Tips to Stay Warm on the Coldest Days

Skiing and snowboarding are great ways to make the most of outdoors in winter, and you don’t want to miss a day of shredding just because the mercury has dropped. Follow these tricks from Killington Sports Retail Manager, Rob Frei, to stay warm and on the mountain.

We're looking at a chilly forecast this weekend. How should we prepare?

"There are so many good ways to stay warm out there. Your face being covered is key - keep an eye out for your friends and watch for white spots on exposed skin, because that's the start of frostbite. Gaiters, balaclavas, anything warm and dry over your face is really important. Remember that the effects of wind chill are only felt on bare skin – so cover up.”

Face coverage, check. What's next? Hats and gloves, right?

"Hats get wet, and wet is cold. Helmets are warmer than hats and provide protection from falls. Helmet technology has come a long way in the last few years - all-weather liners, Bluetooth compatibility, custom venting and sizing, goggle integration - and that's just the beginning. Every head is unique, and you can really hone in your fit with modern helmets."

So, helmets and gloves. What else?

"I'd actually recommend mittens over gloves. They let your fingers snuggle together, trapping all the warmth in one place. Look for a down-insulated mitten with a liner and grab a pair of wool socks. Layers may be good elsewhere, but not on your feet. Stick to one pair of quality socks. Layering socks can actually make your feel colder. Hand warmers and toe warmers always help, too. It's the best $3 you'll spend all day.

Any other new tech we should watch out for?

"Goggles are really great in cold weather. We suggest the Smith I/O Mag Unisex Goggle or something similar. Its MAG lens change system is designed for optimized performance and fit. Moreover, it utilizes anti-fog technology. You want a goggle that integrates well with your helmet for the best face and eye protection and fog prevention. It's a way better option than sunglasses.”

“There’s also heated gloves and socks available these days! If you can’t seem to keep your fingers and toes warm while skiing and riding, these are for you."

Any final tips?

"Wear three layers. A warm base layer, a mid-layer like a thin puffy, and a wind-proof outer layer. You'll keep your temperature more consistent when heading in and out of doors."

"Ride the K-1 Gondola, Skyeship Gondola, or Snowdon Six Express Bubble Chair every other run - the cabins and bubble provide relief from the wind and will give you a chance to warm up a bit."

"Eat a big breakfast and drink plenty of water when you're inside – your body needs fuel and fluids to stay warm so keep the calories and water flowing throughout the day."