Heading to the mountains this winter? Here's how to build the perfect wardrobe
When you head to the mountains for a winter break, hurtling down snow-covered hills is only part of the fun. For a lot of people, it’s what comes afterwards that’s the main event. Après is a long-standing alpine tradition that involves rewarding yourself for a day of skiing or snowboarding by hitting the bar, stuffing yourself with assorted types of melted cheese and perhaps even dancing on a table or two. But what to wear for such an occasion? Thankfully, après ski clothing is surprisingly simple to nail.
At its core, dressing for après is about balancing warmth, comfort and style. You might find yourself standing around on a snowy terrace, partying at a mountainside bar or lounging around in a wood-panneled restaurant. What you need is an outfit that can cover all of these bases, and below you’ll find the garments you need to nail the brief.
Table of Contents
- Heading to the mountains this winter? Here's how to build the perfect wardrobe
- What is après ski clothing?
- 10 Key pieces of après ski clothing for men
What is après ski clothing?
Après ski clothing is the carefully curated wardrobe that takes you from carving down slopes to kicking back in style. It's the gear you wear once the skis are off, designed to keep you warm, comfortable, and suitably dressed for post-piste activities – whether that’s enjoying a fireside drink, wandering through a snowy mountain village, or dancing in a lively alpine bar.
The best après ski outfits strike a balance between practicality and style. Think layers that provide insulation without looking overly technical: cosy knitwear, versatile outerwear, and sturdy boots with good grip for icy pathways. Colours and textures often lean into a winter aesthetic – rich tones, neutral palettes, and tactile materials like wool, fleece, and down.
It’s not just about keeping the chill at bay; après ski clothing also reflects the relaxed, social spirit of the mountains, blending functionality with a touch of laid-back sophistication.
10 Key pieces of après ski clothing for men
Snow boots
You might be able to tolerate a drink or two in ski boots at the end of a long day shredding powder, but let’s face it, they’re not exactly comfortable, nor are they built for battling icy pavements after copious amounts of alcohol.
If you’re heading out for the evening, chances are you’re going to want something a little more foot-friendly to slip into, but not at the expense of warmth. What you need is something waterproof, warm and grippy that doesn’t look out of place with your cold-weather clobber. Think retro hikers, fleece-lined duck boots or even just a solid pair of Goodyear-welted work boots.
Puffer jacket
Insulation is key when you’re sitting on a bar terrace 5,000 metres above sea level swilling rosé wine for several hours. Your unlined ski jacket might be sufficient when you’re working up a sweat, but you’ll soon feel the chill when you stop moving and start drinking instead.
The puffer jacket is a bona fide après essential, keeping alpine revellers warm for decades. Brands like Moncler and Colmar have built entire identities around the concept, but there are plenty of other options too. Look for something that balances warmth and style – we’re talking big burly baffles, a nice versatile fit and enough room to get a layer or two underneath when needed.
Parka
For those who prefer classic over sporty, a parka is an après ski heavy-hitter. Its longline silhouette provides extra coverage, while insulated padding keeps the cold at bay. It’s the perfect piece for a post-ski wander through the village or for standing in an hour-long queue to get an Aperol Spritz from the Folie Deuce bar.
Look for details like a faux-fur hood trim, multiple pockets, and durable, water-resistant fabrics. Brands like Canada Goose, Woolrich, or Scandinavian stalwarts such as Fjällräven offer options that are as timeless as they are toasty.
Chunky knit
A chunky knit jumper is the unsung hero of the après ski wardrobe. It’s what you throw on when you’re ready to swap speed for socialising, and it provides the kind of comforting warmth that a pint of lager or a hot toddy simply can’t match.
Look for heavyweight knits made from wool or cashmere blends, with patterns that channel that alpine aesthetic – think Fair Isle or Nordic-inspired designs. Wear it on its own or layered over a thermal for those particularly chilly evenings. Either way, it’s a staple that’s as practical as it is stylish.
Waterproof shell
Between melting snow, spilled drinks, and the occasional outdoor seating arrangement, après ski evenings can be surprisingly wet. A lightweight waterproof shell is an underrated addition to your kit, offering protection from the elements without adding bulk.
Go for something with taped seams and a breathable membrane to keep you dry without overheating. Opt for clean, understated designs in neutral colours – it should look as at home in a mountain bar as it does on the slopes. Pair it with a fleece or knit underneath for a functional yet refined layering combo.
Fleece jacket
The fleece jacket is a quintessential après ski layer, striking the perfect balance between laid-back comfort and practicality. Once relegated to the hiking trails, it’s now a style staple, especially in retro-inspired cuts and bold colour-block designs.
Look for a midweight fleece that offers warmth without the bulk – half-zips, full-zips, or even pullover styles all work. Bonus points if it has details like chest pockets or contrast panels. Layer it under a shell for extra protection or wear it solo when you’re indoors. Think Patagonia, Arc’teryx, or even vintage finds.
Beanie
No après ski outfit is complete without a beanie to cap it off – quite literally. It’s not just for keeping your head warm; it’s also a way to inject a little personality into your look after the helmet comes off.
Ribbed knits, cuffed designs, or retro pom-poms – all are fair game here. Opt for soft, non-itchy fabrics like merino wool or cashmere blends to avoid sacrificing comfort. Earthy tones and primary colours are always safe bets, though a bold pattern can add a touch of après ski playfulness.
Sunglasses
Even when the sun dips below the mountains, sunglasses are an après ski must. The snow reflects light like a mirror, and the last thing you want is to be squinting your way through a leisurely round of drinks.
A pair of oversized, slightly retro frames is the way to go – think aviators or tortoiseshell wayfarers for a timeless touch. Polarised lenses are a non-negotiable for cutting glare, and a subtle tint gives that laid-back, off-duty vibe.
Gloves
Don’t underestimate the importance of a good pair of gloves in your après ski lineup. From holding frosty glasses to navigating icy pathways, cold hands can quickly ruin the fun.
Look for gloves that balance warmth with dexterity – leather pairs lined with cashmere are a failsafe option, offering practicality without skimping on style. If you’re going for a more technical look, insulated ski gloves in neutral tones can double as both slope and streetwear essentials.
Jeans
While ski trousers dominate the slopes, jeans take the stage when it’s time to relax post-piste. The trick is to find a pair that balances comfort with durability – après ski is no place for paper-thin denim. Instead, opt for heavyweight or selvedge styles that can handle a bit of wear and tear while keeping you insulated against the evening chill.
Dark washes are ideal for their versatility, pairing effortlessly with chunky knits, puffer jackets, or even fleece-lined boots. Avoid distressed styles or overly slim fits – après ski is about comfort and understated style, and who wants holes in their legwear when it’s sub zero outside?
Next up: The best ski clothing brands for men.
