Which ski suits are better. How to choose the right ski suit

Such a snowy, such dazzlingly beautiful winter! What winter fun can be more exciting than skiing? But for such a holiday, you need the appropriate equipment.

Mining ski suit- the thing is not only comfortable, warm and beautiful, but also, of course, technological. Modern ski suits are developed in laboratories and go through many stages of testing. However, not every ordinary mortal will understand all the fancy characteristics and mysterious signs on the labels. It is important to understand that the most expensive model is not always the best. In some cases, you will overpay for the design or for the brand, while the main qualities of ski clothing will not be at the highest level.

A ski suit is a whole set of accessories and clothing, the choice of which is strictly individual. This set includes: pants, jacket, thermal underwear, glasses and gloves.

If you go to the mountains in a fancy suit (pants + jacket), while wearing plain cotton underwear and a woolen sweater on your body, good effect do not wait. A ski suit should not be extremely warm, its main task is to prevent the body from getting wet during active riding, and at the same time breathe. What happens if you wear wool and cotton under the bottom? You feel warm at first, but when you get hot, your body starts sweating and these natural materials collect moisture. Then you cool down, but this moisture does not go anywhere, and as a result, a sharp temperature drop and a cold. For this reason, special thermal underwear has been developed from synthetic materials, the main task of which is to wick moisture away.

What should you look for when choosing a ski suit?

Waterproof ski jacket

First indicator: water resistance. This indicator shows how much water pressure the product material can hold. This indicator is measured in millimeters of a water column (mm h.st.). The higher the number, the better.

A good ski suit has a water resistance rating of 10,000 (m.w.) and above.

Vapor permeability of a ski jacket

The second indicator is very important. It largely determines whether your skiing will be comfortable and long-lasting. The vapor permeability coefficient shows how much vapor a material can pass per day per square meter. Again, the higher this indicator, the better body will "breathe" under all this equipment. Under heavy loads, the vapor permeability of a ski jacket should reach a value of 20,000 g / m2 / day, with loads of medium intensity - 10,000 g / m2 / day, but if you are a beginner, and no special loads are expected, then 5000 g / m2 / day will do.

What you need to know about membrane suits?

Ski suits with membranes have the best indicators of water resistance and vapor permeability. At the moment, there are 3 types of membranes: hydrophilic, pore and combined.

The first type works on the principle that in order for moisture to begin to be removed to the outside, a sufficient amount of condensate must accumulate on the surface of the membrane. For this reason, the first type of suits are always slightly damp. However, this material is very durable and elastic, does not require the purchase of a special washing shampoo.

Pore ​​membranes They work on the principle that microscopic holes (pores) allow steam to pass through, but not water. Such membranes work only at very low temperatures, but do not work in the rain. Products with such membranes are very short-lived and require careful treatment.

The most modern at the moment are. They combine best qualities the first two types, but also disadvantages. Suits made of such material stretch perfectly, wick moisture away, but at the same time do not work well in high humidity conditions. It is the third type that has the highest vapor permeability and water resistance and is ideal for extreme conditions. Prices for such suits tend to bite the most.

How to properly wash a ski suit with membranes?

Unfortunately, not all manufacturers write on labels about how to properly care for such expensive suits. But after two or three washes in washing machine with powder, all the useful qualities of suits with membranes are simply lost. When purchasing a product, check with a sales assistant if it requires special care. As a rule, specialized stores sell special shampoos for washing products with climatic membranes.

The rule of three layers

Choosing a good suit (pants + jacket) is not all. Correct equipment assumes the presence of three layers, the first of which removes moisture from the body, the second prevents it from freezing, and the third protects against wind, snow and rain. We have already talked about the third layer, this is our costume. But what are the second and first layers?

The first obligatory layer is thermal underwear. It should be your size, in no case should it be free for you. It is better not to save on thermal underwear, it should be hypoallergenic and seamless, the material is polyester.

The second layer of equipment is insulation. It can be a variety of sweaters or vests made of synthetic materials. Tip: in some models of jackets, the insulation is part of the ski suit, it is better that the second layer is separate from the third.

This was an article on how to choose the right ski suit, I hope the information was useful to you!

Riding on the slopes without a good ski suit is like riding a hare on a train. Maybe you will pass a couple of kilometers, but you should not count on more. Of course, no one will throw you off the track as a free rider. You yourself will not be able to continue on your way. Therefore, it is very important to figure out which ski clothing is the best.

Now there are so many options on the market with different designs and price ranges that choosing the one that will become your reliable protector and assistant on mountain trips is no easier than buying a computer or TV. Therefore, we will try to give you tips and advice to help you in purchasing the right protective suit. In this article, we consider the parameters by which the the best manufacturers famous brands ski suits.

How not to be mistaken in choosing a suit

It is not for nothing that we compared the elements of an athlete's outfit with electronics. Scientists in laboratories are working on the development of materials for sewing protective sportswear. The purpose of their work is to create a product that will reliably protect from snow, wind and rain, but at the same time will be as light and comfortable as possible. That is why the details of the equipment are most often made of synthetics. This material has been specially adapted to the needs of skiers, unlike natural cotton, down or wool. It is better to forget about them altogether when choosing clothes for this kind of sport.

We will try to explain why:

  • Cotton is not water-repellent. With active movements, you will certainly sweat, cotton underwear under the suit will get wet and saturated with moisture through and through.
  • Down and wool provide excellent warmth, but are not suitable for thermoregulation. You will quickly become hot, and you will not be able to continue. If you still want to buy outerwear with natural filling, make sure that the material has undergone special processing. Without impregnation, it will quickly get wet.
The right skier's gear is three well-chosen layers, each of which is responsible for a certain level of protection. If at least one of the layers does not have the necessary characteristics, then you can forget about long-term skiing. You will either suffer from the heat or shiver from the cold, quickly get tired and get off the track.

This is what a full three-layer athlete's outfit consists of:

  • the first layer - the inner one, is necessary in order to remove moisture from the body;
  • the second layer - serves to retain heat and maintain a comfortable temperature;
  • the third layer - performs a barrier function, provides protection against harsh climatic conditions: snow, rain, wind;
Remember, the prettiest ski suits and the finest quality ski suits are not the same thing. Therefore, when buying, consider not only aesthetic characteristics. Think about whether you will be comfortable, comfortable and warm. The models presented in the catalog of the online store "Stayer" combine stylish design and excellent protective parameters.

Let's start with the choice of the inner layer and consider the main quality criteria.

We buy the right thermal underwear

The formation of a comfortable and functional skier's outfit begins with it. Regular underwear is not suitable for this. In it, you run the risk of freezing, catching a cold, or vice versa - sweating a lot. In specialized stores, you can find many options for underpants and jumpers designed for winter sports.

You should be guided by these criteria in order not to be mistaken with the choice of suitable linen:


  • First of all, ergonomics are important.
  • Anatomical features for male and female models.
  • Elasticity of the fabric.
  • Flat seams.
  • The tightness of the elastic.
  • The right size.
  • Removing moisture from the body.
  • No allergic reaction to tissue.
  • Thermal protective properties.
If you cannot decide on the fabric, we advise you to choose the most popular and optimal option in this case - polyester. Don't be afraid of synthetics. Modern, artificially created materials are specially adapted for winter sports and do an excellent job with the water-repellent and thermal protection function. In addition, they are hypoallergenic, do not cause irritation, itching and redness on the skin.

If you still prefer clothes made from natural materials, you should take a closer look at models made of merino or sheep wool... Among all the options, this is the most successful. And it is best to give preference to mixed products. They combine the best qualities of synthetics and natural fabrics. Of course, such clothes will cost a little more, but the characteristics and quality are worth the money spent.
But what you should definitely avoid is impregnated thermal underwear. A cheap option, but not very useful in alpine skiing. You can ride in it immediately after purchase. But after a few washes, the fabric will cease to remove moisture and warm the body.

Also, when choosing a kit, try to find models with the least number of seams. Such clothes fit better, do not chafe or cause discomfort to the body.

Choosing the best filler for a cool ski suit

The inner filling of your jacket and trousers determines how long you can maintain your initial body temperature during sports. It is important that the material is not only warm, but also thermoregulatory.


What fillers and fabrics are most often used as insulation:

  • Down, usually swan or eider down. Contains several levels of elasticity. Of these, the highest and most reliable is 750 units. Despite its popularity, it is far from the best way to equip a professional skier. If water gets in, the material rolls and falls off, even if impregnation is present. This greatly reduces the ability to retain and retain heat.
  • Sintepon is another unsuccessful example of a material for insulation. The best modern manufacturers of ski clothing have long abandoned its use. It prevents the body from breathing and rolls off after washing.
  • Fleece is a good choice for the athlete. It perfectly protects the body from cold and wicks moisture away. Moreover, the layer is quite thin. Allows you to move freely and does not hinder movement.
  • Polartec is a synthetic fabric, which is a type of polyester. Soft, warm, the effect is achieved by maintaining an air gap between the villi.
  • Thinsulate is the highest quality and most reliable option. Slim, hygienic, hypoallergenic. Allows the skin to breathe, does not roll or shrink after washing, dries quickly when moisture gets in. It is not cheap, but the price is justified by the positive characteristics.

It is not worth saving on insulation. This does not mean at all that you need to take the most expensive model. But remember, quality costs money. Insulated products from the Stayer company are notable for the fact that they can be used not only for sports, but also for everyday wear due to their versatile design. Shelter is another polyester microfiber insulation used in Stayer models. It perfectly retains heat and performs all the functions of a filler that are so necessary for alpine skiing enthusiasts.

Protective layer: we purchase a jacket and trousers

The final and most difficult stage is the choice outerwear... It should be not only beautiful, but also practical. To decide for yourself which ski clothing company is the best, remember four basic criteria. A good suit should:

  • keep warm (but not hot in it);
  • be light;
  • do not restrict movement;
  • ensure dryness;
On the website of the online store "Stayer" you will find models for every taste. We stock trousers, jackets, parkas, overalls designed for all weather conditions. And the most famous and best brands for skiing are:
  • Colmar
  • Bogner
  • Goldwin
  • Killy
  • Vuarnet
  • Stayer
A separate topic for discussion is the material from which the elements of skiers' equipment are made. In order to produce one unit of goods, the manufacturer needs to purchase many expensive parts and blanks: fittings with water-repellent properties, high-quality and reliable insulation. Accordingly, the cost of the product increases. For this reason, companies are looking for a variety of ways to cut production costs while reducing the price of a product only marginally.

The most common way to achieve this goal is to replace an expensive membrane with a more budgetary, but inferior in quality characteristics option - impregnation. It seems to the buyer that he is purchasing a cheaper option with the same characteristics. However, the readings will decrease by 30% after the first wash. Therefore, several times carefully study all the parameters on the label before making the final choice.



Membrane fabric in ski suit

This protection is the best for both professionals and amateurs. But the choice of a membrane also has its own characteristics that must be taken into account when buying a product. Not every material is able to keep the body dry and warm. Here are the types of fabric, models of which are represented by modern brands:

  • Hydrophilic membranes. Otherwise, they are called non-porous. Moisture-repellent properties are achieved due to their structure. Long-lasting, elastic material, does not require special maintenance, but only withstands medium temperatures. In extreme frosts, this protection is not enough.
  • Pore-structured material. Its peculiarity is that water cannot seep through it, but steam passes perfectly. Such clothing prevents overheating of the body, but does not protect against sweat. Therefore, it is better not to use it at high or medium temperatures. But in severe frost, it provides heat retention for a long time.
In general, such products combine all the positive qualities of both types of fabric: durability, moisture resistance, excellent thermoregulation and elasticity.

We read the information on the label

Some important subtleties that are indicated on the label are crucial when choosing a skier's equipment. To understand which brand of ski suit is better to choose, carefully study the numbers on the label before buying. They demonstrate:

  • resistance to natural influences: snow, rain, wind, frost;
  • vapor permeability;
  • moisture resistance;
Whether you are a recreational skier, ski resort or professional sportsman, choose the level of protection that suits you. According to the indicators of the criteria for water resistance / air permeability, the following values ​​are distinguished:
  • Driving at low or medium speed on a short slope with a temperate climate - 8000/10000.
  • Driving at high speed, extreme climatic conditions - 10000/8000 and above.
  • Freeriding for 5-6 hours continuously in high snow, at high speeds - 15000/15000 or 20000/15000.
Choose quality clothes, and then skiing or snowboarding will bring you only positive emotions.

Congratulations, you are a happy owner of alpine skiing. But they require special equipment, the selection of which requires special attention - otherwise you risk paying for your health by catching a cold in the cold winter on the track.

The set includes not only a pair of "jacket + trousers", but also underwear, on which it is not customary to save money - it also depends on it whether you tremble under the gusts of the icy wind or return home only slightly reddened from its pressure.

How to choose ski clothing- a question that is not so easy to answer. All because of the complexity of the process itself, because in order to descend from the snow-capped peaks at high speed, you must take care not only of what is outside, but also of what will protect you from the inside. Collect the complete set, and you are guaranteed a sea of ​​impressions instead of the only desire to quickly get into the heat and keep warm.

What to look for when selecting

  • On the material. Fluff and wool are not suitable, because they easily collect moisture and quickly get wet. As a result, you will quickly freeze and fall ill after the first ride. Do you want your first experience to be remembered for a long time? Then give preference to fabrics with high water resistance and vapor permeability. With it, you are not afraid of wet snow flying from all sides.
  • On the inside of a jacket, pants, overalls. It should be made of fleece. This is a type of knitwear that easily absorbs moisture - do not forget that wet clothes will lead to best case to mild colds, at worst - to pneumonia. Take the time to see what kind of insulation the manufacturers used. It should retain its properties after many washes. Let's go through the indicators. From 40 to 70 g / m2 is clothing for a comparatively warm winter, 200 g / sq.m. - extreme conditions and activities that do not involve high level activity, good for fishing, but not for skiing. The best option is 100 g / m2.
  • The number of layers - and this is important. You do not have to be dressed "in a hundred fur coats", but you should not go down the slope lightly either. Three layers is what you need. The first is good thermal underwear and underwear, the second is a jacket or sweater, the third is pants and a jacket / overalls. The latter should be from especially thick fabric- Windproof and moisture resistant.

How to Dress for Skiing for Winter Vacations: A Few General Guidelines

  • If you choose pants, make sure that the legs are reasonably narrow, but also check whether it is easy to perform simple actions in them - squat, bounce, bend over. Be guided by your own comfort. If you don't feel it, look further.
  • When shopping for a jacket, make sure it has a lot of pockets. It would seem a trifle, but it is important - you can put your phone in one, other things that will be useful during outdoor activities in the second, and so on. On Stayer models, the cuts are laser cut and the fastening is thermally welded. And there is also a convenient pocket for ski-pass and one internal one - you can put documents in it.
  • Do not forget that the hood should be adjustable to fit your head so that you do not get blown while riding.
  • The jacket should tightly cover the lower back and about 10 cm - the pants. For example how best models from Stayer, which, among other things, have a function to adjust the fit on the hips.
  • Sweaters or sweaters should be fleece. As we said, it absorbs moisture well and retains heat reliably.



A few words about thermal underwear

Modern designs are entirely made of synthetics, but this is not something to be afraid of. In this case, the material is more than appropriate: the skin underneath "breathes", the fabric itself dries quickly. In addition, it does not cause allergies, is made without seams and folds, and fits perfectly on the body. Another plus - such underwear will never stretch and turn into a rag.

What is contraindicated:

  • Wool and cotton are not our option. Why - have already been written.
  • Pleats are everywhere - even on the toes. The fabric should fit the body well. In a sense, this is your second skin.
And now the conclusion: underwear for a person who is fond of alpine skiing and other active winter sports, should be primarily functional. It performs both a protective and a practical function. It should be comfortable and warm, no matter what movements you make. Choose a model according to your figure, with flat seams that will not chafe your skin. If there are labels, then on the outside. If the material is polypropylene.

How to choose ski pants

This is one of the main pieces of equipment, so choosing it is not an easy task. First of all:

  • Make sure to use quality material as the basis. Like Stayer pants made from membrane tissue with elastic fibers for complete freedom of movement.
  • Take only the model that fits your size. But do not forget that there will be thermal underwear under it. In other words, the trousers should neither hang nor overly tight.
The best option is equipped with functional pockets (better on the sides, not at the back), removable straps (always adjustable), reinforced seams, zippers with non-metallic tongues, internal cuffs for reliable protection from the snow. It is good if there are hooks for attaching the legs to the boots.


How to choose the right ski suit: female and male

The modern assortment consists of 4 options:

Classical

In it, the severity of forms and only those colors that will never go out of fashion. This option is for a wide range of skiers, those who ride on prepared slopes and want to be confident in the comfort of movement at high speed. All models of this type are insulated, equipped with high-quality membranes, effectively protect from snow and piercing wind.

Fashion

This is what the eyes choose - bright models, fashionable styles... The target audience of the girl, although men can also pay attention to suits from this category, because they are not only good-looking, but also practical. The only drawback is that the cut is not always convenient for riding. Outwardly it is rather casual wear for winter recreation within the city. But the combination "style plus quality" has not been canceled - in this case, it is very useful.

Fashion premium sport

These are two in one - and advanced technologies for reliable protection from cold and moisture, and interesting decorative elements for original look models. The cut is more and more tight-fitting, emphasizing the figure. But it does not constrain movement, but gives complete freedom of action. All because of the elastic materials from which these suits are made. Another advantage of garments from this category is the high quality of the membrane and insulation for excellent thermoregulation.

Freeride

If colors, then muted, if prints, then discreet. Before you freeride - it does not set itself many tasks, but with enviable stability it copes with one thing - perfect protection from the cold and maintaining comfort while skiing for those who like to leave the track and pave a new route. The cut is more baggy, coarse, the insulation is adjusted with a separate down jacket and fleece, each piece is highly functional.



How to Choose a Good Ski Jacket and Which Model to Prefer

First, let's list all the required elements:

  • Membrane fabric - removes excess heat, prevents rain and snow from getting under the top layer of your equipment. Generally, the more efficient the material, the more expensive the jacket is. The exception to the rule is Stayer, where even the most reliable models remain available.
  • Snow-protective skirt - located on the belt, is needed by everyone and always. If the one that you bought does not have it, you were deceived by selling an ordinary down jacket. The main functions of this part are protection from snow and wind. Do you want not only to ride, but also to walk in new clothes? Choose the option with a zip skirt - it will be easy to unfasten.
  • Seams are necessarily glued, reliably protecting against moisture ingress.
  • Adjustable hood - there should be puffs on it, thanks to which it will be possible to adjust the fit. If you buy a model without this important function, riding will be ruined and you will have a cold.
  • Pockets - many pockets. For gloves and masks, gadgets, documents - everything that may come in handy on vacation. They should be both inside and outside.
  • Ventilation - usually done in the armpits. It must be present without fail. If there are extension cords on the zippers - great, it will be easier for you to close them. And one more important nuance - the zippers themselves must be reliably protected from moisture so that water does not flow inside.
  • Cuffs - they will prevent snow from falling into the sleeve, even if you fall. Better to buy models that have doubles. It looks like this - on the inside there is a more elastic and fitting part, and on the outside it is more authentic, adjustable, with a comfortable Velcro.
  • Adjustment from below - everything is clear here - it is needed so that the wind does not blow out. Most often this is a regular lace or elastic band. Pulled up - and went for a drive for pleasure.



How to choose a snowboard jacket

Basically, the requirements are the same. This is practicality, no details that would hinder movement, good thermoregulation, water resistance, protection from the cold. But there is one difference - this is the size. It is slightly larger than the ski models.

A little tip: zip up the zippers while trying on and raise your arms up. Not because you give up, but to check if your clothes are bulging or not. If it bulges up and exposes the body, it is problematic to move your hand, and you are frankly uncomfortable, look for another option.

You should also pay attention to:

  • Availability of laser perforation for ventilation.
  • Zipper with special impregnation, protected from water, with non-metallic tongues.
  • Two-layer cuffs.
  • Hood - it must be large so that it can be easily put on over the helmet.
  • Taped seams.
  • Lining - it should be made of synthetic materials or semi-natural materials that easily absorb moisture and dry quickly.
  • Pockets - for all the little things you need.
  • Inner skirt - protection from snow.
If you want to find high quality ski and snowboard clothing and not be disappointed in its functionality, buy Stayer models made by modern technologies and tested under extreme conditions. They are suitable for both professionals and amateurs who are just starting their acquaintance with new slopes and tracks. It is in this outfit that athletes from the Russian national team perform at the Olympics in South Korea. Appreciate it and you to be convinced of the unsurpassed quality, reliability and original design.

When planning to spend a weekend in the mountains, everyone has the same question: how not to make a mistake when choosing a ski suit and shoes? This issue of equipment can be said to be the most important, because renting skis or snowboards in the modern world will not be a problem. But the choice of clothing must be taken with full responsibility and seriousness. After all, if the suit is selected correctly, then the person will feel comfortable while riding, which means that the possibility of injury is significantly reduced.

Coming to a sports equipment store, we have a difficult choice. Ski jacket, shoes, and the rest - all this is presented in a variety of models, for example, different styles, quality, size and cost.

To understand which ski suit to buy, you need to carefully consider all of its varieties. Let's pay attention to the following:

  • Used for one season.
  • For frequent wear.
  • For professionals.

When considering a ski suit, pay attention to the following features:

  • All locks must not stick.
  • The zipper should be closed with a flap, so there will be no blowing.
  • There should be as many pockets as possible.
  • The cuffs on the sleeves should be simple and easy to fasten so that there is no snow falling inside.
  • The inside of the collar should be made of a material such as fleece. This will protect your face from chapping.
  • The ideal option would be to purchase a RECCO suit. This sign is a reflector for emergency responders.

Ski suit shoes

Perfect shoes - ski boots... Choosing them is as difficult as choosing a suit.
There are a couple of main rules that must be followed when choosing shoes.

  • Boots should ideally fit the leg, they should not press anywhere and dangle on the leg. In order to determine if this or that model is right for you, walk in it for a while. When lifting on toe, the heel must not detach from the insole.
  • The stiffness of ski shoes is determined according to the riding style. For beginners, shoes made from a less rigid material are great. In such boots it is easier to switch from riding to walking and vice versa, and they also give freedom in the process of bending the leg in the lower leg. For professional skiers, stiffer shoe models are needed.

This classification is explained according to the skill of the skier. If the athlete is not a professional and specializes in descents from simple tracks, there is no need for him to purchase an expensive suit. But for true fans from difficult descents, everything in the outfit is important: size, material, quality, appearance.

To avoid negative consequences, you should carefully consider the choice of a suit, even the smallest defect can be dangerous. Before choosing a ski outfit and purchasing it, you need to figure out what it is for: for a long time, for professional training or just for walking? Understand the purpose, start considering the parameters by which the suit is selected.

How to find the right suit size

This issue affects both the selection of the style, design and material of clothing, as well as the size. To correctly determine the size, you need to use a measuring tape and take measurements.

The size of the jacket is selected using:

  • Shoulder Width Measurements.
  • The girth of the chest and waist.
  • Determination of the length of the sleeves.
  • Back length is determined by measuring the distance from the transition of the neck to the shoulder to the end of the material.

To select pants you should:

  • Measure the width of the belt - the girth of the body in the navel area.
  • Measure the girth of the hips - at the highest points of the buttocks. If a half-girth is to be set, the existing result must be halved.
  • Measure the height of the waistband - from waistband to crotch.
  • Length measurements should be taken in the middle front side trousers, from the last point on top to the last point below.
  • Step seam - inside side seam trousers, from the groin to the last point on the bottom.

One-piece jumpsuit or suit?

One-piece suits are often chosen by professionals. They are designed to make movement easy and keep you warm. The tailored cut of this garment can even add speed. This suit is full of various advantages. It is protected from water and strong winds.

Split-type options are in demand among amateurs. This includes a jacket and trousers. This outfit can be worn even in the city. However, it is equipped with all the necessary technologies. Very often trousers and jacket are tied together with fasteners or laces.

The best brands of women's sports winter clothing

There are popular and quality brands. Let's take a closer look at them. The cost of expensive ski suits can reach up to 55 thousand rubles They are intended for dangerous descents in various weather conditions.

The following brands are specialized on expensive ski equipment: Phоnix, Killy, Dеscеnt. They use expensive and good membrane materials. All seams are glued, and the shoulders, elbows and knees are provided with material Cordura firms DuPont or Kevlar... This costume is designed for several seasons.