Comment s’habiller pour le ski de randonnée?

How to dress for ski touring?

La Cordée

September 9, 2025

6 minutes

Before heading into the mountains with your new ski touring gear, make sure you have all the right clothing and accessories for comfort and safety.

HOW TO DRESS FOR SKI TOURING?

The key to effectively wicking away moisture without neglecting body heat preservation is the multi-layer system. This versatile system allows you to remove layers on the way up and add them on the way down.

Put on a fitted base layer made of merino wool or synthetic fibers. This first layer will wick away sweat to keep you dry during the ascent.

Next, add a mid-layer that will help retain your body heat to keep you warm. Ideally, choose a garment made of synthetic fabric or a coat with synthetic insulation.

Finally, get an outer layer to protect you from the elements while allowing moisture from the inner layers to escape. Opt for a waterproof-breathable shell made of waterproof, windproof, breathable and resistant materials like Gore-Tex or Pertex.

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For the ascent, feel free to remove the outer layer and the mid-layer to avoid overheating. Once at the summit of the mountain, you'll just have to put them back on right before the descent.

For the pants, you can use the same principle as the multi-layer system for the upper body. First, put on a base layer in merino wool or synthetic fibers. Then, get yourself fleece pants or pants with synthetic insulation to retain your warmth. Then, finish with a shell-style pant made of waterproof-breathable materials. Make sure your pants have ventilation zippers to allow you to evacuate heat if necessary during ascents.

Accessories are just as important as clothing. Opt for merino wool or synthetic fiber socks. Avoid cotton at all costs as it absorbs perspiration. Take with you gloves or mittens, depending on your preference. Get a thin pair to avoid overheating during ascents, then a thicker pair for descents. Don't forget your neck gaiter and your hat to keep you warm.

Also add spare clothing and accessories to your backpack if you get too hot or if your accessories get too wet.

WHAT BACKPACK TO CHOOSE?

Carrying a backpack while ski touring is essential to have all the essentials at hand, both for your comfort and your safety. Once on the mountain, you may find yourself isolated, so it is important to be autonomous and be prepared for any eventuality.

There are several features to consider when choosing your ski touring backpack. First of all, make sure your bag is made with resistant and waterproof materials to prevent it from getting wet when you put it in the snow.

It must be equipped with attachment points for your skis, either diagonally or in an A-shape. Most of the time, both attachment systems are available on backpacks, otherwise make the best choice according to your needs. It all depends on the type of terrain and the width of your skis.

Make sure your bag is equipped with an easily accessible pocket to store your safety equipment in case of emergency. A helmet attachment point is also very useful so you don't have to wear it on your head during climbs. To avoid damaging your ski goggles, some bags are equipped with a padded and soft pocket specially designed to house your goggles.

A compartment for climbing skins is also essential to be able to store them properly during descents without getting the contents of your bag wet. If you want to bring crampons or an ice axe, make sure your bag has pockets or attachment points to carry them. Small pockets on the belt are also very practical for quick access to some of your personal belongings.

WHAT ARE OTHER ESSENTIALS?

In addition to clothing, accessories, and a backpack, there are other essentials not to forget before heading to the mountains.

- Safety equipment: an avalanche transceiver, an avalanche probe, and a metal shovel

- Hand warmers and foot warmers

- A pair of crampons

- An ice axe, if your expedition requires it

- Sunscreen

- Energy snacks and water

- Sunglasses and ski goggles

- A helmet with MIPS protection

- A repair kit for your climbing skins

You can now complete your ski touring equipment to venture into the backcountry. If you have doubts about the best choice of backpack or want to try a jacket before buying it, visit one of our stores.