Essential Gear for Skiing in Eastern Canada’s Chilly Climate

Having skied in various regions across North America including Eastern and Western Canada, Vermont, New York State, and Utah, I’ve observed that the choice of gear in Eastern Canada can significantly impact one’s skiing experience. Particularly during the colder months, which, in my opinion, offer the best conditions. A frequent challenge is the limited availability of specific gear suited for the cold, humid climates of places like Mont Tremblant in conventional sports stores. It often necessitates online shopping or a visit to a specialty ski store. The months of January and February, in particular, demand unique gear preparations distinct from other North American skiing locations. I’ll have a clearer perspective once I ski in Europe, but until then, here’s my take on the essentials.

Item # 1: Airhole Airtube

I am in love with my Airtube. Even though the model I prefer is rated for -10°C, it’s sufficient when spending significant time in the glades getting in my cardio. On a -30°C day, body heat accumulates rapidly when working so hard. However, if groomers are more your speed on frigid days, I recommend seeking out the airhole designed for lower temperatures. The versatility of the -10°C model makes it wearable year-round, negating the need for multiple purchases. My wife, a beginner to intermediate skier, prefers having two pairs: a polar fleece for -20°C and a lighter one for -5°C. And while no gear can completely prevent goggle fog, this does reduce it considerably because you are exhaling through a hard plastic hole. My experiences skiing on the West Coast and places like Vermont suggest less of a fogging issue, primarily due to drier (West Coast) and warmer (Vermont) conditions. Surprisingly, even during their chilliest days, I sometimes found no need for a face mask in these destinations.

Item # 2: Boot Glove

For extremely cold days in Eastern Canada, you might find the boot glove indispensable. Regardless of the quality of your boots, toes can get cold. With the boot glove, I’ve managed all-day skiing stints without needing indoor breaks. Even with my high-end boots, a bit of cold air sneaks in, but the glove ensures my feet remain warm and dry.

In summary, everyone eventually settles into a rhythm, finding gear that’s tailor-made for their needs. For those unaccustomed to the icy, cold, and humid conditions of Eastern Canada, consider my suggestions as a starting point. It’s essential to remember that frostbite and windburn are real threats. In the end, layering up and ensuring full protection for your face and extremities is crucial.