Kids ski/snowboard checklist

Keeping your kids warm and dry is the key to keeping them happy on the slopes, if they get cold or wet it's no fun for anybody and probably the end of your days skiing. Paying extra attention to your childs skiwear is the most important factor and worth investing in if you want to enjoy your holiday. Kids do grow quickly but that is no excuse for allowing them to be in poor quality ski wear which is a sure recipe for a miserable child and therefore miserable parents! Borrow or rent if you can, otherwise try to buy things that your child will wear again.

Take a look at the ski/snowboard checklist for adults to understand more about the technology as it all applies to the kids stuff too but there are also a few other things to consider when taking your child skiing.

Layers - the layers you use are dependant on the time of year, the weather conditions and the warmth of the outer jacket. Ideally a technical baselayer worn next to the skin for insulation and moisture management, a cotton 2nd layer over the top (preferably a roll neck to protect the vulnerable neck area and to protect against cold zips) and then a fleece (thick or thin) as a 3rd layer is best, really toasty and soft but try to get one with a full or partial zip for them to undo when getting warm. This layer combination will regulate the body temperature ensuring your child doesnt get too hot or too cold. In colder conditions use more or thicker layers and always be prepared to add or remove a layer during the day.

Ski jacket and snow pants - it is important to have clothing that is suitable for the snow which will be highly water resistant or fully waterproof, windproof and breathable to reduce the risk of them getting wet and cold. It is tempting to put your child in a one piece but for ski school this can be difficult when the child is inside and cannot remove the upper half, or for girls when they need a toilet break! The jacket and snow pants option tends to be more versatile and easier to use.

Thermal bottoms - it is ideal to have technical thermal bottoms for kids to wear as additional insulation underneath their snow pants. As a last resort, they can wear tights or leggings but these will not breathe as well and could get wet.

Ski goggles or sunglasses - goggles tend to be best for the younger kids as it is comforting to have the face covered against the cold. Always ensure that the glasses and goggles are of good quality and have full UV protection and make sure they wear them at all times when around the snow. For goggles ensure that they are helmet compatible and definitely get some eyeglasses retainers for sunglasses to help keep them from getting lost or falling off.

Sunscreen - even in full cloud the UV rays can burn young and old skin so make sure you have high factor sunscreen suitable for winter sports, this will also protect against windburn and work better in lower temperatures. Best to give your child a combi stick with UV lip balm and sun cream to take with them so they can reapply in the day.

Ski socks - kids are usually fine with ski tubes but bring at least 3 pairs or more if you can. It is not unusual for kids to come back from a days skiing, change clothes, then go and play in the snow again and snow gets everywhere. You do not want to risk having cold, wet socks for them to put on in the morning!

Hat - you will need a hat for the times when your child is not skiing, try to get a nice thick one that is made of technical fleece or that has a fleece lining to help prevent a case of the itchies.

Waterproof ski gloves or mittens - we recommend bringing 2 pairs of warm, waterproof kids ski gloves on your holiday as one pair is always wet at the end of the day and not guaranteed to be dry by the morning! Try adding a pair of wristies for extra warmth and if your child is snowboarding, definitely get wristguards!

Neck warmer - these are the best things since sliced bread as far as I'm concerned - think scarf that won't get trapped in ski lifts! A neck warmer bridges the gap between your child's jacket and chin to protect the vulnerable neck area from the cold and when it's really chilly they can pull it up over their nose - great for when they are sitting on chairlifts and easy to take off when it is not so cold.

Snow boots - all kids love playing in the snow! Try to get a pair of snow boots that are insulated and have a decent tread for all that snow play. They are well worth it!

Helmet - whatever your child's age they should wear a helmet whilst skiing or snowboarding and will be required to do so at ski school. Good quality helmets can be rented with your ski equipment if you don't have your own.

• 1st layer - technical baselayer
• 2nd layers - cotton
• 3rd layers - fleece
• Ski jacket
• Snow pants
• Thermal bottoms (optional)
• Goggles/Sunglasses
• Glasses retainers (optional)
• Sunscreen

• Ski socks x 3 (minimum)
• Hat
• Ski gloves/Mittens x 2
• Wristies (optional)
• Wristguards (for snowboarders)
• Neckwarmer
• Snowboots
• Helmet

With your kids kitted out and warm and comfortable they are ready to advance at super speed, but be prepared for them to exceed your capabilities in no time!