Here are some tips on how to keep kids warm and happy and develop a love for skiing! I have a simple way to remember how to stay comfortable while enjoying the winter wonderland that the Pass at Snoqualmie offers. It will work everywhere else too! The most important thing is to not wear anything cotton! (Absorbs water and cools you off!). Ideally, all your clothing will be synthetic or wool clothing.
V I P Rules for Clothing
Ventilation: This represents the base layer, or first layer, that helps the skin breathe. Ideally, this is a snug layer that moves with you.
Insulation: The insulation layer is the one that helps to keep you warm! Ideally, you would have a few different thicknesses for different temperatures. A thin fleece jacket, a puffy jacket, and a wool sweater are all examples of the Insulation layer. Ideally, the kids would bring a few options depending on the temperatures of the day. Better to be too warm than cold.
Protection: This is the layer that protects you from the wind, rain, snow, or sun. Ideally, this is a waterproof and windproof layer. Jackets and pants are examples. Gore-Tex is one example, and there are many others out now. If they offer waterproofness, look for at least a 15k rating for a minimum of waterproofness.
Buff Scarf/Face Protection
These are helpful if the snow is falling or if it rains as cold raindrops really hurt your face, as does graupel (tiny snowballs).
Helmets
These are a great way to help protect your head if you crash. Helmets that have the MIPS label (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) offers more protection.
Gloves/Mittens
Your children’s hands will be one of the first things to get cold, depending on how well they followed the VIP rules above! Waterproof gloves are an essential part of enjoying the cold, snowy environment. There are many options for gloves/mittens out there. In general, a mitten will be warmer but have less dexterity. Luckily, holding onto poles or grabbing the seat on the chairlift does not require much. Hand warmers can help substantially as well.
Reminder: if gloves are soaking wet, the hand warmers will not work! They need a dry area to work!
Socks
In general, ski socks will be taller than many socks. They usually go up close to the knee. At a minimum, socks should be higher than the ski boot. Wool / synthetic stacks are best.
Goggles
Ski goggles are worn to help protect your eyes from UV rays and to help keep snow from hitting your eyes. With the afternoon ski classes, it is best to have a rose-colored lens, so when it gets dark, and the lights come on, you can still see. They make goggles that can accept glasses to fit underneath (OTG Goggles). Highly recommend anti-fog cloths to apply to glasses and goggles every week.
Boot Bag
All the items can be stored in a boot bag. These usually have a separate compartment for the “wet” items (boots). These are usually in a style with two straps to be worn like a backpack. Practicing where everything goes is key to being able to find it and put it back to the same spot each time. Again, a great thing to practice.
Looking forward to another great ski season and hanging out with your kids.
Eric Sach
Snow Program Coordinator and Eton Parent
