Insider Tips For a Successful Ski Holiday With Kids

You have made the commitment and are taking your kids on a ski holiday. Whether it is their first time or they are a regular visitor to the slopes, dressing them correctly can make or break your holiday. A warm, comfortable child is a happy child and their enjoyment on the slopes will make the holiday. Ensuring your young ones are having the best time on the slopes will lay the foundation for many more ski holidays to come.Β 

As the Rhythm crew grows, more junior shredders have been added to the extended family so we have asked some of our parents for their top tips to keep the groms warm and comfortable. Below are some of our useful insights for a successful ski holiday from those in the know.

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Waterproof snow outerwear

boy wearing burton one-piece outerwear

It doesn’t matter if you ski, snowboard, or just play in the snow, the correct waterproof rated outerwear will keep you dry and warm. Kids will spend a lot of time sitting down and playing in the snow so it’s important they don’t get wet. We recommend the rating to be at least 10K. Pro tip: choose a jacket with a lift pass pocket on the sleeve to make navigating lift turnstiles a breeze.

Bib Pants Or A One-PieceΒ 

As the kids are likely to spend a lot of time sitting down or falling down bib pants or a one-piece will stop snow from creeping into the pants. Although these can be a little tricky for toilet stops we believe it is worth the tradeoff to stay warm. Our top staff pick would be the Burton Toddlers One-piece.

Layering

Just like for adults, it is very important to layer and not rely on bulky individual garments for warmth. Both merino and synthetic baselayers have great moisture-wicking qualities and act as good base layers. We recommend leggings and a long sleeve top for the first layer and either a fleece or crew neck as a mid-layer. If the child gets too warm it’s easy to remove a layer to regulate temperature.

Good Quality Socks

Long, tight-fitting socks that are specifically designed for skiing should be worn inside ski and snowboard boots. Well-fitting socks will keep the feet warm allowing good blood flow and staying in position. A good fit will prevent slipping or bunching inside the boot which avoids discomfort and blisters. Do not be tempted to double up on socks.

Neckwarmer Or Balaclava

child wearing oyuki proclava

A lot of heat is lost through the head and neck so it’s essential to keep these parts covered and trap the heat in. Most balaclavas are designed to fit underneath a helmet and not slip down as a neck warmer might. The Oyuki Fleececlava JR is a top staff pick and can be combined with a neckwarmer on the really cold January days. Cover the nose and mouth on the lifts for extra warmth but remember not to tuck the balaclava into the goggles when skiing down as this may fog the goggles.

Gloves Or Mittens

For younger children, we recommend the additional warmth provided by mitts and having the fingers all together. Pro tip: choose gloves or mittens with a zipper pocket on the back, on the cold days you can put the hand warmers in these for extra warmth. Having a wrist leash on the gloves or mittens is essential to prevent lost gloves or any mistimed glove drops from the lift. If spending extended time on the hill it’s always useful to have a spare pair of gloves or mittens to change into through the day as they normally get wet after some extended snowball making.

Glove Liners

Not only easier to wash than gloves or mittens, they add an extra layer of warmth on really cold days.

Goggles, Not Sunglasses

We all know sunglasses look cool but having goggles for skiing is way more practical. They offer more warmth, more protection, and are less likely to fall off in a crash. Sunglasses are a great option for snow play to protect your kid’s eyes from glare.

Helmet

child being fitted with rental helmet at Rhythm Base

Β Forward-thinking resorts are making helmets compulsory, especially for kids taking part in lessons. We recommend a correctly fitting helmet to protect your young ones’ heads. Buying with an adjuster ensures the headwear will last a few seasons as they grow. Safety first when bringing the kids on a ski holiday!

Bright Colours

Choose a bright-coloured helmet and outerwear to locate and easily identify your child when it’s busy or the conditions are not great. Bright colours also add pop to the family ski photo.

Take Multiple Breaks

Kids rarely feel tired if they are having fun so take regular breaks and a cheeky hot chocolate to warm them up and prevent energy slumps. Pocket snacks for the lifts and on-mountain stops are a nice treat. Although the temperature is cold it is really important to stay hydrated so drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Rent Your Gear

Kids outgrow gear so fast and renting will ensure the equipment fits correctly and is set up for the child’s current weight and ability. Poorly fitting gear is not fun and skis that are not set up correctly can be a hazard.Β 

niseko kids lessons
Get Lessons

Last but not least, get a professional to do the hard work. Give your youngsters a good foundation for technique and free up your own time to enjoy the mountain. Lessons take the stress out of teaching them yourself. Be careful though, they will be ripping faster than you in no time at all!

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We hope some of these tips will help make your ski holiday with the kids a fuss-free experience. Please visit our services for a full range of kids’ outerwear and accessories, rentals and lessons.

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