We don’t care if it’s raining or slushing out, any day on skis is a good day. But wear the wrong layers on a wet day and you’ll be cursing yourself. Here’s how to layer the right way.
We’ve all been there: The storm rolled in warmer and wetter than you’d hoped, but the skiing is still good. Call it cream cheese or hot pow or mashed potatoes or whatever you want; just get out there and make the most of it. If you live in the Pacific Northwest or Tahoe, skiing in the rain is part of what makes you a skier. You just need to know how to layer for wet conditions so you can stay out as long as possible.
Base layer: Check. You need that. You know the drill: Merino wool or synthetic base layers get the job done and dries quickly and pulls moisture away from the skin, especially on those soaked-to-your-underwear kind of storm days. To bib or not to bib can really be a toss up on a wet day. Bibs can be great storm slayers by providing that extra protection above the waist, but if it’s a super warm storm, you might not want the added fabric. The best of both worlds is the Compound Bib for men and the Siren for women. Super breathable without the full bib coverage up top.
Depending on the temperature, you might need a warming midlayer. That high humidity will put as much of a chill in your bones as a dry, cold day in the Rockies. A toasty fleece like the Pierogi for men or Katinka for women will cut that chill. If it’s really warm out and rain is your biggest threat, maybe you don’t need a midlayer—might just be a base layer and a burly waterproof shell kind of day.
No matter what’s underneath, the shell you choose will make all the difference between feeling like skiing in a garbage bag or not. For the ultimate wet-storm defense layer, call on a three-layer hardshell with a high performance Durable Water Repellent. The Lab Coat or Quantum Pro for men and Billie Coat or Lucy Jacket for women will be your answer. An over-the-cuff gauntlet glove will keep the soak away, like the Super D Glove or Super D Mitten if that’s more your style.
