Author
Tanner Bowden
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The start of ski season coincides naturally with the holidays, and while making snowfall predictions is dicey work, it's a sure bet that any skiers you know will love a new addition to their always evolving kit.
The best gifts for skiers pull double duty, be it for on and off mountain wear, or use inbounds and the backcountry. This might be something as simple (but essential) like a pair of ski-specific socks or a new beanie. Or more involved like a pair of custom-fit snow goggles, or boots for après ski. (Or a new pair of swallowtail skis, if you're seeking eternal devotion in return.)
With the most picky, design-driven skiers in mind, I've compiled the following list of the best gifts for skiers, according to a lifelong skier (yours truly). Anything on this shredder-approved list of ski gift ideas is sure to be adored and, when that winter-making storm finally does roll through, used well. Read on and dig in.
The 13 Best Gifts for Skiers of 2023
Smartwool Intraknit™ Thermal Merino Base Layer
Wearing the right base layer is foundational when it comes to a comfortable day on the ski hill. And there's no better material for it than magical Merino wool—it's naturally temperature regulating, antimicrobial, and anti-odor. This high-tech iteration from Smartwool is 3D-knit for an advanced fit specific to men with targeted ventilation to balance warmth and breathability. (Women's styles also available.)
Smith Squad Imprint 3D Goggle
With novel app-based face-scanning tech, Smith can now create custom ski goggles that are form fitting and totally unique to their wearer. Each pair comes with two lenses and a hard case.
Vermont Glove Jefflo Mitt
Made by hand in the same state where the first rope-tow was invented, these mittens use good ol' goat leather and waxed canvas to achieve incredible durability and remarkable warmth in a simple design that'll last through even the harshest winters. There's room for hand warmers inside but no, goat leather is not touchscreen compatible.
Smartwool Targeted Cushion Over The Calf Ski Socks
Made in the USA with Merino Wool and Recycled Nylon with just a smidge of elastane for stretch and targeted cushioning where it matters most, these naturally breathable, moisture-wicking socks are the perfect gift to buckle boots over. Durable, warm, and comfortable for even the longest days on hill. Remember, one can never have too many good socks!
Berengia Tsurugi Anorak Jacket
From Berengia's design lab in Tokyo comes this minimalist softshell anorak ski jacket. With its unique diagonal zip closure and excellent balance of waterproofing and breathability, it's a sure bet for mountains anywhere in the world, and one of the best ski gifts of the season.
Skida Low Pile Fleece Hat
Classic Polartec fleece makes for ideal and toasty retro winter headwear. Wear it on the ski lift and everywhere else this winter.
Topo Designs Mountain Fleece Crew
Topo's recycled fleece pullover proves midlayers don't have to look all tech-y and out of place on their own. This one's fit for wearing at the cabin and in coffee shops, not just on black diamond runs at the ski resort.
Patagonia Powder Town Bibs
Fully waterproof, PFC-free, two-layer shell fabric are the basis of these blizzard-capable women's bibs from Patagonia. Hand pockets, a chest pocket, leg vents, built-in gaiters, and some extra microfleece insulation in the rear are the accouterments that make skiers leave them on long after the chairlifts stop spinning.
Fubuki Niseko 2.0 Boots
After a long day, there's nothing like kicking off the ski boots and slipping into a bomber pair of snow boots. These funky-stylish boots are a clever iteration on what Hokkaido lifties and locals wear during legendary Japanese winters, redesigned by a pair of Swedes and made for tromping around anywhere there's snow.
MountainFLOW Green Circle Wax Kit
A full home waxing kit is crucial for any skier who wants to slide at their best. MountainFLOW's biodegradable plant-based wax will help them do so responsibly and with respect to Mother Nature. A great gift for loved ones this holiday season—maybe they'll give you a free wax in return.
Folkrm Pahto Ski Poles
The Folkrm's extended EVA grip and collapsible height are the ideal blend for skiers who spend as much time going uphill as downhill. (They also pack nicely alongside base layers and balaclavas for ski trips.)
Raide LF 40L Ski Pack
After stints at SpaceX and The North Face, engineer-founder Kyle Siegel decided to create a high-quality backcountry ski bag that's loaded with innovative features—like a unique pocket for avy tools and a low-profile sling for ski helmets—and looks pretty darn sleek too.
Season Forma Skis
With a directional swallowtail design made to plane in deep snow and carve on the groomed stuff, the Forma is a wishlist-worthy pair of skis that'd make any skier's season.
Voile Straps
Classic Voile ski straps are a wildly underrated piece of ski gear—and really, an essential piece of any adventurers EDC kit, as their usefulness extends far beyond keeping your planks in place during travel. At under ten bucks, they make the perfect stocking stuffers.
Published 12-05-2023
