Ski wear???

Hi i'm not new to skiing but this is the first time i'm gonna buy my own
clothing. What i'd like to know are what makes are good and what makes
are naff, also how much i should be looking at spending for a mid range jacket.

cheers

How long is a piece of string? Thing at's a very wide question, and how much do you want to spend. At the top end, you've got companies like Descente, SOS, North Face, Patagonia, Mover, Spyder etc all of whom sell very effective, hard wearing gear, usually made of the latest technical material and it's reflected in the price. So if you want a hardwearing outfit that will keep you warm and dry no matter what the weather will throw at you, go for one of the makes mentioned. However there are perfectly good clothing makers like Helly Hansen, Columbia, etc whose garments are almost as effective as the top manufacturers, they just don't use such expensive materials. You've then got own brands like Decathalon which be fine for average use. It's worth having a look at TKMaxx and Tchibo , you can find some remarkable bargains if you're prepared to search. Helly Hansen have an outlet store in Bicester where they discount heavily. So it depends how often you want to change your outfit, what your budget is and what you're looking for; fashion or function.

we use www.skiwear4less.com

They are in the uk and will give you a good indications of price range for each item you require.

David@traxvax is right on. Using that info search the net as well.

If you're only going to have one set of gear, then shells are more versitile than insulated jackets and pants (trousers). The best outer wear won't work if you don't have good thermals and fleeces underneath.

Trencher

I would definately go for spyder gear. Not only does it look cool but it pays for itself after a while. very hard wearing and very warm

Think i'm gonna go with a moutain jacket that i can use when i go hiking as well. Looking at a North Face summit series free thinker jacket think that shoiuld do the job nicely. Also looking at a set of blizzard thermals look ok i think

Did you say mid range ?. Looks like a great all round jacket and should be at the price. Hoods are a bit of a pain if not detachable, especially as everyone should be wearing a helmet now for skiing. If I were in that price range, how about a Marmot vortec. Gortex and detachable hood.

I picked up some Marmot gortex Randonee shell pants from TJmax (US vers. TKmax) for $99 (55pounds) last week and they are sweet.

Man, I'd love to be a personal ski shopper (when not on the slopes).

Trencher

I find Von Zipper sells really well. They have some nice sunnies, goggles, clothing & accessories ;)