Powder Maxing Guide
January 2026
So many snowstorms lately, and we are loving the winter wonderland it is creating (pretended that next day brown sludge isn’t a thing right now)! And lots of snow means it’s officially ski season. Look, we all know that half the appeal of a ski trip is the cold weather aesthetic. There's something about overpiced cocktails in a lodge setting with a fireplace, the feeling of getting to a fresh patch of powder before anyone else, and the perfect outfit that your friends can pick out from a ski run away. So whether you're a serious athlete who's first chair every morning, do a couple of sick tricks at the park and call it a day type of person, or someone who spends more time in the lodge than on actual skiswhether we have an outfit for everyone making their way out to the mountains these next couple months!
The lodge Lounger
When we say "lodge lounger," we don't mean to say you don't partake in some skiing or snowboarding, just that you may prioritize a drink in the lounge more than freezing while going up and down a mountain all day. And, hey, there is no shame in wanting to lounge around in a sick jacket and throw back a cocktail or two. For this outfit, we are starting with a plaid jacket that feels serious enough that no one calls your actual skiing ability into question, but still cool enough that you aren't sacrificing style either. Pair this with a baggy pair of ski pants that you would honestly wear in real life if it were cold enough during your commute. For underneath, we have a dual-toned thermal jacket and some baggy grey sweats, because if you are planning on becoming great friends with the lodge bartender, you may as well have a cool outfit under the supposed ski outfit. Finish it off with some sporty sunglasses and a pair of sneaker boots. Now, no matter if you decide you do want to take a run or two, or you become the group's home base/seat saver, you'll be ready.
The Green Circle Goer
Green circle runs get a bad rep in our opinion. Yes, we can admit that if you're snowboarding, they definitely suck. We've done our fair share of getting dragged by a ski pole or hopping along a flat part when you lose speed too quickly, but if you're skiing, it's a whole different story. Hiking a green circle is anything but an easy way out; it could be argued that it's more of a workout, lugging those skis an entire run rather than just gliding down a mountain. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to forgo some of the heavier skiwear and have a little more fun with your outfit. Begin with a full beige ski suit that makes your waist look as snatched as if you were wearing a corset. For the midlayer, go with a colorful thermal for a little pop of color when you need to undo a couple of buttons and some cozy leggings that look cute and keep you from that bulky feeling in your ski boots. Complete the look with a fuzzy headband, some puffy mittens, and waterproof boots, and you may just be the adorable girl on the slopes!
The Blue Square Stan
Blue square runs are where it's at. Hard enough that you feel a sense of pride once you get down the mountain, but not nearly as intense as a black diamond that feels like you had a close brush with death by the end of it. No one ever has anything bad to say about a good old blue, and if you are one of those people trying to get the absolute most out of your ski pass, it's easier to convince people to take another run or two if they aren't hanging on for dear life through a patch of moguls or down an almost vertical sheet of ice. For the outfit, we have a bright colored technical jacket that your group will definitely be able to keep track of you in. Pair it with semi-baggy snow pants that are both practical and incredibly cool-looking. To keep you warm, go with a thick athletic fleece jacket and jogger sweats. Pair these pieces with a snug skull cap (can't go wrong with the classic Arc'teryx toques) and a good sports-style boot. The perfect look to lead a group while still being able to show off when you hit those little man-made side jumps.
The park Groupie
Oh, the snow park runs. The perfect way to lower some men's egos while bringing a little excitement, if you find normal runs to feel monotonous. We admit it, we always feel really, really cool when we master a park trick. We don't care that we only got a foot of air; it felt like 10 feet, and if you have a video proving it wasn't, no, you don't. The park is where the real fashion show is. Where else can you show off the sick design on the bottom of your board or skis and don't even try to tell us that a good outfit doesn't immediately make a trick seem cooler? Oversized is key here; you will definitely want a baggy black jacket and some even baggier ski pants. The same goes for your innerwear—go with a wide fit sweatpant and a layered t-shirt over a sweatshirt top. We can't forget about a good beanie to peek out under your helmet (lol, but actually safety first, please) and a chunky black snow boot. There's nothing like a compliment from a fellow park enthusiast and this outfit almost guarantees some praise no matter how skilled you might be.
Fear of God Essentials
Too Shady
Moon Boots
The Black diamond Junkie
Oh, so you are an athlete, huh? Black diamond runs are not for the faint of heart. Although we did see a 6-year-old absolutely rip down the mountain last time we skied, which was a bit humbling to say the least. If you consider yourself athletically gifted, you should probably dress the part. Difficult runs mean you need good gear, but that's not to say it can't also look good, too. And what says "I'm a pro" more than all black with a sprinkle of camo? For your jacket, go with a slick black style. Pair it with some camo snow pants that are fitted enough not to get in your way without looking like the skier equivalent of skinny jeans. For peak performance, go with a half-zip nylon pullover and slightly fitted black joggers. Don't forget some functional boots and, even more important, a backpack because you are here to compete, not hang out, so packing everything you may need to last all day with no breaks is essential.
Fear of God Essentials
Oakley
Salomon
The Tree Trail Taker
If you gravitate towards the tree trails, you definitely know how to have some fun. Nothing boosts your adrenaline like ripping through the woods. Your skiwear is going to have to be incredibly functional if you want to give yourself the best odds of avoiding running into a tree while being bright enough to ensure your friends don't lose sight and begin to fear for your safety and your sanity. By bright, we don't mean you have to be wearing neon. For a less obnoxious option, opt for a pastel pink ski jacket and match it with some solid black pants. Under that, we have an oversized thermal and some sage green sweatpants, because who says sporty and feminine can't coexist? Complete the look with a flirty flower beanie and some classic Ugg boots. The perfect recipe for an outfit you can take right off the isolated trails and into the lodge when you finally decide you are ready to socialize.
