Combatting the cold
Cold. It’s unavoidable when you hit the snow. But there are a range of things you can do to combat low temperatures while enjoying those long hours out on the slopes.
Remember it gets colder the higher up you go. Sun or no sun, it’ll be quite a different temperature up on the slopes than down at the ski lodge. And the winds will be stronger too, increasing the wind chill factor. If you can, check the ski field temperatures and wind chill factors before you leave the lodge.
Make sure your clothes are the right kind that can keep you warm by trapping air. Dressing in layers, particularly, helps to create air traps that can conserve your body heat. It also means you can quickly adapt to temperature changes.
Start the layers with polypropylene underwear. It’s comfortable to wear, keeps you warm, absorbs sweat and dries quickly. Top this with a sweater, and a jacket and ski pants.
If you’re feeling the cold, get active! Active skiing produces up to six times more body heat than just sitting. Shivering while in the chairlift? Try wiggling your toes, stretching out your legs to warm up your thighs and tightening and relaxing your grip on the poles.
The sun’s reflection off the snow exposes your skin to increased risk of burning. Make sure you apply lots of sun block with a high sun protection factor (SPF). The cold can also cause your lips to swell and crack, so it’s advisable to regularly apply lip balm or moisturiser.
Eating the right food can help you cope with the cold. While protein and fat will give you longer lasting energy, for quick heat energy you need to eat carbohydrates, including sugars.
Avoid smoking as this can slow your blood circulation. Also avoid alcohol as, after an initial heat rush, it dilates your blood vessels, which causes you to feel cold.
