What to wear for Backcountry Skiing - A Pro's Guide to Layering

Presented by EVO

We always here the term 'layering' in winter travel and backcountry skiing, but what is it and what's the reason for it? Well this bonus episode explains some of the science behind layering, temperature regulation, why moisture management is the most important aspect in the backcountry and why certain materials are better than others for winter travel. Additionally, some tips and tricks to belts, gloves and liners within.

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ROUTE Info:

WEATHER:

GEAR Used Throughout The FIFTY:

[TheJonVidz]

Can we please get a winter camping / multi day tour gear bonus episode

[joshjaffe]

The glove recommendations are excellent. That mitt shell is so much easier to carry and super effective. One trick for the feet if you can pull it off - put on your socks as close to your tour as possible - don't sit in the car sweating in your touring socks for 2hrs before you go out. Also a little foot powder as a drying agent before you slip on those touring socks can help too

[mball]

A note on vasoconstriction and gloves: totally agree on the layering system for hands, but it’s also worth noting that sometimes warming your core can help your body warm your extremities. I’ve noticed that sometimes an extra vest or slightly warmer mid layer can help my hands and toes feel warmer even with the same glove system, as the body doesn’t vasoconstrict as much. Has to be done before your hands feel cold, however.

[-trn]

Great video and great advice even for those of us sticking to the resort and hiking small back and side country lines.
I regularly ride in -20 to -30C and simple base layering makes these days totally enjoyable, even if the lift up is a little painful in the wind.

You don't have to necessarily buy the most expensive ski branded gear you can find, either. It's more about materials and less about high tech, especially if your life isn't completely relying on your outerwear. I have multiple Merino Wool long sleeves from Costco at like $20 each, Merino/Poly blend long johns from a hunting/work wear store, and a Primaloft puffy from the grocery store clothing section, of all places. I will add poly mid weight pants if necessary, but it has to be pretty cold.

Combined with proper waterproof/gore outer layer, it's fantastic and so much more affordable than spending $300 on a down vest, $120 per merino base layer etc. Just keep an eye on deals and check the material tag on things you run across!

[Treewizard]

You rock Cody! It’s such a wilderness out there when it comes to gear, and it’s very easy to spend a lot of money fast experimenting with what might work. It’s a huge help having your expertise and the confidence that comes with knowing you’re truly testing this stuff in the most extreme conditions.

[caverpilot]

@9:10 is actually "Fält Guide Glove" - This model is named after one of Sweden’s leading survival experts, Lars Fält, who was also involved in the development of the glove. (who knew? just learned from Hestra's site, thanks for the recs!!)

[adamp]

One more suggestion for keeping feet dry I learned from a ski patrol buddy. Most of the foot moisture comes from sweaty feet, not exterior water. Try putting some antiperspirant spray on your feet before you put on your socks and boots, keeps everything much drier and warmer!

[marklambert]

Yes, another informational video on backcountry skiing, just what I needed!!!😁

[nwsurf]

I have my pitchfork ready for the first down vote. That was excellent and informative, no wasted time and still fun to watch. Cheers

[rpearce]

Great video! I perpetually run hot except my hands, and the glove layering system was a game changer for me last winter. I prefer using gauntlet cuff gloves with removable liners that I can swap out as they get wet/sweaty. As to layers, I've become a big fan of the "hybrid style" layering system (Nikolai Schirmer had a good video on this recently) that omits the waterproof shell entirely and the insulator puffy becomes the outer shell. I'm in California though and this doesn't work in climates with lots of wet snow

[AnthonySamani-elqt]

Just wanted to say that this layout of information is so well done and informative thank you for breaking everything down and providing so many people with a base of backcountry knowledge! And the entertainment factor also

[mikemcintosh]

Possibly the bet vid on this topic I've seen. Thanks!

[ChrisProuse]

So well said - you knocked it out of the park! Love your "Be Bold Start Cold" line 😄

[andy-MTB]

Great video and I've got to say I LOVE LOVE LOVE my Arcade belts! I pretty much wear it daily including; skiing, mountain biking and golfing.

[christopherwindsor]

Thanks again for sharing your wisdom. The wet T-shirt was an added bonus.

[cjayflo]

Great video that works for those of that sweat a lot no matter what.

[JayBeBerg]

When I switched to merino baselayers I quickly realised that they were not performing as promised. They wet out and never walk dry. I thought it was user error and persisted, until I read that merino can absorb more moisture than cotton. After that I've switched to synthetics against the skin with possible merino layers on top (or not at all). It's smellier for sure. But, if you take a mesh polypropylene t-shirt and wash it right after wearing it, it'll stay pretty fresh and be dry enough to wear almost immediately. Also have to point out that close knit cotton outer layers (like Ventile) work great in cold climates, just not against the skin.
Great topic for a video, cheers!

[martinbailly]

Best ever presentation on the subject ! Kudo!

[danielgrazioli]

bought a shake dry jacket. could not believe it! awesome. thank you for the hint!!!

[ricewychrij]

Another great vid. I don't do backcountry, just standard piste snowboarding, but I'll definitely be using these tips when I'm preparing for my trip next year... I tend to get cold lol. Thanks Cody