If you want to get started in skiing, you probably have lots of questions about the right gear to use. And there is nothing wrong with that as you’ll soon learn everything you need to know about ski wear.
When you think about the apparel to put on when hitting the slopes, you may wonder whether you can wear snowboarding clothes while skiing. Like Burton, which you might have heard about.
Skiing is an enjoyable winter sport, but it does require you to dress for the occasion. Otherwise, real mountain challenges like cold weather, snow, and strong wind will overwhelm you.
Your apparel layering is crucial, and you want to ensure that you have the right type of clothes before heading to the mountain.
So, since you cannot wear the standard jacket and pants you already have in your closet to ski, what should you wear? Can you wear Burton on the slopes as a skier?
The answer is yes. Skiers can wear Burton on the slopes. While there is a slight difference between ski clothes and snowboarding apparel, skiers can still put on snowboarding brands, and Burton is not an exemption. But before you place your order or head to the store, not all snowboarding clothes are suitable for skiing.
In this article, we’ll talk about whether skiers can wear burton while hitting the slopes and how some skiing clothes differ from snowboarding apparel.
But before we get on that, what is Burton?
Table of Contents
What Does Burton Mean?
Burton is an outerwear brand that manufactures and sells some of the best snowboarding and skiing gear. This brand is famous for producing great snowboarding gear, especially jackets with stunning designs.
Jake Burton founded this brand with the aim of developing snowboarding products and enhancing the snowboarding lifestyle.
Since its establishment in 1977, Burton has remained a popular manufacturing company and is well-known for producing high-quality riding equipment and clothing.
They offer a wide variety of snowboards, split boards, snowboard boots, bindings, and outerwear, among other accessories. The company has also created a special line of casual attires.
So, can skiers really wear burton when skiing? Read on to find the detailed answer!
Can Skiers Wear Burton?
Yes, skiers can actually wear Burton when skiing. After all, there is no big difference between Burton products and those produced by other ski-specific companies.
Burton outerwear is waterproof and comes with all the zippers and pockets that snowboarders and skiers need on the slope. There is also a lifetime warranty to guarantee quality.
If you check the Burton website, you will see that they don’t have a ski items’ section. Instead, they have a section for snowboarding, men, women, kids, and other accessories essential for hitting the slopes.
But it doesn’t mean that the men’s, women’s, and kid’s wear sold by this company isn’t appropriate for skiers.
Even so, this is not true for other skiing items like ski boots and bindings. There is a huge difference between snowboard boots and bindings, but other items are just almost the same.
What’s the Difference Between Ski Trousers and Snowboard Trousers?
The difference between ski trousers and snowboarding pants is only the fit. Ski trousers are usually designed with a tighter fit than snowboarding pants.
A tight fitting helps skiers to ride comfortably even with certain ski movements like propelling the legs. It also helps them use their ski poles safely without interrupting the ride.
That’s why skiers are always advised to wear skiing-specific pants when hitting the slopes to guarantee comfort and safety on the mountain.
What to Wear When Skiing
If you are getting dressed to go skiing for the first time, you may be confused about what type of clothes to have and how to layer them.
Your ski wear is an important aspect of your skiing trip, as it greatly contributes to the type of experience you get while out there.
Wearing inappropriate ski gear will deny you the flexibility and comfort, which are essential for top-notch performance on the mountain.
Not only will the unforgiving cold weather punish you, but you will also be unable to focus and learn the skiing basics quickly.
So, you need to choose your ski clothes well to ensure that you are the most comfortable you can be. To wear properly for skiing, you need to focus on one layer of ski clothes at a time.
Start with a soft and breathable base layer, then a cozy mid-layer, and finish the outfit with a waterproof outer layer with good insulation.
Here are the vital pieces you need to wear correctly when going out to ski:
Ski Jacket
A ski jacket is an important piece of clothing to wear when skiing as it’s the outer layer protecting you from harsh weather elements.
When skiing on the mountain, your body is active and loses a lot of heat to the environment. And if you are not well-protected with an insulating layer, you’ll soon start freezing.
So, your ski jacket should be good-quality, with reliable insulation and waterproofing properties.
Jackets designed specifically for skiing are perfect for locking warmth in as they can effectively block cold, wind, and snow while you ride on the slope.
Even so, ski jackets’ designs differ from one brand to another, with most of them being multi-layered or shell jackets.
Another significant feature you should consider in a ski jacket is ventilation or breathability.
As contradicting as it may sound to try to cool off while still staying warm while skiing, good ventilation is vital when your body is active on the mountain. This is essential, especially when riding on sunny days, as you might feel too hot.
A versatile fleece jacket may be more than fit when skiing on warmer days, as it is highly breathable and lightweight. However, wearing a fleece jacket when skiing on windy and rainy days will set you up for a mess since it lacks weatherproof properties.
Zippers and pockets are also essential aspects to consider in a ski jacket, as you want somewhere safe to store your stuff while downhill skiing.
If you are already used to a snowboard jacket, you will realize that ski jackets are a bit tighter, and this is crucial for easy maneuverability, especially when skiing with poles.
Some of the highest-rated ski jackets include the Spyder Men’s Leader Gore-Tex Insulated Jacket and the Moerdeng Women’s Waterproof Ski Jacket. You can try any of them out since they are super warm, and most users recommend them.
Ski Pants
Whether you want to go down-hilling or backcountry skiing, ski pants are arguably the most important piece of cloth that will keep you warm and comfortable as you ski down the mountain.
Since your legs are close to the snow-covered ground, you want to ensure that they are well-protected to stay dry and warm. Keep in mind that your legs should be comfortable and flexible, for you to make movements and navigate the terrain with ease.
Sometimes you may even forego your ski jackets when skiing on a warmer day, but you should always have your snow pants on.
Similar to a good ski jacket, your ski pants should be waterproof, windproof, and have more insulation to ensure that your legs stay warm and dry all the time. A pair of jeans won’t pull it off.
Suspenders are also great for ski trousers as they keep them in place even when making intense movements and jumps.
If you don’t want suspenders, you can go for ski trousers designed with belt loops and adjustable waist flaps.
Other key features to consider when buying ski pants are the ventilation zips, which are crucial for your lower body comfort when skiing.
Boots zips are vital as they allow you to attach your boots to the pants. This helps prevent snow from slipping into your boots or soaking your pants.
When it comes to material, you want to get the most versatile fabric that offers adequate insulation and still keeps moisture away. In this case, synthetic materials like nylon and polyester will cut it.
The best pair of ski trousers should also fit snuggly, but not too tight, as you still want to be relaxed and give your legs some freedom.
Ski Boots
Ski boots are as important as the above ski clothing as they attach to your skis, which allows you to feel the terrain you are skiing on. So, you can’t hit the runs without ski boots.
Just like ski jackets and trousers, the boots should be waterproof and have good insulation to protect your legs from outdoor elements. They should also be comfortable and give a proper fit for enjoyable skiing.
Comfort and fitting are always a challenge that many skiers experience when they decide to rent their gear. But this is not to say that you shouldn’t rent skiing boots.
You can rent skiing boots from shops that provide ski equipment, but you should be keen to get a comfortable pair with a good fit.
Good boots for skiing should have adequate cushioning to prevent painful feet, which would otherwise disrupt your performance and learning.
The strap and buckles design do not differ widely in different brands, but aluminum buckles are better than plastic ones for durability.
One more essential thing to look for is the ski boots’ flex rate. Ski boots designed for beginners usually have a lower flex rate, usually below 75 for women and 85 for men.
Weight may not be a big issue, but it’s important to bear in mind that regular down-hilling boots may be a bit heavier than backcountry/off-piste boots.
You’ll also notice that skiing boots are quite different from snowboarding boots, and you can’t actually interchange them even if you enjoy both sports.
Ski Socks
Woolen or synthetic socks are the best to wear when skiing as they keep you warm and dry. They can wick away sweat and still preserve heat as you ski.
You should avoid cotton socks when skiing as they may end up soaking in sweat. Cotton socks take too long to dry hence they are not ideal for skiing.
While you may be tempted to wear very thick socks to stay warm while out there, socks that are too thick are the worst. They make your ski boots fit overly tight, limiting blood circulation on your legs.
Without circulation, your legs might end up feeling cold, beating the original purpose of wearing thick socks.
Ski socks should be taller than your ski boots and worn under thermals to prevent creasing your base layer.
However, wearing your ski socks over the base layer can help keep snow at bay. It all depends on how you like it!
Ski Gloves
If you are going to ski on cold days, a pair of ski gloves is a vital asset to have. The reason is that you can fall on the slope at any time, and there is no better way to protect your hands than having gloves.
When you are about to fall when skiing, the first thing your mind tells you to do is put your hands forward, and this means they’ll be the first to hit the snow.
Having your hands on the snow can be risky if you don’t have your snow gloves on, as they can easily freeze or sustain injuries.
Your skiing gloves should be waterproof with an insulating layer so they can seal out snow and keep your hands warm while out there.
Along with those qualities, your skiing gloves should also have extra grip, so they don’t interfere with how you use your poles. A good grip also comes in handy when it comes to carrying your gear around.
Ski Helmet
When skiing down the mountain, there are plenty of risks involved, some of which may result in head injuries.
The best way to keep your head safe on the mountain is to ski at reasonable speed and wear a good ski helmet that is up to the current tech and standards.
One of the most essential things to consider when choosing a ski helmet is how it fits your head. Your helmet won’t be useful if it doesn’t fit you properly.
It should also be lightweight and breathable enough to keep your head cool and comfortable for a longer time as you ride down the hill.
Another useful feature you’ll want your ski helmet to have is compatibility with your goggles, which are crucial for skiing. And this brings us to our next essential piece!
Ski Goggles
While some athletes will tell you that goggles aren’t important when skiing, I really think that your eyes need protection just like the other parts of your body.
When you wear goggles, your eyes are safe from harsh outdoor elements like wind and glare, especially when doing bluebird ski rides.
If you already have a ski helmet, be sure to bring it when buying your goggles to ensure that you get a compatible pair.
How to Wear the Base Layer
The type of clothing you put on under your ski jacket and pants may not seem very important, but they can make all the difference in comfort, warmth, and performance.
You need to have the right clothing underneath to keep you warm and cozy under all weather conditions.
The innermost layer includes a top and a pair of trousers, which are responsible for moisture wicking and heat preservation. They are usually made of synthetic blends or merino wool.
While you can simply use your yoga pants, thermal Long Johns will work much better on cold days.
The mid layer is the clothing that goes between the inner and outer layers. The main function of the mid layer is to trap hot air and keep you warm.
Many skiers usually skip the mid-layer on the lower body and use it only on the top half since the legs can naturally remain warm with all the movements and jumps done on the runs.
Just like the outer and base layers, your mid layers should not have a looser fit as such fit may not offer the required insulation.
How to Choose the Best Ski or Snowboard Jacket
There are many types of skiing and snowboarding jackets, and the best one for you will depend on your personal preference, budget, and where and when you intend to ride.
This includes simple shells, soft shells, puffy down jackets, insulated, and 3-in-1 jackets. Simple shells lack insulation but offer effective protection from wind, rain, and snow.
Soft shells are great for wind and cold protection and are best worn as mid-layers since they are lightweight and breathable.
Puffy down jackets are perfect for warmth but are not ideal for hitting the slopes like the types mentioned above. A puffy jacket is best worn for après-ski events.
A 3-in-1 set is a good option if you plan to ride in extremely cold temperatures when you need your jacket to be warm, waterproof, and highly breathable.
In a nutshell, a perfect snowboard or ski jacket should be windproof, waterproof, and breathable with an adjustable hood for a good fit.
It should also have enough pockets for your stuff and safety features like wrist gaiters, underarm vents, and stretch fabrics.
FAQs
Q: Can You Wear Burton If You Ski?
A: Yes, you can wear Burton if you ski. Most Burton wears are appropriate for skiing as they provide the protection and warmth you need on the mountain.
However, some Burton items may not be appropriate for skiing. For example, if you own a loose pair of Burton snowboard pants, they may not be ideal for skiing.
The best skiing trousers should provide a tight fit to let you move safely and easily maneuver your poles. But not as tight as your favorite pair of jeans, as then they may be uncomfortable!
Otherwise, loose pants can make it difficult for you to make your favorite movements when skiing.
All in all, you can wear other items like Burton jackets, gloves, and base layer tops, as they may be more than suitable for skiing.
Q: Can Skiers Wear Snowboard Jackets?
A: Yes, skiers can wear snowboard jackets. They do it so many times, especially those who alternate between the two sports.
Both snowboard and ski jackets use the same material to keep you warm and dry on the snowy slopes. They usually come with a breathable lining and a waterproof outer layer.
Since both skiers and boarders need somewhere to store their stuff on the slopes, ski and snowboard jackets come with external and internal zippers. Both jackets also feature a pocket on the sleeve for the ski/snowboard ticket.
There is only a slight difference between snowboard and ski jackets, and it’s usually based on the fit. Ski jackets tend to fit a bit tighter.
The designs may also vary between different ski and snowboard brands, but most of them are usually ideal for both winter sports.
If you plan to wear a snowboard jacket when going out to ski, you should ensure that it fits you properly, as a fitting that is too loose may disrupt your ride, especially when using ski poles.
Q: What Should You Not Wear While Skiing?
A: You should not wear sunglasses and scarves on a ski trip. Sunglasses can injure your eyes when they crash and may not provide adequate face coverage. Instead of sunglasses, you should wear ski goggles.
Scarves are dangerous in the sense that they can catch on a tree or the lift machine since they usually hang from your neck. If you need extra protection for your neck, you can bring some neck warmers and a face-mask to keep your face warm.
Wearing jeans is also a bad idea when skiing as they can be uncomfortable and will get wet within no time.
Q: What Do You Wear to Ski Slopes?
A: The most essential things to put on when skiing are a ski jacket, ski trousers, socks, and boots. You also need to be properly prepared with warm and breathable inner ski clothes.
Depending on your budget, you can use some close substitutes for the base and mid layers, but you must first check whether the weather allows it.
Conclusion
Burton is a great brand, and it’s not just for snowboarders. Skiers can wear Burton, as the clothes don’t differ hugely from those produced by ski-specific brands.
Both skiing and snowboarding clothes have almost similar properties, and there is nothing wrong with mixing and matching brands.
If you want to use Burton for skiing, the rule of thumb is to consider the fit, as you want the apparel to fit tighter for skis. Feel free to interchange skiing and snowboarding brands, as long as you can get the fit right.
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