Going skiing or snowboarding for the first time in Niseko? Check out this guide to help you get up to speed!
When hitting the slopes for the first time, dressing appropriately is key to staying warm, dry, and comfortable. Here is a guide on how we layer up:
- Base Layer:
Start with moisture-wicking, thermal underwear. This layer sits directly against your skin and helps keep sweat away, ensuring you stay dry and warm. Long sleeve or short sleeve is fine, although generally avoid cotton – it absorbs moisture and will stay damp against your skin, which cools you down.
- Insulating Layer:
Add an insulating layer to trap heat close to your body. Fleece jackets or down vests work really well for this purpose. The goal is to provide warmth without adding too much bulk, which would reduce your mobility.
- Outer Layer (Jacket and Pants):
Your outer layer is your first line of defense against wind, snow, and moisture. Look for waterproof and breathable materials that will keep you dry, while allowing perspiration to escape. Hoods on jackets can be useful, but are sometimes incompatible with a helmet. Ensure the pants are equipped with snow gaiters to prevent snow from entering up your leg and down your boots! Remember Niseko can often have dumps of 30+ cm of snow in one night, and heading off the groomed trails can get you into some waist deep powder!
- Gloves or Mittens:
Invest in waterproof and insulated gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm and dry. Mittens generally provide more warmth, while gloves offer better dexterity. If you get extra cold fingers, then a pair of thin glove liners to put on beforehand can help you out!
- Headwear:
It is really important to use a helmet for protection, and helpfully it also adds an extra layer of warmth. Niseko is famous for its deep snow, so most landings are soft, but that doesn’t mean you should skimp out on safety! Some people pair this with a beanie hat under the helmet, but this can be uncomfortable if the hat is too bulky, and it can stop moisture from escaping – leaving your head a sweaty mess.
6. Eyewear:
Protect your eyes from the glare of the sun on the snow with UV-resistant goggles. Goggles also shield your eyes from wind and snow, enhancing visibility on the slopes. It is important to check that these fit well with your helmet, otherwise you could end up with the dreaded “goggle gap”. At a push, sunglasses can be used, but these don’t offer much protection as goggles and the wind and snow can still get in on the sides.
- Balaclava or Neck warmer:
Keep your neck and face protected from the cold winds and snow by wearing a neck warmer or a balaclava. There are lots of different styles and thicknesses to suit individual tastes, some have fleece for extra warmth, others have holes in to help breathing.
- Socks:
Opt for moisture-wicking, breathable socks to keep your feet dry and warm. Thick socks may seem cozy, but they can affect blood circulation, especially in ski boots, so choose wisely.
- Extras:
Hand and foot warmers: Consider bringing disposable warmers for exceptionally cold days. Compared to other ski areas around the world, Niseko is relatively mild for coldness, typically its between -5 and -10 celsius. Although there can be a few days in a season of -15 celsius, but it’s rare to get lower than that.
Sunscreen: Even in snowy conditions, the sun’s rays can be strong. Protect your skin with a high SPF sunscreen.
One person in the group may chose to bring a backpack – this can help carry small essentials like water, snacks, and an extra layer in case the weather changes.
Remember, layering allows you to adjust your clothing based on the weather and your activity level. As a beginner you will likely be working physically harder than most people on the mountain! You will also tend to be sticking to more sheltered areas lower down in the mountain which are less affected by wind and temperature.
Maybe consider booking a lesson with one of our great instructors to help you get the most out of your time here!
