FAQs
Over 20 years of experience has taught us that some questions never change and neither do some of the answers. Weve listed some of the most commonly asked questions, and their answers here. Please go to our Ask The Expert pages for specific queries not covered here.
1. Im going away skiing/snowboarding what jacket should I buy?
When going on a winter holiday you should consider the following:
Where are you going on holiday? What is the average temperature at that time of year? and What is your budget?
On the east coast of Canada the temperatures can get very cold and a down jacket will be just the ticket. If you are in skiing Europe in springtime a shell jacket with plenty of vents will serve you well.
If you layer up you will be ready for all conditions. A base (thermal) layer, a mid (fleece) layer and a jacket will give you the perfect combination to suit changeable weather.
Take these things into consideration and you will start to get a better idea of what jacket is right for you.
2. I suffer from bad circulation and feel the cold- do you have any tips?
Layers of clothing that trap warm air are an effective insulator. They can also be added or removed throughout the day according to conditions. Our personal regime for those whole feel the cold is a thin, moisture wicking base layer or thermal top such as our Snow+Rock Thermals, followed by a mid layer top such as those by IceBreaker, and finally a product that keeps your core warm, such as the Valdez Primaloft Gilet by Salomon. Other hot tips for someone who feels the cold is a fleece neck warmer (I wear this most days and just carry my hat for snowy conditions), and boot heaters- the best purchase I ever made!
3. I have a pair of leather gloves which I love to wear but they get very wet - how should I look after them?
Leather gloves should be treated the same as a pair of leather shoes. They need to be proofed before use and this should be done frequently depending on snow conditions. We recommend Nikwax Fabric and Leather proofing (Itm is often convenient do this as as you pack your bag). At the end of a powder day gloves are wet so dry them slowly in a warm place (never directly onto a hot radiator), then reproof them before going out again the following day.
4. I have a white ski jacket which needs cleaning - I had thought of dry cleaning - can you advise the best method?
The most effective way to clean your outerwear is in a washing machine on a cold wash with non biological washing powder, or a product such as Nikwax Tech Wash, followed by a spin and then hang the garment on a washing line in warm sunshine, or dry on a hanger in a warm room. I only use dry cleaning as a last resort if the garment cannot be washed and has a dry clean only label inside. Irons (if used at all- read the care label of your garment) should always be on a cool setting. We find if you hang your garments out on a line or hanger they rarely need an iron.
5. I suffer from bad circulation and get very cold hands - what gloves do you suggest?
Mitts are generally warmer than gloves as your fingers are less exposed and the generated heat is shared by all your digits. Try a pair of silk inner gloves - they will increase insulation by trapping another layer of warm air around the hand. Hand warmers are another great idea, these small sachets once shaken stay warm for up to 8 hours and are perfect to wear over a liner in your glove - put some in your pockets for cold evenings in the resort too.
6. How should my gloves fit?
Gloves should be snug but not tight. If there is too much space in your gloves they will take longer for your body to warm the air around the hand and will lose heat more rapidly. However, if they are too tight they will constrict motion which slows circulation and causes coldness. Gripping a ski pole comfortably is a good indication of fit.
7. Will I need goggles if I already have sunglasses?
Goggles are a vital part of equipment that should always be carried on the mountains. Weather can change quickly and sunglasses will not protect your eyes and face in harsh conditions. Goggles cover more of your face and create a complete seal around your eyes to keep out wind and snow so you can get down the mountain more safely. Look for a low light lens such as rose or amber for use in primarily poor conditions. To get a complete guide to all lenses click here.
8. Do I really need thermals?
A wicking base-layer is crucial to the performance of your ski/snowboard outerwear and will keep you warm, dry and comfortable on the mountain. A proper base-layer transports moisture (perspiration) from the skin and allows it to escape through the breathable fabric of your outerwear. For maximum performance your base-layer should be snug fitting so the moisture transfers directly from your skin to the fabric. By wearing a wicking base-layer no moisture is held next to the skin (as a cotton t-shirt would) so you stay dry and comfortable, this is particularly important when the activity causing perspiration ceases, for example when you catch a chair lift back up the hill as if your base-layer is damp the body will then start to cool rapidly. A good wicking base-layer will also provide excellent insulation in cold conditions as the dry fabric traps a layer of air around the body - keeping you warm.
9. I am going skiing for the first time, what clothing will I need to take with me?
This is very much dependant on where you are going and at what time of year, during particularly cold times thermal base layers ( top and long johns), a mid layer fleece, a 3 in 1 insulated jacket, insulated pants, gloves and glove warmers, socks and toe warmers a hat and goggles.
In warmer conditions a light base layer top, a shell jacket, pants, socks and gloves should be sufficient.
10. What is Soft Shell Technology and what is it used for?
Soft Shell came about as an alternative to layering, the Soft Shell is often used instead of the top two layers of the traditional layering system, the fabric used is soft flexible and often incorporates stretch element. The breathability of a Soft Shell is far superior to that of a Hard Shell and although not 100% waterproof it is highly water resistant. The Soft Shell is ideal for most outdoor pursuits and allows for high levels of activity, without compromising on comfort.