What to wear in the Alps in winter? These are your must haves!

Planning a winter trip to the Alps and wondering what to wear? From skiing and snowboarding to winter hiking on cold, sunny days in the mountains, this guide covers exactly what to pack and how to layer for an active Alpine winter.

Let’s start with an obvious one. Marketing will always try to convince you that you need something new or better. I am all about sustainability, working with what you already own, and shopping second-hand first. You can absolutely wear an regular wool sweater or socks with holes in them. As long as you are warm, comfortable, and safe, there is no need to buy anything new. There are only a few items I consider essential for an active winter day in the Alps.

Winter essentials for a cold, active day in the Alps

• Beanie, because heat escapes mostly through your head, so protect it from icy winds

• Gloves made for cold weather

• Water- and windproof winter jacket

• Multiple layers of sports clothing, for example a base layer and a fleece vest. Add more layers depending on the temperature.

• Sunglasses to protect your eyes from sun and snow reflection

• Waterproof pants, such as hiking pants or ski trousers

• Helmet for skiing and snowboarding

• Sunscreen, yes, even when the sun is not out

Now that we’ve covered the absolute essentials, let’s look at what else helps you fully enjoy a winter trip to the Alps.

Outerwear for winter sports: soft shell vs hard shell

There are two main types of outer layers: soft shell and hard shell. If you want to play in the snow, you will need a hard shell jacket or pants. These are fully waterproof and windproof. For skiing and snowboarding — activities where you spend a lot of time in the snow, a hard shell jacket is essential. If you are hiking and there is no rain, soft shell outerwear is enough. Still, always bring a rain jacket just in case. In the Alps, weather conditions can change quickly.

Budget tip: A puffer jacket works well as a soft shell, and almost any rain jacket can function as a hard shell. Just add enough layers underneath for warmth.

How to layer clothing for warmth and dryness

A good layering system does more than keep you warm. It also helps your body regulate temperature and dry sweat quickly. How do you build a layering system?

• Base layer: keeps you dry and warm by wicking sweat away

• Mid layer: provides insulation and traps body heat

• Outer layer: protects you from wind, rain, snow, and sun

Budget tip: Use a long-sleeve sports shirt, a fleece or wool sweater, and your jacket. Voilà, a complete layering system you probably already have in your closet.

How many layers do you need?

This rough guide helps you decide how many layers to wear. Are you going hiking? Then start cold. Dress as if it is 10 degrees hotter than it actually is. In my experience, you will heat up really fast. This saves you taking off your jacket after 5 minutes.

• Above 5°C (41°F)
  Base layer + light mid layer + soft shell or rain jacket

• 0°C to 5°C (32–41°F)
  Base layer + warm mid layer + hard shell

• -5°C to 0°C (23–32°F)
  Base layer + warm mid layer + insulated jacket or extra fleece

• Below -5°C (23°F)
  Base layer + thick mid layer + insulated jacket + hard shell
  Add thermal leggings, thicker socks, and extra accessories

Always pack one extra layer. Wind, altitude, and shade can make it feel much colder than the temperature suggests. Also when you are tired or hungry, you may feel colder.

Best fabrics for winter sports: wool vs polyester

When it comes to winter sports clothing, there are two main fabric types: wool and polyester. Some people prefer one over the other, but in my experience both have their place in a sports wardrobe.

Wool

• Very warm in cold conditions

• Breathable when temperatures rise

• Dries slowly but stays warm when wet

• Naturally odor-resistant

Polyester

• Traps body heat efficiently

• Can feel sweaty in warmer conditions

• Dries quickly but can feel cold once wet

• Gets smelly faster

Avoid cotton in winter

Once cotton gets wet, it dries very slowly. Wet means cold, and cold can quickly lead to hypothermia. Feeling cold doesn’t just ruin your day, it can be dangerous. Stick to wool or polyester and always bring an extra layer. Mountain weather can change fast.

Budget tip: I have not noticed a difference between regular wool sweaters and sports-specific wool layers. So I think you can wear a normal sweaters for an active day in the winter. Wool is itchy for you? May be wear it as a mid layer rather than a base layer.

Socks: small item, big impact

Socks are often underestimated, but they make a huge difference on cold winter days.

• Wool or merino wool socks are very popular at the moment. I wear those and normal cotton socks, they work fine for me in the winter in the Alps.

• Thicker socks add warmth, but make sure your shoes still fit properly

• For very cold days, you can layer socks (a thin liner sock plus a wool sock), as long as your shoes are not too tight.

Shoes for winter hiking in the Alps

In the winter in the Alps you can wear normal hiking shoes with thicker socks or winter hiking shoes. Those are more insulated and extra warm. I feel like shoes are the only category of outerwear where you may need to spend money if you do not already have some. Good shoes are super important for your safety, especially in the winter when roads and hiking paths are often slippery. Falling on ice can be very painful, if not dangerous.

Check if your shoes have a good profile, make sure they are waterproof and have no holes. I would not recommend trail running shoes, as they are not high enough in snowy conditions. Invest in a pair of spikes (crampons) when you are often out in the winter on trails.

Checklist: what to wear for a winter trip to the Alps

Use this checklist to pack efficiently:

• Beanie

• Gloves

• Hard shell or waterproof winter jacket

• Soft shell or insulated jacket

• Base layers (wool or polyester)

• Mid layers (fleece or wool sweater)

• Waterproof pants

• Warm socks

• Winter hiking shoes or boots

• Helmet (skiing/snowboarding)

• Sunglasses or goggles

• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF

• Optional: spikes (crampons)

Winter sports don’t have to be cold — or expensive

You probably already own most of what you need, or can borrow items from friends. Staying warm in the Alps is not about buying more gear, but about layering smart and choosing the right fabrics.

FAQ: Winter clothing for the Alps

What should I wear in the Alps in winter?
Wear layered clothing that keeps you warm, dry, and protected from wind and snow. A base layer, warm mid layer, and waterproof outer layer are usually enough for most winter days.

How cold is winter in the Alps?
Temperatures vary by altitude and weather, but winter temperatures often range from 10°C to below -15°C. Wind and shade can make it feel much colder.

Do I need special clothing for skiing in the Alps?
You don’t need expensive or new gear, but you do need waterproof outerwear and proper layering. Staying dry and warm is more important than having technical brands.

Can I wear normal hiking shoes in winter in the Alps?
Yes, as long as they are waterproof and have good grip. For icy conditions, spikes (crampons) are highly recommended.

Where can I buy good outdoor clothing for the Alps?
Whenever possible, check second-hand platforms or local outdoor shops to shop more sustainably. I like to shop from Bergzeit, Bergfreunde, and Intersport, they offer a wide range of winter and outdoor clothing.

Where should I invest money first for a winter trip in the Alps?
Your first investment should be in good hiking or winter shoes. Waterproof, insulated shoes with a strong grip are essential for safety and comfort on icy trails, even more than buying expensive jackets or layers.