Start by wearing underwear and a sports bra made of 100% polyester or wool. Polyester moves moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry and warm, while cotton absorbs sweat and cools you down — even under a polyester baselayer. For best results, wear a snug-fitting polyester baselayer, especially under the arms, to let moisture escape. In cold or windy weather, choose a baselayer or underwear with wind protection in the front for extra comfort.

For lower-intensity skiing, a polyester–wool blend is ideal. Wool doesn’t move moisture as efficiently but provides great warmth, making it perfect for cold, slow days on the trail.

Outside of the baselayer add a middle layer on the upper body to keep you warm in cold conditions.

A midlayer should be made of 100% polyester to ensure the moisture transport continues through the garment. However, for elite athletes about to compete or do tough interval training it’s usually sufficient with only a thin suit (or light jacket and tights) outside the baselayer.

Outerwear should be a thin jacket and smooth pants or tights. There are several great jackets and pants that feature wind-resistant fabric on the front and elastic, breathable fabric at the back. As a result, the front protects against the cold wind while the back ventilates excess heat and transports moisture from the inner layer.

Moisture-transporting hat and gloves to regulate the heat and transport sweat from the head and hands, your hat and gloves should have a base of polyester. If it’s really cold, you can wear two hats and two layer of gloves – one layer of polyester closest to the skin and a thicker layer on the outside. Hats with a blend of wool and polyester make a great choice in cold conditions.