How to Buy the Best Ski Clothing

Whether you're preparing for your first ski holiday, or just need to get yourself kitted out again, how do you know what to get? I'm going to try to answer that question and give you some tips on what and where to buy.

1.A good jacket is obviously one of the most important items, and you want to look for something that is very waterproof without sacrificing breathability. I would recommend going for a jacket with at least a 5'000mm (meaning it would hold out against a 5'000mm column of water on top of it).

2. There isn't much point in having a really good jacket on the outside if you dont have a layer next to your skin that can wick the moisture away from it, most sports tops, or skiing specific base layers will do this. Without this, you can feel uncomfortable and your temperature regulation may be all over the place.

3.Most people go for the trusted 3-layer system, with a thermal underwear base layer, a casual top or fleece jacket in the middle, then an outer layer to protect you from the wind and rain.

4.Salopettes - If you think you might be falling over a lot (be honest!), then it's probably worth buying the old-style salopettes with a high waist and braces. These will ensure no snow getting down your trousers, and are hidden away under your jacket. But for the more confident, or style conscious, the majority of salopettes are now standard waisted.

5. Waterproof salopettes are just as important as a waterproof jacket, maybe even moreso for snowboarders. so again look for the 5'000mm standard.

6.Gloves - Once you're hands get cold, skiing can become pretty miserable pretty fast. So don't skimp on gloves. I tend to spend more on my gloves/ mittens than almost any other item of clothing! So if you know that your hands get cold easily, get some gloves with big fleecy lining and a leather or goretex outer layer. Mittens are also much warmer than gloves, but are not for everyone.

7.Socks - Don't be fooled by big thick fluffy socks, the way your feet will stay warm is from a layer of air between them and your boot, and by being able to move a bit. If you have big socks, then you'll have to do your boots up so tight in order to get enough control that your feet will get squashed and cold much faster. I suffer badly from cold feet, but now I just ski in very thin thermal socks I have no problems. Silk thermal socks are very thin and very warm, and an essential item from anyone who feels the cold.

8. Hats/Helmets. There is an endless choice of hats and helmets nowadays. I always recommend helmets over hats, DEFINATELY for children, they are just as stylish, and can usually be rented from your ski hire shop cheaply.

9.Buy on-line - if you know your size, or are shopping for 1-size-fits-all items such as hats or some thermals, you can get great deals online. Or check out Auction sites for some real bargains.

10.Discount clothes shops!!! I love these shops for ski gear. In fact, I just bought my new jacket for this season at one. It all hits the shelves around September, and even though you don't always know what you'll get, if you're prepared to hunt around a little bit, the rewards are huge!

So there are my ten top tips for buying ski clothing. Enjoy.