How to Dress a Child for Snowboarding

By Elizabeth McGuire

When you hit the slopes with children, it's imperative that you dress them mindfully. Kids generally have less insulating fat than adults, and they don't always say when they are getting cold. A warm, comfortable and dry kid means you'll spend more time on the slopes than the sofa.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step 1

Dress your child in several thin layers that can be removed if necessary.

Step 2

From the inside out: Start with polypropylene long underwear (a top and pants). These are soft on the skin, dry quickly and wick away sweat.

Step 3

Use one pair of wicking socks. Ignore the old fad of wearing two socks at once. They can easily wrinkle inside boots. Bring an extra pair of socks and leave in a locker.

Step 4

Your child should wear a turtleneck shirt and, depending on the weather conditions, a thin sweater, fleece jacket or fleece vest.

Step 5

Use waterproof pants or bibs that fit snugly over the boots. If the pants aren't insulated, you may need another layer of tights underneath.

Step 6

Consider a waterproof jacket. Look for one with wind flaps to shield zippers, adjustable cuffs at the wrists, and collars that can be turned up to contain body heat and repel the elements.

Step 7

Get waterproof gloves or mittens. The younger the child, the more likely you should buy mittens versus gloves. Look for some that have snug cuffs to keep the snow out.

Step 8

Wrist guards protect kids from the most common beginner-snowboarder injury. Inline skating wristguards will work if they fit over the mittens/gloves. You can also buy snowboard-specific wristguards or gloves with built-in guards.

Step 9

Snowboard knee pads are usually worn between layers or clothing and can help soften the blow from the tumbles that plague beginner boarders.

Step 10

Boots should have plenty of adjustments and be easy for you to put on your child's foot. Visit a reputable ski shop or rental store and ask their experts for help in selecting boots.

Step 11

Give your child sunglasses or goggles. Even on a cloudy day, kids need these to avoid damaging their eyes. On a snowy day, goggles will keep them headed in the right direction.

Step 12

Helmets are practically the norm these days and they are a great choice for both safety and warmth. If your child doesn't wear a helmet, put a hat on her.

Step 13

Make sure everyone wears sunscreen. Cover up before you hit the lift and also at lunchtime, no matter what the conditions are like.

Tips & Warnings

On especially cold days, a neck gaiter and a face mask will trap warm air and keep your child warm.

Avoid loose or dangling clothing such as long scarves. Put long hair in a pony tail or tucked under a hat.

About The Author

Elizabeth McGuire is a freelance writer with a background in journalism and marketing. She has been writing about recreation and fitness for more than 10 years.

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