Beansonline Outdoor Pursuits Specialists

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Phone: 01869 246451

Ski Clothing and Equipment

Hopefully we will be able to help you and give you enough ideas and advice to get you started for a holiday to remember . . .
Click here for checklist

The only danger is that you will probably get hooked and want to go again and again. Skiing is probably the most exhilarating sport that anybody can do. Whether young, old, big, small, disabled, the only thing you need is a sense of adventure.

At Beans we have all the clothing for adults / kids and all the accessories you will need, if you can’t see it online it’s in our BICESTER SHOP. Just pick up the phone and we’ll be happy to advise you ( 01869 246451).

We do recommend on your first time trip that you HIRE the clothing as this keeps the costs down and in case of the rare occasion that you may not want to go again. See our On-Hire pages for HIRE prices.

WHAT IS IT AND WHY YOU MAY NEED IT?

JACKET:

A jacket is not just to look good in, but to keep you dry and warm. All our ski and board jackets are snow proof, designed so the snow doesn’t stick to it and just brushes off and to keep you dry, warm and free of snow. There are jackets that are waterproof and breathable and these start at a slightly higher price. You don’t have to have a fully waterproof jacket but it helps. Go for the best you can afford. Selling prices start about Ł50

Boarding jackets are generally more square cut and looser in fit than ski jackets.

SALOPETTES OR PANTS:

You may be falling over a few times so these will cushion you slightly on your knees and bum. Salopettes and pants come in the same qualities, designs as the jackets. Salopettes have braces and pants generally come with belts. There is no right one to choose it is just personal choice and what fits the best. We stock salopettes, pants, racing pants (tight fitting lycra type). We only hire out salopettes for skiing.

For boarding it’s the snow board pants that are reinforced in the knees and bum area, for obvious reasons! and generally a looser fit.

Selling Prices start at about Ł35

MICRO FLEECE:

Warm and moisture wicking it is ideal to wear straight on the body, over polo neck or thermal vest etc.

Snuggly and light does not restrict body movements. Does not absorb moisture from the body but transports it through the fabric

A very good insulating layer and is quick drying.

POLO NECK:

Generally made of cotton with Lycra around the cuffs and neck for a snug fit. It provides a good thin layer and covers the neck to stop draughts and snow getting in.Snug around the cuffs for added protection from cold and snow.

THERMAL UNDERWEAR:

A must if you feel the cold or going to very cold places. They provide warmth, comfort and allow your body to breathe and wicks away moisture from your body keeping you cooler when your hot and warmer when cold. Snug fitting but light and adaptable to every twist and turn of your body for maximum comfort. Basically Thermals are made from two processes, from man made Hi-Tech materials or Silk, which is generally regarded as the best, but a little dearer. For other parts of your body for extra warmth and comfort you can also use silk glove liners, silk sock liners and silk balaclava.

GLOVES, MITTENS AND HAT:

An obvious item. The 3 key areas of loss of body heat are through your HEAD, HANDS and FEET. Protect these and keep them warm and you will be warm and stay warm. Gloves & mittens come in many qualities and prices. All ski gloves are designed to be Snow Proof, so that the snow does not stick to them and just brushes off. (wool type gloves are not advisable).

You can spray them for added protection.

Gloves/mittens also come with water proof and breathable liners for extra comfort and protection. There is no right or wrong in which is best, gloves or mittens, I prefer gloves, but it’s personal preference.

Snowboard gloves are more robust and many have strapping around the wrist or built in wrist supports for extra protection to the hands and wrists.

Gloves/mittens also protect you from cutting your hands-fingers on the skis and snowboards sharp edges.

GOGGLES:

Goggles are an essential item to have, you should always have a pair with you. Conditions may change very quickly and you will be glad you had some. If it becomes windy, or it’s snowing heavy,or both, goggles will give your eyes much more protection than glasses.

TUBE SOCKS:

Good fitting socks are an absolute must. Socks with ribbing, bands, bobbles, lumpy stitching can cause you great discomfort, blisters and pressure points. Tube socks are excellent, as they are one long tube so you make your own heel shape and it fits exactly to your foot size. There are no lumpy stitching around the toes aswell so the possibilities of pressure points is vastly reduced. They provide great warmth and cushioning.

TECHNICAL SOCKS:

These can come in different thicknesses and qualities. They are made from a mixture of Hi-Tech materials and specially constructed to provide maximum comfort and support to your feet. These benefits include moisture wicking, support in key areas eg shins, heel etc. Some types also aid circulation, which can help if you suffer from cold feet.

MOON BOOTS:

Contrary to belief these are still popular and very useful to have. Not only are they thermal lined for warmth, but they have chunky, grippy soles for grip and support. Ideal to wear about the resort if conditions are very icy and cold. Also ideal for evening activities on the slopes such as bum boarding, sledging, snow-balling, running around or just walking!

Checklist

What you need for stress free skiing & snowboarding . . .

This is only a guide, and hopefully gives you plenty of ideas and answers. The list can be endless but should at least cover all the basics and the essentials- which are marked with an asterisk *

OUTER LAYER