Skiing and snowboarding are invigorating sports. Your enjoyment will be directly affected by your physical comfort or discomfort. Here are some tips on what to bring and what to wear.

Your Body

Wear layers - 2-3 medium layers are usually warmer than one bulky garment. Air trapped between layers insulates. Keeping your torso warm allows it to send its excess heat to your less well-insulated extremities. Make sure your outer layer is a fabric that is relatively waterproof and windproof.

Cover Your Head

Your head is an escape valve for more than 50% of your body heat. Keep your head and ears covered with a hat or helmet. A neck gator or scarf is a good piece of clothing that keeps cold air from getting on your neck.

Your Face

You'll be amazed how much warmer and comfortable you feel if your face is protected. Use a face mask or pull your scarf or neck gator up over your mouth and nose. Use lip balm for your lips.

Your Eyes

Goggles help protect the face and keep eyes covered and work well when it is snowing or very cold. On a bright sunny day, dark goggles or UV protecting sunglasses, covering all sides of your eyes, work also.

Your Hands

Your hands should be covered with well-insulated, waterproof, and breathable material. Mittens may better protect your hands than gloves. Glove liners help.

Your Feet

Wool socks are warm and also absorb moisture. You can get wool-blends in a lightweight yet extremely warm material made especially for skiing, snowboarding, or hiking.

Dress properly to withstand cold temperatures and to negate the effect of the wind. Dress for warmth, but remember, temperatures can vary significantly. When you dress, keep in mind that you can always peel off a layer or two if you feel that you are dressed too warmly.