That's La Plagne
How to Get Kids Happy Wearing Ski Gear
If you’ve landed on this page, then odds are you’re heading skiing with your family and kids this winter – how exciting! And if it’s for the first time, you’re in for a magical family ski trip. But I’m sure you have lots of questions, and one of them is probably, ‘What do kids actually need to go skiing?’ And ‘how can I get my kids used to wearing ski gear?’
Well, that’s where I step in. I'm Jen, a family ski expert, and I live in La Plagne, a French ski resort, with my 2 ski kids. Throughout the winter, I am navigating the slopes every day with my two young adventure enthusiasts. Not only that but living in a ski resort, my kids have to wear their ski gear to walk to school!
So, I am well practiced in how to get kids layered up in the best ski gear. And today, I’m going to share some insider tips on how to make sure your little ones are not just ready for the slopes but excited about their ski gear.
I remember a day when my 3-year-old just wouldn't stop crying on the slopes. And I couldn’t figure out why. For some reason, I switched his sunglasses for goggles, and it turns out it was the sunglasses causing discomfort. Lesson learned: sometimes, kids can't pinpoint the issue, so it's great to have options. Let's make sure our kiddos are snug, cosy, and, most importantly, happy in their ski gear.
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Kids Ski Gear: the essentials
Let's delve deeper into the essentials that will make your child's skiing experience not only enjoyable but also safe and snug.
Kids Ski Boots: Happy Feet, Happy Skier
- Importance of Well-Fitted Ski Boots Ski boots are the unsung heroes of the slopes. Ill-fitted boots can quickly turn a snowy adventure into a meltdown. Ensure a snug fit without being too tight, as this not only enhances performance but also prevents discomfort.
- Choosing the Right Size Kids' feet grow like weeds, so measure and re-measure. A good rule of thumb? Leave enough room for a ski sock. Pro tip: Always try boots on with the same socks your child will wear on the slopes. And if it’s your first time buying kids’ ski boots, you absolutely need to head to a ski shop to get some advice on the right sizing for your kids.
- Warmth and Support Warm, supported feet are happy feet. Look for boots with insulation and padding, especially around the ankles. Your little one will be tackling the slopes with a smile, thanks to the right pair of boots.
- Layering Wisdom Battling the mountain cold begins with the art of layering. Moisture-wicking base layers keep sweat at bay, insulated mid-layers trap warmth, and waterproof outer layers shield against snow and wind. It's the ultimate cold-fighting trifecta.
- Choosing Fabrics Selecting the right fabrics is a game-changer. Opt for materials that adapt to varying weather conditions. Merino wool and synthetic fabrics are fantastic choices, offering warmth without bulk and drying quickly if things get a bit too snowy.
Ski Outerwear: Jackets, Salopettes, and Onesies
- Quality Outerwear When it comes to ski jackets and salopettes, quality is key. These pieces aren't just stylish; they're your child's protection against the elements. Look for durable, waterproof, and breathable materials for optimal protection.
- All-in-One Ski Onesies For the younger ones, all-in-one ski onesies are a game-changer. They keep the cold out and the warmth in, eliminating the risk of snow creeping in through the gaps. Plus, they look adorable on the slopes! My kids’ moved into jackets and salopettes when they were about 4, but this is a personal preference as they still have a lot of friends in onesies (and I myself ski a lot in a grown-up onesie!).
- Insulation, Waterproofing, and Breathability Outerwear needs to multitask. Insulation keeps them warm, waterproofing keeps them dry, and breathability prevents overheating. Finding the right balance ensures your child is comfortable and ready for whatever the mountain throws their way.
- Non-Negotiable Helmets No compromises here. Helmets are non-negotiable. They're not just a piece of gear; they're a safety cocoon. Ensure your child's helmet fits well, snug but not tight, and sits low on their forehead for maximum protection.
- Safety Benefits Helmets are more than just a precaution; they can be lifesavers. Explain to your child that their helmet is their superhero cape, offering protection against bumps, falls, and unexpected twists on the slopes.
- Finding the Right Fit Invest time in finding the perfect helmet fit. It should feel secure without being uncomfortable. My kids’ helmets have adjustable straps, and these are your best friend, ensuring a customised fit for your little adventurer.
Eye Protection: Sunglasses, Ski Goggles, and Beyond
- Shielding Young Eyes Protecting those young eyes from the snow's dazzling reflection is crucial. It’s often a personal choice, but I recommend ski goggles for younger children because once they’re on, they stay on! Plus they also provide some protection from windchill and eyes watering in colder temperatures. Don’t forget, you will still need sunglasses for ski stops and lunch breaks though.
- Differentiating Between Sunglasses and Ski Goggles Typically, as your kids get older, sunglasses for sunny days, and goggles for snow storms. Simple, right? Different situations call for different eye protection. Sunglasses shield against UV rays, while goggles provide a barrier against wind and snow.
- Highlighting Features UV protection, anti-fog coatings, and adjustable straps are the cherry on top. Ski goggles with these features ensure your child can focus on the thrill of skiing without squinting or wiping foggy lenses.
- Happy Feet, Warm Hands Don't overlook the importance of ski socks and gloves. Cold toes and fingers can turn a fun day into a chilly ordeal. Invest in quality, moisture-wicking ski socks that provide warmth without bulk.
- Choosing Gloves Wisely Gloves should be waterproof, insulated, and easy to put on and take off. I strongly recommend gloves with wrist straps to keep them securely in place, I even have these on my ski gloves. Kids can also benefit from having a large wrist section with a zip so they can fit snugly over ski jacket sleeves with no gaps. Pro tip: Always pack an extra pair – just in case.
For more glove options check out this post: Mittens vs. Gloves, Choosing the Right Handwear for Your Little Skiers
Now that we've covered every inch of your child's ski gear let's ensure they hit the slopes in style, comfort, and, most importantly, with a huge grin on their face!
Engaging Kids in their Ski Gear Selection
Now, let's talk about turning the sometimes daunting task of picking out ski gear into a fun experience for your little ones. The secret? Involve them in the decision-making process. Trust me; it's a game-changer!
Encouraging Involvement Make selecting ski gear a family affair. Give your kids a sense of ownership over their gear by letting them have a say in the choices. It's not just about functionality; it's about expressing their personality on the slopes. When kids feel a connection to their gear, they're not just getting ready for an adventure; they're becoming a part of it.
Colors and Patterns Now, onto the fun part – colours and patterns. This is where your child's eyes light up, and the excitement for the impending skiing escapade begins. Don't be surprised if they have strong opinions about whether it's going to be neon green or electric blue. Embrace it! Bright, bold colors and quirky patterns can turn ordinary gear into something extraordinary for your little shredder. Plus, it’s a lot easier to see them on the ski slopes in bright colours.
Personal Anecdote When my little one turned 4, he was with us to pick a new pair of skis. The options? A fiery red set or a playful blue set adorned with penguins. It was no contest – the penguins won by a landslide. The joy on his face as he proudly stood beside his penguin-clad skis was priceless. From that day on, those penguin skis weren't just gear; they were his companions on every snowy slope, making each trip down the slopes an adventure.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Gear-wearing Experience
Practice at Home Get those ski boots on at home. Ski boots are a bit weird and do take some getting used to, for kids and parents too! You can get some really fun plastic skis that strap over trainers and are a fun way for kids to get used to the gear sliding around your house.
Layering Tricks Make sure you’ve got the layers on in the right order, it will really help you get a routine together. Plus it also means you can strip them off quickly when you need to get them to the toilet fast!
Funky Accessories Add a splash of fun with colorful buffs, funky hats, helmet covers or themed gloves. Accessories make the gear exciting!
Positive Reinforcement Praise, praise, praise! Positive reinforcement goes a long way in making gear-wearing a breeze.
Common concerns with kids’ ski gear
Let's face it; skiing with kids can stir up a mix of excitement and worry for parents. As someone who has navigated these slopes with my own little adventurers, I get it!
Fear of Falling It's entirely natural for parents to worry about their kids taking a tumble on the slopes. And I’m here to tell you, it is going to happen. But don’t worry, kids are resilient and the snow is softer than you think. To ease these concerns, you can add some layers of protection.
- Knee and wrist guards and bum pads are great if your kids are snowboarding.
- Back protectors are a game-changer and my own kids have been wearing these since they hopped onto chairlifts, offering an extra sense of security for both them and me.
Overcoming the Cold Cold fingers, toes, and noses are a common woe on the snowy mountainside. For those chilly toes, invest in high-quality ski socks that prioritise both warmth and moisture-wicking capabilities. Happy feet make for happy skiers.
When it comes to combating the cold, my family swears by reusable hand warmers. Slip them into your child's pockets, gloves, and layers, and suddenly, frosty fingers transform into toasty delights. Trust me; these little reusable heat packs are not only practical but also make for excellent Christmas or birthday presents, ensuring your child stays warm and comfortable throughout their snowy adventures.
That’s La Plagne & the best kids ski gear tips
As we wrap up our journey into the world of kids' ski gear, let's recap the key elements that ensure your little ones not only hit the slopes comfortably but with boundless enthusiasm. The secret lies in crafting a positive gear-wearing experience, shaping their love for skiing from the very start.
Now, it's your turn! Share your tips, experiences, and favorite ski gear moments in the comments below. Let's build a community of snow-loving families, exchanging stories and insights on making winter sports an absolute delight for our little ones.
Looking to upgrade your kids' ski gear? You can shop a lot of ski gear from great second hand stores that will save you a fortune. I recommend: Whoski.com, Ecoski.co.uk, and Facebook MarketPlace.
For some of the fun kids’ ski gear accessories, you can shop them all here.
See you on the slopes!
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