularly recommend 2-layer ski jackets. In this construction, the outer fabric and membrane are permanently bonded together, while a separate lining provides a soft feel and some additional warmth. In a 3-layer jacket, the outer fabric, membrane and inner protective layer are bonded together to form a single unit. As a result, 3-layer jackets are generally lighter and more compact, but do not provide the same soft, slightly insulating feel as a 2-layer jacket with a separate lining.

Discover ski jackets for women and men.

Ski pants for weather protection and freedom of movement

Ski pants need to handle a lot: falls in the snow, wet chairlift seats and hours of movement. That’s why waterproof, breathable materials and a cut that moves with you are essential. Wear a ski base layer underneath your ski pants. In very cold temperatures, thermal skirts or insulated shorts for women or insulated shorts for men provide additional warmth.

On mild, dry spring days, you can also opt for a lighter combination, such as softshell pants with an insulated jacket. However, softshell fabric is only water-repellent. In snowfall, hardshell pants are the better choice.

Discover ski pants for women and men here.

Gloves, socks & more: accessories for the slopes

Cold fingers or toes can quickly cut a great day of skiing short. Insulated ski gloves and well-fitting ski socks made from technical fabrics help keep your hands and feet warm and dry. Under your helmet, opt for a thin headband or a low-profile beanie. Both keep your ears warm without affecting the fit of your helmet.