If any of you live in the Northeast, you know how cold it has been the past few days. The forecast doesn't look like it's changing anytime soon either; Vermont has a forecasted high of -12 this weekend. Yes, you read that right..negative twelve! And that's without the wind chill! Heres how to stay cozy during those cold days on the slopes.
1. Start Warm.
Don't leave your equipment in the car overnight. Frozen boots, gloves, jackets, etc are not a good way to begin your sub-zero day. If you start cold, you're not going to be able to get warm.
2. Bundle up! It's all about that base.
Invest in some high quality gear and layer up. In my opinion, the
first layer is the most important. Get some warm base layers to start. I love my #marmot bottoms/tops and they keep me super warm during those frigid days. Plus, they come in fun patterns as well to add some style under it all! I also keep on hand another favorite...my #underarmour base layers which come in varying thickness depending on how cold it may be out there. My personal favorite is the UA base 4.0 crew. It's fitted, but not too tight and keeps me warm all day long. Choose what's best for you though, depending on your budget and the fit. The most important part about base layers is that they should fit snugly against your skin and be made of a nonabsorbent material. Synthetic fabrics, such as polypropylene work the best to wick the water away from your skin to keep you warm and dry.
A mid-layer is important next so that it can take the water absorbed out of your base layer to transport it further away from your body to be evaporated. Synthetics are best here as well to keep the water away from your body. Pay attention to the fit again, so that it is not too tight over your base layer, but snug enough to keep your body heat in. I personally like my mid layer with a quarter zip to give me the ability to 'fine tune' my clothing based on changing temps. I always use my #obermeyer mid layer with the 1/4 zip to keep me cozy.
An insulation layer added to your base layers will keep your body heat close to your body and prevent it from escaping to the world around you. Remember, the thickness keeps you
warm. I personally love my #eddiebauer microtherm stormdown jacket as an added layer. It really keeps the heat inside to ensure my core stays warm. Again, select an insulation layer that works best for you. Just make sure it insulates well to add to your base layers.
Then, add your outermost layer..your jacket and pants, keeping in mind most importantly that they are waterproof and windproof. My go to pants are made by #spyder and my insulated jacket is made by #salomon.
3. Accessorize!
Make sure your extremities are taken care of. Put on some ski socks with smart wool for added warmth to keep those tootsies cozy. In this case, thicker isn't better. Use one pair of socks made of high quality material. The current 'top dog' for sock material is merino wool. It's soft, cushioned and repels odor as well. If your feet are warm, you'll be on the slopes all day.
Keep your fingers cozy as well! Mittens are ideal for extreme cold temperatures. They keep less surface area in contact with the cold and use the buddy system to help all your fingers work together and generate more heat to stay warm. Choose a mitten with good insulation. I personally always make sure to have wrist straps as well, to prevent a mitten from getting lost. My pick is always by #marmot.
In extreme temps, make sure none of your skin is exposed;
prevent frostbite!! Cover up your face with a nice warm balaclava. No, not 'baklava' as a good family friend likes to joke! Theres many styles and thicknesses, but make sure you select one that is able to cover your nose as well and won't fog up your trusty goggles!
Use hand warmers throughout the day! These are a
lifesaver in negative temps and help to generate more heat for your fingers. I like to pick up a large box from Costco at the beginning of the season to have on hand. Make sure you take them out for at least 15 minutes prior to use!
4. Take breaks. And lots of them.
Don't be afraid to go in the lodge whether it be at the summit, mid-mountain or the base. It's important to give your body the break to re-heat itself. Don't worry, theres plenty of snow to shred when you get back out there. While you're in the lodge, make sure to re-energize as well with a hearty snack. Your body uses a lot of energy to keep warm. Give it back some nutrients so you can keep tearing it up on the mountain with energy.
5. Hot Chocolate...or Peppermint Hot Schnapplates
...and while you're taking that break to warm up and re-energize, why don't you grab a hot chocolate, or my personal favorite 'adult beverage': the hot schnapplates. Nice warm hot chocolate with some added peppermint schnapps. Keeps you warm and fuzzy. But don't have too many or you won't be back on the slopes. Safety is key.
6. Take lifts that are enclosed when available
Take advantage of the gondola. It will give you relief from the sub zero temps and wind chill and it can give your toes and fingers time to warm up before zooming down the mountain again. If you're lucky and are at a mountain with 'the bubble' chair, like Okemo here in VT, use that as much as you can as well! The brief relief from the cold will keep you skiing all day long.
Hopefully these tips will help keep you cozy during those frigid days. Have your own tips? Share them below. And remember...
"Paradise doesn't have to be tropical"
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