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Lifestyle
Amelia Yeomans

The best brands for ski clothes, recommended by experts for style and performance

Composite of three models wearing best brands for ski clothes from the north face and sweaty betty.

Scouting out the best brands for ski clothes has to be one of the top priorities before heading to the mountains. Pack the wrong gear and you're in for a week of discomfort - so it pays to know where to shop for items that will serve you well in icy climes.

The question of what to wear in the snow is not always easily answered, especially for a skiing holiday. There are countless items and accessories out there, many of which can cost a small fortune, and there's nothing worse than realising once you're out there that they don't function quite as well as you had hoped.

Whether you're new to the sport and wondering what to wear skiing or you're a seasoned professional who's ready to up their style game on the slopes, these are the brands that deliver on both performance and fashion points - and all come approved by style or ski experts.

9 best brands for ski clothes, according to experts

We spoke to the regular skiers on our fashion team as well as a ski instructor to find out which brands can really be trusted to deliver ski clothes that perform well. And the best part is, most are surprisingly affordable. Whether you're in need of a full outfit or you're wanting to upgrade your base layers, these are the brands to know about.

1. Sweaty Betty

When we surveyed our fashion team on their favourite ski brands, Sweaty Betty was the one that came up again and again. The brand's collection spans everything from the warmest leggings and the best thermals for women to reliable and chic outerwear that will suit even the most stylish skier. 

2. John Lewis

John Lewis is one of the best British clothing brands for shopping multiple stylish labels in one place, especially for ski gear. As well as the best John Lewis coats, you have Superdry, The North Face, Roxy, Sweaty Betty, and Icebreaker providing high-quality snowsports pieces. 

3. Mountain Warehouse

Mountain Warehouse is the place to go if you're after practical skiing wardrobe essentials that will last well and protect you from the elements. At a more affordable price point than many other ski brands, there is a huge selection of base layers, outerwear, and even the best winter hats and other ski holiday accessories.

4. Zara

Although the best Zara coats never disappoint, it isn't the first place we'd think of to shop for ski gear. That was until the brand launched its brand-new ski collection, which features waterproof and windproof outerwear and ski suits. Unsurprisingly, it is flying off the shelves just as quickly as the best Zara jeans, so you'll have to act fast if you want to snap any of these pieces up.

5. The North Face

Making some of the best puffer jackets for women, The North Face is known for its premium quality pieces that are built to survive icy and snowy climates. They will cost you more than high street picks, but if you're ready to invest in ski gear that will last a lifetime and stand up to all weather conditions, this is one of the best brands for ski clothes. Plus, many of the outerwear fits right in with the fashion colour trends 2024 too, making for a stylish and sturdy ensemble.

6. Animal

Animal gets our vote if you want slightly trendier ski gear that won't break the bank. The collection is smaller than some other brands, but there's no shortage of the best loungewear that also deserves a place in your suitcase for downtime activities. With a range of playful patterns and affordable base layers on offer, your skiing winter capsule wardrobe is sorted.

7. H&M

Scandinavian clothing brands know a thing or two about dressing for the cold, so it's no surprise that H&M's ski collection is one of the best on the high street. The majority of pieces are windproof and water-repellent to keep you dry and warm in the snow - and as one of the best knitwear brands, you can find plenty of apres ski gear to take away with you too.

8. ASOS

ASOS is home to much more than just the best petite jeans and the best vegan boots. You will also find an impressive ski collection, with own-brand pieces and staples from established ski labels. If you want to push the boat out with your skiwear and go for chic, statement looks on the slopes, ASOS is the place to shop.

9. Arc'teryx

Arc'teryx is the label for those who have a little more to spend and want to invest in some of the best gear there is, all whilst nailing the Gorpcore trend. Each outerwear piece is fully waterproof, windproof, breathable, and durable, amongst many other premium features, which is why it comes highly recommended by ski instructor Mike Humphrey. Many of their underlayers and even the jackets could easily be styled up with some of the denim trends 2024 for everyday wear, so you can get plenty of life out of these pieces year-round.

It it better to rent or buy ski clothes?

"Skiing is an expensive sport, especially when you are just starting," notes ski instructor Humphrey. "I recommend initially renting most of your equipment, including skis, boots, helmets, poles, and outerwear. However, thermals, socks, and a good mid-layer can be used for other winter activities and are worth the investment," he says. 

If you can find a range of ski clothes that you can see yourself wearing for other occasions, like a good fleece or chic puffer coat, it's worth splurging for years worth of wear. Plus, "If you enjoy the sport, you can upgrade your gear as you go," notes Humphrey.

"Must-have ski trends for 2024 include color block looks in soft pastels and vibrant hues, as well as all-over animal prints and statement ski suits," says Yenia Hernández Fonseca, Stylist, Luxury Fashion Expert & Contributor to Margo Paige. "Other notable pieces include fun puffer jackets in high-shine metallics, colour block patterns, and cool textures such as geometric quilting, teddy, and corduroy."

Our experts:

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