Valetmont advices to protect you from the cold

Base Layer

This layer is used to transfer sweating from the body to the outside as quickly as possible, to not create a feeling of wetness.

It is important because if the body is wet, the cold sets in permanently. The cotton t-shirt (or turtleneck) that traps moisture and causes cold snaps when you stop your effort.

An effective first layer is worn next to the skin and can be chosen from technical underwear in synthetic fibers or merino wool.

Mid-Layer

The second layer provides warmth to the body while expelling away moisture.

This layer is more or less warm depending on the weight and is chosen according to the outside temperature. It should be light and compact so that it fits easily into a bag when temperatures rise.

Fleeces are very effective as a second layer thanks to their insulating performance and their ability to dry quickly. Light down jackets in natural or synthetic down are also a good choice because they are very warm and compact.

Third Layer

The third and final layer should protect from rain, snow and wind.

This layer is waterproof and windproof but also breathable to complete the work of the two previous layers. It can also provide thermal insulation with doubled models.

Depending on the needs, the weather and the activity of the practitioners, this third layer can be more or less protective, light, functional, warm or resistant.

Gloves

Wearing gloves or mittens to your size and especially not too tight in order to let the blood circulate is essential to protect yourself from the cold

To help you in your choice, see our article 'How to choose your ski gloves' on our blog.

Eyes

In winter, whether the sun is shining or not, the brightness is maximum from the snow. Wearing a pair of glasses or ski goggles adapted to the light is essential to the risk of suffering from snow ophthalmic.

Whatever the conditions, we advise you to opt for a category 3 protective glass, even on foggy days when the brightness remains high.

Neck

The Buff or a classic neck warmer will be the essential accessories to protect you during the harsh days of January when the sun beats to warm the atmosphere.

To be worn just around the neck or up to under the nose, it will close the last outlet through which heat could still escape. A small accessory that does not take up space, easy to put on and take off, but which can fix everything.

Head

A large part of the body's heat loss occurs in the head. It is therefore essential to protect your head and ears with a beanie.

If you ski you can equip yourself with a helmet that will keep you warm and protect your head in the event of a fall or impact. If you don't have a helmet, opt for a fleece or wool beanie.

A 'fleece lined' hat will be perfect for those who are sensitive to itching caused by wool. For a warmer hat, prefer wool to synthetic materials. Merino wool is of course the best.