Today is the official start of Winter!  Burrrr.  

With the 2014 Winter Olympics just around the corner and fresh powder on the mountain  it is certain that over the next few weeks you are going to feel Jack Frost’s chilly hands pulling you toward snowy destinations!

After all, who can resist days filled with snowy hill tops and nights nestled by a roaring fire?  Snow crunching under foot and the peaceful silence of  snow falling.

Just remember going to the mountains is serious business for your body and your skin, so it’s important to be prepared!

Whether you are headed to Aspen to ski, Sochi for the Olympics, Vancouver to snowboard,  or just your local mountain top for sledding, here are 8 Snowy essentials to help you meet the cold in style.

1. The right clothing and The 3-Layer System.  This is the Holy Trinity to outdoor enthusiasts and it includes:

• Base / Inner Layer – Worn directly against the skin, this layer’s primary function is wick away moisture towards the outer 2 layers where it will eventually evaporate.  Helly Hansen HH One Base Layer Top and Bottom. 
• Insulating / Middle Layer – This layers function is to insulate heat to maximize warmth. It also helps facilitate the transfer of moisture wicked by the base layer on to the outer layer.  Helly Hansen Freeze Prowool Half Zip Turtleneck.
• Shell / Outer Layer – As the name suggests, this layers function is to provide protection against wind and/or rain while also allowing the moisture received from the middle layer to be wicked away and ultimately evaporate. Helly Hansen Ski Jacket and pants.  Hit the slopes in warmth and safety in a waterproof, breathable HellyTech® Performance ski jacket that features a RECCO avalanche-rescue reflector built right in, and is insulated with 133g of WarmCore by PrimaLoft® insulation.Helly Tech technology uses both hydrophilic and microporous technology, which meant the apparel is both waterproof and breathable.

2. Warm socks plus and extra pair.  My snowy sock recommend is Stance’s Snow Socks. Made of merino wool, they keep your tootsies warm plus have a luxe a plush feel.  It’s Y Gore Seam and an elastic arch and ankle support cradle your feet for ultimate comfort.  I always bring an extra pair to the mountain just in case my socks somehow get wet.

3. Sunglasses and goggles. You never know when the weather is going to turn – it can go from bluebird skies to blistering cold snow flurries in an instant. If you only have room for one, pack your goggles, as they can protect in both circumstances. Spy Optic Marshall Snow Goggles. Triple-layer Isotron™ face foam offers padded comfort in tough goggles custom-crafted with a lightweight, flexible polyurethane frame and antiscratch lenses. A patented Scoop® ventilation system ensures fog-free wear, while a ribbed silicone strap keeps goggles comfortably in place.

4. Sunscreen.  Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you should skip the sunscreen!  The combination of higher altitude and UV rays reflected by the snow puts skiers and snowboarders at an increased risk of sun damage.  Keihl’s Cross-Terrain UV Skin Protector is water and sweat resistant, applies quick and clear plus it comes in a hockey puck-style container that fits easily in a pocket and won’t leak or burst open make a mess like tube sunscreens. Provides optimum UVA/UVB broad-spectrum protection against sunburn in even the most extreme weather conditions.

5. Footwear with a Retro WOW.  Moonboots soared to popularity in the 1970s when Giancarlo Zanatta launched this lunar-inspired footwear label. Turning Astronauts heavy duty boots into a firm après ski favorite, the Italian brand has since added designer collabs, punchy prints and faux fur trims into its mix of iconic styles. Comfy and warm with a lightweight, metallic fabric upper and foam lining for warmth, Moonboots offer great traction in the snow plus they just look really cool. Classic Nylon Moonboot.

6. Gloves.  Mittens won’t do.  You need something water proof and insulated, remember snow is wet when you touch it and knit mittens will be soaked in seconds!  Keep your hands warm and dry on the slopes with the Stella BOA by Celtek™. Warm insulated glove with heat pocket. BOA closure system features a lightweight yet durable dial that provides a secure, comfortable, and truly customized fit.Included touch screen compatible, removable liners so you can Instagram how cute you look!

7. Hat.  Keep your head warm while showing some personality.  Nothing says ski like a pom pom beanie! (Don’t forget to check out my 5 ways to wear a Beanie!)  Smartwool Ski Town Hat.

8. Neck Gaitor.  Scarves can get tangled and make a mess.  Try a neck gaitor instead.  You can pull them up to keep your face and ears warm too! Sweaty Betty Expedition Neck Gaitor.

 

Shop the Post: