While we like escaping winter as much as the next Canuck, we also equally enjoy spending time on the slopes — be it skiing or snowboarding there’s nothing like a day on fresh powder followed by some après ski cocktails. Between Quebec and Whistler in Canada, to Aspen and Park City just south of the border, there are no shortage of great hills to get your fix. Not sure what to pack? Well, we’ve narrowed down some of the essentials you’ll want to bring on your ski vacation. Read on to find out what you’ll need to hit the slopes in style.
1. Salomon Ladies’ Snowtrip 3-in-1 III jacket, $350
You won’t get many runs in without a warm winter ski jacket. We’re fans of this versatile jacket from Salomon thanks to the removable layers that work in cold or mild conditions. You’ve got the waterproof outer softshell, plus an inner jacket that’s breathable and a hood that can be worn on or off. Cute and practical. Available at sportinglife.ca.
2. Smith Optics goggles, $155
Don’t even think about wearing sunglasses on the slopes — instead opt for a pair of stylish goggles. Great for protecting your eyes from the wind and harsh rays that reflect off the snow, these are also designed to prevent the annoying fogging that can happen thanks to its patented ventilation system. Available at sunglasshut.com.
3. Hot Paws hat
If you’re planning for a long day outside and it’s below freezing, skip the headband and go straight for a hat. Although you’ll definitely end up with a case of hat head, you’ll be much warmer and happier in the end. We think this cute jacquard print hat will do just the trick. Available at various retailers across Canada. Visit hotpawscanada.com to find one near you.
4. Stella McCartney polar bear intarsia wool and alpaca-blend sweater, $1,145
Half of the fun of a ski weekend is your time spent off the hills and the dress code is almost always comfortable casual. Think leggings, sweater dresses, jeans and UGGS. You’ll stay cozy and on theme with this ultra warm sweater by Stella McCartney. Keep it simple and pair over leggings. Available at net-a-porter.com.
5. Benefit You Rebel SPF 15 tinted moisturizer, $30
You’re not ready to leave the chalet until you’ve slathered on some SPF. We suggest using a tinted moisturizer with SPF as your base, waterproof mascara and lip balm because a full face of makeup is never required on the hills. This moisturizer by Benefit contains Aloe, which offers a nice soothing effect. Available at benefitcosmetics.com.
6. Helly Hansen HH Warm Lifa Pants Womens, $80
As with all winter outdoor activities it’s all about the layers, which is why you’ll want to pack a pair of leggings as a base layer. These pants from Helly Hansen are made from Merino Wool, meaning they’ll be breathable and beyond warm. Available at sportchek.ca.
7. Fresh Sugar Rose tinted lip balm treatment SPF 15, $23
As we mentioned earlier it’s important to protect yourself with plenty of SPF. Those rays are even harsher on the hills because you get a double whammy thanks to the reflection off the snow. Make sure your lips stay supple with a lip balm treatment like this nourishing and citrus flavoured version from Fresh, which has just enough colour to give you that just bitten look. Available at Sephora and fresh.com.
8. Sorel Boots Joan of Arc in Taffy/Port Royale, $180
Leave your heels at home and instead pack a heavy duty pair of boots, like this gorgeous pair from Sorel. Waterproof, super durable and designed to keep your tootsies warm at -25 degrees below zero, whether you’re just walking around the chalet or want to keep your feet warm between runs, these boots will do the trick. Available at getoutsidesshoes.com.
