Snow Gear 101: How to Layer for Skiing, Snowboarding, or Snow Play
Think “parfait” not “one single giant coat”
The best snow outfits aren’t about one mega-puffy parka. They’re about layers that work together, so you can stay warm without turning into a sweaty marshmallow.
Here’s the simple 3-layer system used by basically everyone who spends time in snow.
The 3-Layer System (Made Easy)
Layer 1: Base layer (stays on all day)
Job: move sweat off your skin so you don’t get cold.
What to wear:
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Merino wool or synthetic long-sleeve top
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Merino or synthetic bottoms / leggings
What to avoid:
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Cotton tees
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Cotton leggings
Cotton keeps moisture close to your body and cools you down fast.
Layer 2: Mid layer (your heater)
Job: hold warmth. This is your insulation layer.
What to wear:
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Fleece pullover
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Light puffy jacket
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Wool sweater (works if it’s not itchy)
How thick?
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If it’s cold or you run chilly → go warmer/thicker
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If you run hot or it’s spring → go lighter
Layer 3: Shell/outerwear (your weather armor)
Job: keep snow + wind + water out.
This is what makes the whole system work.
What to wear:
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Waterproof ski/snowboard jacket
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Waterproof snow pants
Why waterproof matters:
Snow melts. Wet clothes steal body heat. Waterproof outerwear = dry = warm.
Zent packages cover this layer so you don’t need to buy it.
How warm should you dress?
A good rule:
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You should feel a tiny bit cool standing still.
Because once you start moving, you’ll heat up.
If you’re already sweaty in the parking lot, you’ll be drenched by lunch.
Example outfits
Cold day (20s–30s °F)
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Base: merino top + bottoms
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Mid: fleece + light puffy
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Outer: waterproof jacket + pants
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Accessories: warm mittens, gaiter, wool socks
Mild day (30s–40s °F)
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Base: wicking long sleeve + bottoms
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Mid: fleece
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Outer: waterproof jacket + pants
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Accessories: lighter gloves, gaiter optional
Snow play / sledding day
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Base: wicking layers
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Mid: fleece
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Outer: waterproof jacket + pants
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Accessories: warm gloves, boots with traction
Common beginner mistakes (and how to fix them)
Mistake 1: Wearing jeans under snow pants
Jeans get cold + stiff + wet. Replace with base layers.
Mistake 2: Too many thick layers
You’ll overheat and sweat, then get cold. Stick to the system.
Mistake 3: Regular socks in ski boots
Cotton socks = cold feet. Use wool/synthetic ski socks.
The Zent way: layer smart, rent easy
If you’ve got your base + mid layers, you’re already 80% there. Rent your outerwear, skip the cost/storage, and head to the snow feeling like you’ve done this before.