WHAT TO TAKE ON THE SLOPE

Waterproof and breathable, keep that in mind as cotton gets wet and only makes you cold. Stay away from jeans etc!  Its recommended you go for moisture wicking fabrics for the inner and waterproof, wind-resistant shells or jackets and pants over the top (outer). The key is to layer up. You can always take off a layer if you get too hot!

BASE LAYER
1. Thermal Body and 2. Thermal Pants, The first level of clothing is usually thermal (depending on the temperature). If you opt for a wicking fabric, it will keep you both warm and dry by wicking moisture away from the body.

3. Ski Socks. To keep not only warm and dry but to also protect against the boot and hard impacts. There are a variety of specialist socks with design grips to help with extra control.

SECONDARY LAYERS
4. Fleece, Jackets and Jumpers
Secondary layers are more sturdy, jumpers, sweaters and jackets. Requirements will depend on the conditions.

5. Pants
A good quality pant will keep you dray and warm this is the insulation layer, you can also get specialist features like padded knees and extra pockets. A good pant will be made of several layers and till protect you as well as keep you warm.

6. Ski Boots
Ski boots work together with the bingings to keep you connect to the skis. Consult the hire shop or visit a reputable retailer, with experience you will be able to buy your equipment online.

OUTERS & FINISHINGS
7. Helmets, Hat or beanie
Its dangerous not to cover up, keeping your head warm is a large part of keep warm in general. Coupled with the fact that the UV rays are brutal at altitude. Its advisable for off piste skiers to wear a helmet, and also for beginners. There is a huge variety on the market and can not only look good but be comfortable.

8. Goggles and Glasses
Always protect your eyes from the intense light and UV rays. The combination of the altitude and the reflection of the snow causes the rays to be more intense. UV Rays can damage your eyes and cause 'snow blindness'.

9. Jackets
A wind-stoppable and waterproof jacket is a must. It protects your inners and keeps your body from exposure to extremes. The jackets are usually highly technical with various breathable layers and wicking, usually referred to as a three layer system, again this will wick moisture, keep you warm and be water/wind-proof.

A good tip is to avoid cloths that are too big or too small, this has the effect of diluting the benefits of the fabrics technology.

PROTECTIVE GEAR AND GOGGLES

The sun can be brutal. At altitude the air is colder and the sun less filtered through the atmosphere. Sunburns at high altitude may also have a longer delay factor - they may not show up until you are more seriously burned than you would be at lower altitude, you will soon be the proud owner of a goggle tan! don't forget to wear your sun protection as well as your goggles or sunglasses . Tinted goggles or sunglasses with complete protection from ultraviolet light (UV rays are amplified when they reflect off the snow, making them especially harmful to eyes and skin).Sunglasses are a must when taking five hanging by the bar, less chunky but just as essential. 

INSURANCE

Don't forget if you are UK resident and traveling within the Europe Union (EU) you need to get your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This gives you certain health care entitlements check out the Government website to apply for free: Click here

In the unfortunate case of injury, being choppered off the mountain would be extremely expensive, for the best cover we would recommend: AA Travel Insurance, Tesco, Post Office. These also cover not only personal injury, but also lost luggage, cancelled flights and closed resorts, just don't forget to apply for 'winter sports cover'.