Skiing in March and April is vastly different from skiing in January. The freeze-thaw cycle creates unique snow conditions, and the powerful high-altitude sun requires a totally different approach to layering and protection. Here is a quick checklist of essential gear for spring skiing.
1. High SPF Sunscreen and Lip Balm
This is the most important item on the list. The sun is significantly stronger in the spring, and the snow acts like a giant mirror, reflecting UV rays directly up into your face. Apply a high SPF sunscreen before you hit the slopes and reapply at lunch. Do not forget SPF lip balm—sunburned lips are miserable!
2. Lighter Layers and Shell Jackets
Leave the heavy, insulated puffer jacket at home. Spring skiing is all about breathability. A lightweight, uninsulated waterproof shell is ideal. Pair it with a moisture-wicking base layer. As the day warms up, you can open your pit-zips to vent heat.
3. Spring Gloves
Those thick Gore-Tex mittens that kept you warm in sub-zero January will leave your hands sweaty and uncomfortable in April. Invest in a pair of lightweight “spring gloves” or pipe gloves. They offer enough protection from the snow and wind but breathe much better.
4. Goggles with High VLT Lenses
If you have interchangeable goggle lenses, spring is the time to swap out your yellow or rose “storm” lenses for your dark, mirrored lenses. The bright sun reflecting off the snow can cause intense glare, and dark lenses will reduce eye fatigue.
5. Warm Weather Wax
Snow changes dramatically in the spring. As it warms up, it becomes wet and sticky. If you are still using a cold-weather wax, you will feel like you are skiing through wet cement. Take your skis or snowboard to a shop and get a fresh coat of warm-weather or spring-specific wax. It makes a massive difference in your glide!