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If you are buying new ski clothes there are many considerations including price and fashion. However, before looking at either of these factors it is essential to think about the four most important things that should be built into any good quality item of ski clothing. They are, waterproofing, insulation, breathability and seam sealing. This article discusses these essential qualities to help you to make the best choices when you are shopping for ski gear. Skiing is an expensive sport and the most important thing is to enjoy your time on the slopes. There is no point in looking fantastic if you are miserable.

Water Resistance

Many people are of the understanding that waterproofing and insulation are the same thing and that all ski clothes will naturally come with both. This is not necessarily the case, especially with cheaper items of ski or snowboard clothing. Waterproofing is the outer layer and is designed to keep rain and snow from penetrating to the inner layers of the garment. Often the best skiing conditions are when it is actually snowing so it is important to have a garment with a high waterproofing rating so that you can remain out in these conditions for several hours whilst remaining dry. Waterproof ratings are measured in millimetres (mm). The higher the rating of the item, the better the waterproofing properties, however it also means the higher the price. 5,000mm is generally considered adequate and anything over 10,000mm will provide you with very good protection.

Adequate Insulation

Insulation is usually separate to the waterproofing layer and is designed to keep you warm. Formerly insulation was very bulky however modern technological advancements in the materials used to make ski clothes have resulted in excellent fabrics that are light and comfortable whilst providing superior insulating properties.

Breathability

If you buy clothes that aren’t breathable, all of the moisture in your clothes – whether it’s sweat or melted snow that penetrated your protective layer – will get stuck in them and stay there. Look for clothes that have a breathability rating of 3,000 mm or higher. This will allow them to pull moisture away from your body and towards the surface of your clothes. Because of this, it’s important to make sure that all of your layers are breathable. If your base layer is breathable but the sweater you wear over it isn’t, then all of that moisture will get trapped in the sweater and continue to be pushed back against and through your base layer.

Sealed Seams

All of the above is of no use if moisture can enter through the seams of your ski clothes. When you are out in the elements for long periods of time you will end up very wet and cold if your clothing allows moisture to enter through the seams or zippers. If you buy quality ski clothes that are certified to have the other three qualities mentioned here, more than likely they will also have taped and sealed seams. Modern labelling means that it is easy to identify the quality and ratings of ski jackets and pants so ensure that you check before buying.

In conclusion, price and fashion are often considered when buying ski clothes however the four points here are of more importance. If you are on a budget you should shop around for bargains on high quality items as opposed to purchasing cheap quality ones. The best times to buy are just before the season starts or towards the end. You will also find bargains online that are of high quality but may just be last year’s models.

Cooking and snow skiing are two of my passions. I enjoy writing on a variety of food and skiing topics. Visit my latest website to learn more about Ski Cothes, and find out useful tips on how to choose the best Ski Clothing to meet your expectations.

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