Choosing your ski accessories wisely

1. Why accessories are essential

Accessories are not just "extras": they make all the difference between an enjoyable day and a challenging one.
 They ensure your comfort, safety, and sometimes your performance on the slopes.

Good equipment guarantees enjoyment from the first run to the last.

 

2. Ski goggles or glasses

Purpose:

Protect eyes from wind, cold, snow, and especially UV rays (very strong in the mountains).

How to choose:

  • UV protection category:

    • Cat. 1 → low light / fog

    • Cat. 2 → variable weather

    • Cat. 3 → strong sun (ideal most of the time)

    • Cat. 4 → very strong light (high mountain, glacier)

  • Photochromic lens: automatically adjusts to light.

  • Double lens + anti-fog treatment: prevents condensation.

  • Size / helmet compatibility: goggles should fit the face snugly.

For children, choose impact-resistant lenses and a secure fit.

 

3. Gloves or mittens

Objective:

Keep hands warm, dry, and free to move.

Types:

Type

Advantages

Ideal for

Gloves

Precision, dexterity

Piste skiing / freestyle

Mittens

Maximum warmth

Cold conditions / children

3-finger gloves

Compromise between warmth / mobility

Freeride / off-piste

Check the membrane: Gore-Tex®, Dryride®, or Softshell ensure good waterproofing.


4. Neck warmer or balaclava

  • Fleece / merino neck warmer → warmth and comfort.

  • Neoprene balaclava → complete protection (wind and intense cold).

  • Multifunction Buff → adaptable to conditions.

Always avoid cotton: it retains moisture and gets cold.


5. Ski socks

Often underestimated, they play a huge role in thermal comfort and circulation.

  • Material: merino wool, polyamide, or technical blend.

  • Thickness: thin for performance, medium for comfort.

  • Compression: improves circulation and reduces fatigue.

One thin pair is better than two thick pairs, which create wrinkles and blisters.

 

6. Ski helmet

Essential, it protects the head from impacts on or off-piste.
 (A complete guide already exists on this topic, but here's a quick summary)

  • CE EN 1077 standard: mandatory for safety.

  • Weight: light = more comfortable.

  • Adjustable ventilation: to prevent overheating.

  • Removable ear pads: ideal at the end of the season.

  • Goggle compatibility: the helmet should fit snugly with the goggles.

A well-fitting helmet should neither move nor pinch.

 

7. Sunscreen & lip balm

The mountain sun reflects off the snow → very quick sunburn.

  • SPF 50+ factor is mandatory.

  • Anti-UV lip balm to prevent chapping.

  • Reapply every 2 to 3 hours.

Even on cloudy days, UV rays penetrate the clouds!

 

8. Ski backpack

Depending on your activity:

  • Piste: small 10–15 L bag for water, snack, spare goggles.

  • Freeride / Touring: 20–30 L bag with ski holder and avalanche safety gear.

  • Snowpark / leisure: compact and lightweight, not hindering rotations.

Check for a waist and chest strap for stability.


9. Avalanche safety (off-piste)

Essential for any freerider:

  • Avalanche Transceiver (DVA)

  • Shovel

  • Probe

  • Airbag backpack (optional but highly recommended)

A good rider is a rider trained in safety.


10. Care and storage

✅ Dry each accessory after use.
 ✅ Never let them soak (especially gloves and socks).
 ✅ Store in a dry place, at room temperature.
✅ Check seams, zippers, and fasteners each season.

Maintaining your gear prolongs its lifespan — and avoids unpleasant surprises on the slopes.