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Being cold and wet on the slopes will ruin your day faster than you can say, “I wish we went to the beach.” Weather conditions change rapidly in the mountains, and wearing the right clothing will not only ensure your comfort, but also the safety of your 10 fingers and toes. Putting some planning into the layers that you wear under your snow clothing will go a long way towards making sure you enjoy every moment of your next snowy adventure.

A layering system is typically made up of 3 elements:

Base Layer: This is the layer that’s in direct contact with your skin.

The purpose of your baselayer is not only to keep you warm, but also to transport moisture away from your body. It might be freezing outside, but you still sweat when you are on the hill, and having wet clothing against your body will be a guaranteed day-ender. Polypro baselayers are a great budget choice and gone are the days of one wear wonders – you can get various weights with plain and printed options.  These all retain warmth when they are wet and wick moisture away from the skin. Merino wool is the king of baselayer fabrics, and though more expensive, is well worth the investment if you will be making several trips to the snow fields this winter. Merino does come in various weights and options but might not be suited for those who react to natural fibres against the skin.

Mid Layer: The mid layer is where you have the most flexibility to adjust to the weather conditions and your own personal thermostat.

Too cold? Add another mid-layer. Too hot? Take it off and put it in your pack. The mid layer is there to provide warmth via insulation, and to continue the job of moving moisture away from your body to the outside of your clothing where it can evaporate. Synthetic fleeces are great mid-layers, as they are lightweight, retain warmth when wet, and are quick to dry. Soft shells and lightweight puffer jackets are also a great option if you tend to feel the cold. If you find you only need the extra warmth on your body core, then a sleeveless vest is also a fantastic option.

Outerwear: This is the barrier between you and the elements, and will ensure you remain warm and dry all day long.

You will need a jacket and pants that are tough wearing and waterproof. There are 2 main options when it comes to outerwear styles: Shell or Insulated. A shell jacket is a thin, lightweight, waterproof outer layer, that is highly breathable, and designed for movement and flexibility. You control your warmth with the layers you wear under a shell jacket, so make sure to chose one that is roomy enough to accommodate your base layer and a mid layer. An insulated jacket will be a little bulkier, but that is because they have a heat-trapping loft built in between the outer shell and the lining. Insulated jackets and pants are a great option if you tend to feel the cold, or alternatively if you prefer to wear light base layers, and control all of your heat with your outerwear.

So you’re all set to head away for snowy adventures in Australia, New Zealand, Japan or somewhere else on this white crystal plant! Whether you’re with the family, a group of friends, or solo day-tripping, there is nothing quite like the freedom of sliding down a mountain to forget your worries. But worries should be the only thing you forget on your next snow holiday.

We’ve put together a quick checklist to help you out with the logistics of packing for your next trip to the snow:

• Have you checked the weather?
  If you know there will cold or snowy weather it will be important to pack more options when it comes to layering up and keeping warm.  You should always think about additional items to take such as base layers, neckwarmers,goggles, gloves and glove liners  
  
  Tip: Always take a spare set of gloves and liners if the forecast calls for snow.

• Have you pre-booked your tickets?
  It’s generally always cheaper to buy your lift tickets ahead of time, and it will save you the hassle of standing in line when all you want to do is hit the slopes!
  
  Tip: Each mountain website will have details of special deals. Packages are the way to go for best value plus snow lessons as well. 

• How are you getting there?
  Driving your own car or taking public transport? Both will require road-trip snacks and epic playlists. Plan ahead. Check that your car has antifreeze coolant, and make sure that you are carrying chains
  
  Tip: Audiobooks or podcasts are a great way to pass the time on long drives.

• Is your equipment ready?
  If you are taking your own equipment rather than hiring it on the mountain, have a quick look over your skis, board, bindings and boots before you leave home to make sure that everything is in working order. Nothing is worse than a broken lace on your snowboard boots the first time you put them on for the season!
  
  Tip: It’s always worth putting your skis and boards in for a wax and tune after a long hot summer of storage.

• What are you going to wear?
  This is where it pays to plan ahead. As a bare minimum you are going to need:
  
  - Base Layer (longjohns or leggings and a longsleeve top)
  - Mid Layer (fleece, jumper, or a thin insulated jacket)
  - Outerwear (waterproof jacket and pants)
  - Ski Socks, Gloves, Goggles, Hat, Helmet, Neckwarmer or Balaclava. 
  
  You will also need clothes for travelling and to wear after skiing, and snow boots for walking around on the snow.
  
  Tip: It always pays to take more than you think, especially if you’re travelling with the kids. You’ll always need a spare set of dry gloves and socks.

• Have you packed the sunscreen?  
  Just because you're going to a cold environment doesn't mean the sun is any less fierce. Always make sure you have sunscreen and lip balm in your jackert pocket even in the coldest of locations, as the UV radiation bounces off the reflective white snow in all directions. Also it pays to drink plenty of water to keep well hydrated, as your body struggles to maintain a toasty warm temperature when it is dehydrated.
  
  Tip: Don’t eat yellow snow!

• Have you packed your smile?
  No matter what the conditions are like it’s always a good time in the mountains! With a bit of forward planning, any forgotten gear and broken equipment headaches can be easily avoided, and you can focus on the more important things, like when to stop for your first hot chocolate of the day!

This snow trip checklist has been written by all-round snow enthusiast Tori Beattie.  Tori is based in the beautiful Wanaka in New Zealand and has been skiing all around the world for the last 15 years.

Well I could name almost all the skiers I compete against in the Southern Hemisphere, not very popular to say the least.

Whenever I’m asked about what sport I do, people give me a look of confusion. Growing up in a country with some of the worlds best swimmers, surfers and footballers, why would I pick a sport where Australia hardly credits it?

Born and raised in Australia I grew up playing footy with my dad, horse riding with my mum and cross-country skiing? We did it as a family!

My parents were dual Olympians for Australia in Biathlon – cross-country skiing and shooting. Despite my parents once being the elite of the elite there was never any pressure, I just loved it and it was always for fun!

Now that I’m almost at the top of XC skiing in Australia should my attitude change? I wouldn’t still be here if it wasn’t fun.

– AS TOLD TO ANDREA ROGNSTRAND

3 easy steps to staying toasty on the slopes.

Nothing can ruin a day at the snow quicker then being cold and wet. The weather on a mountain can change drastically and very quickly so wearing the right gear will not only ensure your comfort, but also the safety of your 10 fingers and toes.

The trick comes down to a solid layering system! Not many people realise that what you wear under your outerwear will go a long way towards making sure you enjoy every moment of your winter escape.

A layering system is typically made up of 3 layers. A base layer, mid layer and outerwear.

Base Layer: The first layer you put on.

The purpose of a base layer is not only to keep you warm, but also to draw moisture away from your body. It might be freezing outside, but you still sweat when you are on the slopes because you’re being active and having wet clothing against your body will be a guaranteed day-ender. Polypro base layers are a great product at an affordable price and you can usually find a range of fun prints in this type of base layer.  Merino wool is hailed as the king of the base layer fabrics, and although it’s more expensive, it’s well worth the investment if you plan on having a few snow trips. Merino comes in several options but might not be suited for those who react to the natural fibres against the skin. 

Mid Layer: The layer which offers the most flexibility to adjust to the weather conditions and your own personal thermostat.

Too cold? Add another mid-layer. Too hot? Take it off and put it in your backpack. The mid layer is there to provide warmth via insulation, and to continue the job of moving moisture away from your body to the outside of your clothing where it can evaporate. Synthetic fleeces are great mid-layers as they’re lightweight, retain warmth when wet and are quick to dry. Soft shells and lightweight puffer jackets are also great options if you tend to feel the cold. If you find you only need the extra warmth on your body core, then a sleeveless vest is also a good pick. 

Outerwear: This is the barrier between you and the elements, and will ensure you remain warm and dry all day long.

You will need a jacket and pants that are tough wearing and waterproof. There are 2 main options when it comes to outerwear styles: Shell or Insulated. A shell jacket is a thin, lightweight, waterproof outer layer, that is highly breathable, and designed for movement and flexibility. You control your warmth with the layers you wear under a shell jacket, so make sure to choose one that is roomy enough to accommodate your base and a mid-layer. An insulated jacket will be bulkier, but that’s because they have a heat-trapping loft built in between the outer shell and the lining. Insulated jackets and pants are a great option if you feel the cold, or alternatively if you prefer to wear light base layers and control all your heat with your outerwear.

First time at the snow blog 

We’ve been making our way to the Australian resorts for over 30 years and we’d like to think we know a thing or two about planning snow trips.

So if you’re thinking about heading to the mountains for the first time then we’ve got these 3 tips for you!

1. Before you leave, get the right gear!
You don’t have to spend your whole paycheque when you’re heading to the snow for the first time, especially when you want to make sure you’re investing in something you enjoy!

So, it’s best to try before you buy.

You can rent the big-ticket items like equipment and outerwear when you get to the resort but there will be some things you’ll need to take. Be sure to come prepared by bringing a good quality base layer set and another warm layer like a microfleece. The trick to staying warm and dry all day comes down to how you layer.

You’ll also need to get yourself some good quality socks, gloves or mitts, goggles, neck warmers and a beanie. You can print out the handy checklist we’ve made so you don’t forget anything!

If you’re just heading up for a day trip it’s a great idea to pack a spare outfit for the drive home so you don’t have to sit in cold and wet clothes.

2. Getting to the resort
Depending on which resort you’re heading to it’s important that you’ve done your research. Make sure you know the best route, whether the roads will be clear and if not, which way you should take. Bring chains for your tyres, especially if you’re staying overnight.

Be sure to check what extra costs there might be, such as resort entry fees or transport from the carpark if you’re staying overnight, it’s always handy to carry cash in your purse for these situations.

3. Once you’re there
If you’re up for the day make sure you rent yourself a locker, so you don’t have to lug around a backpack full of gear you won’t need until the end of the day. Otherwise keep the non-essentials in your accommodation.

The most important thing you can do on your first snow trip is book yourself a lesson!

Whether your skiing or snowboarding it’s important that you learn the basics from someone who is experienced and can guide you through the steps. Most resorts offer a lift ticket package for first timers where the ticket price includes a lesson. Plus, the instructors will give you the confidence you need when it comes to loading and unloading chairlifts for the first time.

Checklist for the perfect snow trip:

Before you leave make sure you have:
A warm jacket to wear around the resort
Base layer set – merino or poly-spandex blend
A warm mid layer – like a microfleece or a thick jumper
Ski socks – bring extra in case your feet get wet
Beanies
Neck warmer or neck tube – bring a spare one so you can layer up or replace a wet one
Mitts or gloves – bring a spare set in case your hands get soaked
Goggles
Sunglasses
Sturdy boots with a tough grip sole
A lip balm with SPF
Sunscreen – just because it’s winter it doesn’t mean you can’t get sunburnt!

For the car:
Healthy snacks – for the trip and also for your jacket pocket
Plenty of water – it’s easy to get dehydrated in the mountains with the altitude!
Cash – nearly everywhere has EFTPOS but you may need some cash on hand to cover any transportation costs once you’re in the resort
Chains for your tyres
A shovel – if there’s snow on the forecast you might need to dig out your tyres before you leave
A spare change of clothes for the trip home

At the resort:
Make sure you keep your lift pass in a separate pocket to your bank card – the ticket scanners won’t be able to register your pass and you’ll get held up at the gate, so keep them separate!
Put a note in your phone on where you parked – on busy days the carparks get jampacked, so avoid getting confused by noting down the carpark name
Apply that sunscreen you packed!

We’re excited to announce that for another year we’re continuing our support for B4BC a non-profit foundation that advocates early detection and a healthy, active and sustainable lifestyle as the best means for breast cancer prevention.

B4BC aims to eliminate breast cancer deaths in present and future generations by arming young people with the tools necessary to reduce their risks and lead longer, healthier, and more sustainable lives.

This is a foundation we really believe in and know that they are making a positive t impact in the snow community and that’s why we support them.

Last year we created a special range of outerwear, base layers and accessories for b4bc with a percentage of sales going to supporting the organisation.

We were blown away with the response, this range was so popular, we completely sold out of the jacket!

This winter the bestselling Aster jacket is back and better then ever because it’s now available in two different styles with both featuring the amazing Misty Peaks print.

The gorgeous purple and blue hues in the print are contrasted elegantly against the black and white shades. When you look closely you’ll notice the finer details of the highlands we love so much with hints of mountain skies, falling flakes and snow-covered tree tops.

The full print jacket is sure to be a stand out in any crowd and the print colour blocked against black is for the subtle Rojo woman.

We simply can’t choose which version we love more, but we do know that both will get you noticed on and off the hill.

Our new b4bc base layer print is designed as the sister to the Aster jacket print. Stars and Stripes will complement the colourways and patters of the Misty Peaks print. Once you put these beauties on you’re guaranteed to feel stunning!

Keep your eyes peeled across our range because you’ll see splashes of these prints in our gloves, mitts, goggles and neck warmers.

- Rojo xx