Skiing is one of the most popular winter sports and is a favorite among both amateur and professional skiers alike. While the appeal of the snow is undeniable, the rigors of the sport can take a toll on your hands and gloves, and not in a good way.
Even the most experienced skiers can become weary of the stench that comes with skiing. After all, when you’re skiing down a mountain, the last thing you want to do is smell like an oily rag.
Some skiers choose to go without gloves altogether, but that can leave your hands vulnerable to frostbite. Others choose to use chemical-laden gloves to ward off any such threat, but that can leave your hands even more vulnerable to infections. Still, others choose to clean their gloves regularly, but that can become tricky when the ski season is at its peak.
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The Double Duty Ski Jacket
If you play sports in winter, you know the double duty ski jacket. Most commonly seen on the slopes of Northern Europe, the double duty jacket allows you to layer snow- and water-proof garments and keep your extremities toasty and warm. It can also double as an environmental friendly choice, made from recycled materials and sweat-wicking fabrics. So named because it was originally designed for use in double-digit snowflake conditions, this classic jacket has become a winter sport symbol.
The design is so commonplace that it has become impossible to avoid. The double duty jacket has evolved over the years, with some brands creating entirely new models for the 2017 season. One of the most popular and versatile brands is Montbello.
The Water Repellent (DWR) Coat
Water Repellent (DWR) Coats are the gold standard in the ski world when it comes to waterproofing. Most commonly used on the feet and ankles, the DWR coating can withstand light rain or snow showers, making it perfect for those occasional downpours that turn into a light drizzle. But more often than not, the thin layer of water vapor that forms on your clothing when it gets wet is enough to keep you well-drenched. Despite their obvious advantages, DWR coats are not without their problems. The most common complaint about these items is that they leave a sticky, gloopy residue on your skin. Also, many people find that the boots and skis they use with DWR coats have a shorter lifespan than those used with other types of waterproofing.
Antichlösung Chemisch
Antichlösung Chemisch is the German acronym for Antifreeze Chemical. This substance is most often found in antifreeze solutions and is responsible for preventing your vehicle’s engine from freezing up in winter. The same goes for your body, which also needs some help staying cool in the winter. This substance has the unfortunate effect of making your body fluids extremely viscous, which can lead to serious health problems. Nevertheless, antichlösung Chemisch has several advantages. For one, it significantly reduces the effects of frostbite, making it a practical choice for skiers and ski instructors. Also, antichlösung Chemisch has a cooling effect, so it can help you avoid overheating even while skiing.
Vapourizer
While we’ve talked about the positive aspects of different types of winter gear, we cannot leave out the disadvantages. One of the most noticeable and pungent ones, in particular, is associated with ski gloves. Vapourizers are solutions for expelling body heat, most often used by law enforcement and military personnel. They have a pleasant, citrusy aroma and are available both in liquid and gelling forms. In liquid form, they are easy to use and inexpensive, but the gel variety is more effective and flexible, with more uniform texture. It is important to note that the gel version of the vapourizer has the potential to leave a sticky, gloopy residue on your gloves and other cold-weather gear. Also, many vapourizers are simply not approved for wear by children or those with a sensitive skin or breathing difficulties. So, while we embrace the positive aspects of chemical hand cleaners, we also have to acknowledge that there is a downside to this particular choice. If you play sports in winter, you need to think about what is the best choice for your needs and the nature of your activities.