The Best Gear for Dazzling, Sunny Days on the Slopes

There’s nothing like skiing under blue skies. Don’t ruin it by dressing for a blizzard.
Image may contain Clothing Apparel Coat and Raincoat
Dwight Eschliman

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more. Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

There’s nothing like skiing under dazzling blue skies. Don’t ruin it by dressing for a blizzard.

1. Trew Men’s Wander Jacket
A simple wind-blocking shell is all you need in epic weather. The trim cut of this one means it doesn’t feel like you are wearing a tent, and the lightweight construction makes it easy to pack or stuff in a backpack. If wind and clouds suddenly appear, no prob: You’re still protected.
$419

2. Faction Dictator 2.0
Engineered for hard-charging skiers, Faction’s Dictator series is super­saturated with aggressive specs: ultralight aluminum alloy skeletons; a dual radius sidecut for fast, precise turns; and a slight tail rocker that ups the fun factor in the powww.
$729

3. Smith Optics I/O 7
Skiing in sunglasses isn’t recommended beyond the bunny hill. Smith Optics’ latest goggles pair up with the company’s swappable Chroma­Pop lenses for different conditions. On the brightest days, snap in one of the antireflective lenses to nix nasty glare.
$200

4. Tecnica Freeride Cochise 130 Dyn
These ski slippers are popular with all-mountain adventurers who need rigidity but don’t want the brutal constriction of a race boot. They’re nice and stiff but light and maneuverable. Switch into the more forgiving walk mode for an après-ski stroll to the chalet.
$700

5. Snowshed 3-Season Helmet Beanie
Keeping your head warm is smart, even on beautiful days—it’s still winter, after all. Snowshed’s soft merino wool cap is thin and slight enough to fit under a helmet, so you don’t have to take it off when you strap on your safety gear.
$35


This article appears in the January issue. Subscribe now.

Styling by Pakayla Biehn