Chaos Merino Wool Downhill Skiing

What type of skiing will you be doing?

• Downhill ski poles: Poles for alpine skiing help with balance and timing turns. Many are fixed length; some are adjustable.
• Backcountry ski poles: Opt for adjustable poles so you can lengthen poles when going uphill and shorten them when descending.
• Cross-country ski poles: Longer and lighter, designed to help you glide forward efficiently. Poles for skate skiing are longer than for classic skiing.

Find the right length

When looking for proper fit, consult the brand's sizing chart. For downhill skis, wear your boots and turn the poles upside down. Grip the poles just below the basket. Your elbow should form a 90° angle. If the angle is less than 90°, try a shorter pole. If the angle is greater, get a longer pole.

Pole features

• Straps: Wrist straps help retain poles during turns and falls. Some models have detachable straps for quick transitions.
• Baskets prevent poles from sinking into the snow. Choose a standard basket for most conditions, and use a larger basket for powder skiing.

Where do you plan to ski?

Match your skis to the conditions and areas on the mountain you enjoy skiing. Your choices are all-mountain skis, powder skis, freestyle skis and backcountry skis.

Consider the waist width of your ski:

• If you ski groomers or are a beginner, consider a narrower ski—under 90mm wide.
• If you ski the whole mountain and prize versatility, look for an all-mountain ski, from 91-114mm wide.
• For deep or soft powder purists, opt for a ski that’s 115mm or more wide.

Find your preferred ski length

• As a general rule, your skis should reach between your chin and the top of your head.

• Length also depends on your height, weight, ability level, skiing style and terrain preferences.

Choose a fabric type 

• Wool retains warmth when wet and is naturally odor resistant. It breathes more easily and wicks moisture from your feet. 

• Synthetic blends like nylon, polyester or acrylic are ideal for those with sensitive skin or are allergic to wool. These fabrics trap warmth and wick moisture. 

How much cushioning do you want?  

• No cushioning: Works well with performance boots that have a tighter fit or for those who want to feel the terrain underfoot. 

• Light cushioning: Typically padded at the shins with minimal or no cushioning on the balls of the feet; reinforced toes and heel are common. 

• Medium cushioning feature added padding for warmth and to absorb impact. Ideal for cold conditions or snowboarders with loose fitting boots.  

• Heavy cushioning: Great for extreme winter environments or low-intensity winter activities like ice fishing or riding a snowmobile. 

Length 

Most socks for skiing and snowboarding go up to the knees to help protect from shin bang. Cross-country skiers and snowshoers may want shorter length socks. 

Find your size

• Measure the circumference of the largest part of your head
• Wrap a tape measure just above your ears and about 1 inch above your eyebrows
• Use brand sizing charts to find your size
• If you can, try helmets on in-person with your goggles

Fit tips

• A good helmet should feel snug but not tight
• If the helmet rocks back and forth or shifts from side to side, the fit is too loose
• It should sit level on your head no more than 1 inch above your eyebrows

Key features:

• Vents: Let cool air in and warm air out. Adjustable vents help fine-tune airflow
• Liners: Adjust liners or ear pads for warmth
• Goggles compatibility: Fit snugly to the top of the goggles without gaps

Happy riding!

Understand lens shapes

• Cylindrical: More affordable, but can cause more glare and slightly limit peripheral vision
• Spherical: Better peripheral vision, less distortion and less glare. Cost more than cylindrical lenses
• Toric: Offer improved optical clarity and reduced distortion—at a higher price point

Light transmission (VLT)

VLT is the percentage of light that passes through the lens to reach your eyes

• Bright conditions: Look for less than 25%
• Partly cloudy: Aim for between 25%-50%
• Overcast, stormy or low-light: Look for 50% or higher
• Night riding: Use clear goggles or 80%-100%

Other features:

• Low bridge fit: Ideal for those with higher cheekbones or lower nose bridges
• Interchangeable lenses for easy swaps
• Photochromic lenses adjust to changing light
• Extra lens included: Two lenses for different light conditions

Key features of backcountry snow shovels:

• Material: Because of its low weight and high strength, aluminum predominates. Plastic shovels aren't suited to avalanche rescue.
• Comfort: Low weight and a comfortable, ergonomic grip will make a shovel easier to use.
• Length: Longer, extended shafts may give you better leverage to scoop snow faster while shorter shafts cut down on weight.

Types of snow shovels:

• Fully flat blades are best for snow study, such as creating smooth snow-pit walls.
• Scooped blades are less likely to spill snow off the sides during shoveling.
• Serrated blade edges can be used to bust up ice.
• Blades with holes in them can be used (with a length of accessory cord) to build snow anchors; holes also make a shovel slightly lighter to carry.

T-grip vs. D-grip handles:

• T-grip: Grasped between the fingers, this is a lightweight design that works well; can be awkward when wearing mittens.
• D-grip: Slightly bulkier and heavier than a T-grip, it is relatively easy to use while wearing mittens.