A first-time skier recently posed the question: What, really, do I need to wear? Our collective response—a flurry of gear-centric phrases, a laundry list of specially treated fabrics and technologies, testimonies on the righteous practice of smart layering—led us to one central truth: Dressing for downhill skiing can be a true conundrum.

To simplify the equation, we've rallied the troops, put the gear to the test, and report back with a profile of the best in ski apparel based on the four main ski regions of the United States. As the 20-foot dump in Tahoe recently reminded us, however, no one condition reigns supreme in a particular region. But we're confident that prowling this list will lead you unto a new world of slope-side comfort, performance, and pleasure.

After all, the warmer and drier you are, the longer you ski.

The East Coast: Ice, Ice, Baby
For Him
For Her

The Rocky Mountains: Mmmmmmmm, Powder
For Him
For Her

The West Coast: The Spring Fling
For Him
For Her

Alaska and Beyond: Welcome to the Real Winter
For Him
For Her

PLUS
Ski Gear for the 21st Century
Helmets with speakers, mp3 players tailor made for the piste, jackets that light up, cameras that pose you in the next ski porn flick, and more.

All You Can't Leave Behind
The latest and greatest ways to carry your skis, poles, boots, helmets…and damn near everything else.