Beginner's guide to clothing for skiing/boarding

Just thought I'd start a thread on some beginners' stuff - this one's on clothing. Will come back to edit later.

First thoughts are:

You don't have to spend a fortune
Beg or borrow if you can (and if it fits)
Trousers/salopettes specifically designed for skiing are a must - you will fall over and you don't want to get wet through - jeans are a complete no-no
Shops like Decathlon, Sports Direct, Aldi and TKMAxx sell perfectly serviceable stuff
You can often pick-up bargains at the end of the season or before the start of the season
Go for a layering approach - lots of thinner layers usually better than few thick layers
Get a good pair of gloves and use glove liners to keep you extra warm - don't take off your gloves on a chairlift - if you drop them you may lose them for good
Get some good, proper ski socks (big thick ones look good but aren't really)

Kids generally get colder quicker than adults, so bear that in mind
Kids also seem to get wet quicker than adults - spare gloves are a good idea

Fit is important for some items - if you are buying a helmet, get one that fits well (I have an odd shaped head)
If you are buying some goggles to go with your helmet, then you need to try the goggles on with the helmet in place

Snoods/neckwarmers are good for keeping out the wind.

Don't bother wearing/carrying a backpack/rucksack until you know what you are doing - these can easily get caught on lifts

Please feel free to pile in everyone....

Buy at the end of the season.

My advice is ensure you buy good base layers!

Buy proper ski socks, big woolly socks will make your feet cold and give you less control.

Skiing is the single greatest thing I have ever done but it's no fun when you are cold or so warm you are sweating, Thin layers are the answer.

Never ever wash any waterproof clothing with wash powder.

TX Maxx is your friend!!

Cheers, Bedrock & MattSki. I have added your comments to my rambling list :)

<<Buy proper ski socks, big woolly socks will make your feet cold and give you less control.>>

Yes, but THIN wool socks are the best I've ever found. Personally I buy "Smartwool", other fine brands are available etc...just avoid thick cotton socks, in my experience they soak up the sweat and leave you with wet feet that get really cold.

Can anyone recommend some gloves which will be warm and waterproof but will not break the bank - max £50. I've bought my two teenage sons a pair each from mountain warehouse but now wondering if they'll be good enough.

Hi Emmwall, I have been using Zanier gloves for several years now, and these are available for under £50. I do always tale multiple pairs of gloves now though, mainly because I have built a collection over the years and have them, but also so I can match the colours to my jackets :)

I should also add that you should not rule out mittens. Many people swear by mittens and they will usually keep your hands warmer.