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What to Wear & How to Wear It

There is a right way and a wrong way to choose and wear your snowboarding threads. Here are 5 important steps to take to help ensure a fun, pleasurable and comfortable day of snowboarding.
1. Moisture-wicking base layer

Three items form your base layer: long underwear bottoms, a long-sleeve top and socks. All should be made out of a synthetic polyester or polypropylene material such as Capilene, Coolmax or Polartec. A thin, soft wool layer (like SmartWool) works as well. (Avoid cotton - it absorbs and retains water and will only serve to keep you chilly all day.) Pull socks on over the long underwear bottoms, avoiding any bunching around your ankles. Tuck in the long-sleeve top.

2. Insulating second layer

Add at least one layer of a synthetic fleece (or wool) insulating sweater or jacket.

As the temperature and environment requires, add additional layers or a vest. Once the day heats up, you can remove layers if needed. Again, avoid cotton.
3. Outer wind- and waterproof layer

This includes your wind- and waterproof jacket and pants. Depending on your requirements and climate, you may need extra waterproofing or extra venting options (see Before You Buy A Snowboarding Jacket). Good pants will have an inner cuff (called a gaiter) that fits snugly over the top of each boot, keeping out the cold and snow.

4. Accessories

Now that you have the basics out of the way, it's time to accessorize. First, always wear a hat (or helmet) because much of your body's heat escapes through your head. Also wear goggles (see Before You Buy Snowboarding Goggles) to protect your eyes from wind and sun. In very cold conditions, use a neck gaiter -- a fleece tube that you can wear around your face and neck to keep off the frost. Lastly, add gloves or mittens (mittens are warmer than gloves) that tuck under or over your jacket cuff tightly to keep out snow (see Before You Buy Snowboarding Gloves).

5. Additional Tips

Snowboarders who ride a lot know the importance of wearing the right gear, including a beanie (hat) and goggles.

If the sun is out at all, wear sunscreen. Sun reflects off the snow, hitting you with twice the sun exposure. I've seen many a blistered face from people unaware of this mountain fact. Ouch!

[gary2004]

I recommend patagonia capilene as the base layer, very comfortable. Any fleece or wool works as the mid layer. And a waterproof/water-resistent outwear and gloves are very important. Thanks for the info.

[DayInDayOUt]

Nice article