Warm weather and no snow storms typically means the end of ski season. When you ski and snowboard at a place like Mammoth Mountain where snowfall regularly tops 400 inches, spring skiing reaches all the way into summer.
Of course, we’d be lying if we said spring skiing is the same as winter. It’s warmer, there’s less snow, and the remaining snow is slushy unless you time it just right and find corn. Plus, since skiing and snowboarding clothes are designed for winter it’s hard to decide what to wear for spring skiing. That’s why the ASO Mammoth team has put together a quick guide to what to wear for spring skiing below!
Check it out, then stop by the ASO Mammoth shop for the fastest and friendliest ski and snowboard rentals in Mammoth Lakes!
Regular T-Shirts Work Well
The number one thing you want to avoid while skiing or snowboarding is getting your base layer wet. If you do, then you’ll be freezing in no time regardless of whether you’re riding in winter or spring.
However, if you’re an experienced skier or snowboarder then chances are you can control yourself well enough to not fall and get your shirt wet. If you do that, then a regular t-shirt is a great choice for spring skiing since it will keep you from sweating unlike a regular winter jacket would.
A Waterproof Bib is Ideal
Your legs are a different story, and you should not wear anything other than regular ski pants, or ideally a bib, for spring skiing.
Even if you’re an excellent skier or snowboarder your legs are going to get wet while you’re on the snow. Plus, you’re going to sit down at some point on the snow and you’ll stand up wet if you’re wearing anything but ski pants.
A bib is perfect for spring skiing because it completely covers your legs and waist while keeping your arms, chest, and back exposed so that you can easily stay cool and dry.
Don’t Forget to Open Your Vents
Even with a bib and a t-shirt, you still may get warm while spring skiing.
Fortunately, most pants and bibs come with zipper vents so that you can quickly cool off. Open your vents as soon as you feel yourself starting to sweat so your base layers don’t get soaked.
Consider Wearing a Wind Shell
Even when the weather is warm, the wind blowing at elevation can get cold quickly. We recommend having some type of wind shell or light sweater in case the winds pick up. They’re easy to change into or out of, and you’ll be able to ride earlier and later when the air is cooler if you have one.
Don’t Forget Your Sunscreen
Lastly, don’t forget to wear sunscreen! You should always wear sunscreen while skiing and snowboarding, but the sun is out for longer during spring so you’ll get more exposure. Apply sunscreen before you hit the snow and don’t be afraid to reapply throughout the day.