The Alpine gear guide
Everything you need to hit the slopes while keeping warm, staying safe and looking cool…
- Words: Harry Jarman
The 2026 season is set to be one of the best on record, with high snowfall predicted across the Alps. The season also sees a number of incredible hotel openings in many of the key resorts, so frankly there’s no reason to stay off the slopes.
Choosing which equipment to invest in can be daunting, however. Thankfully the Gentleman’s Journal team, with help from some very experienced skiers, have put together the ultimate alpine gear guide for you…
A ski touring jacket designed for mobility and breathability. The front is weatherproof softshell; the back is highly breathable, stretchy double weave. Safety features include a helmet-compatible hood and a RECCO Rescue System Reflector.
The Nylon fabric is both durable and breathable and is critical seam-sealed for protection. Two-way zippers in the leg endings have integrated snow gaiters and allow you to quickly switch to walking mode.
Tracksmith
Brighton Base Layer
£100
Looking for a base layer to stand the test of time? Try engineered Merino mesh: a soft, moisture-wicking blend that regulates temperature and is virtually impervious to odour.
Salomon
S/Pro Supra Dual BOA 120 boots
£570
These offer revolutionary micro-adjustable sensitivity. With two BOA dials, they also deliver a customised fit.
Patagonia
Daily Snap-T pullover
£150
The OG of pullovers, made with 100% Regenerative Organic Certified fabric that’s exceptionally soft on the skin.
Aubin
Denby hat
£35
The Denby beanie is the perfect hat from brand of the moment, Aubin. They’re made in Scotland by Robert Mackie, who were established in 1845.
Black Diamond
Guide gloves
£160
These guide gloves offer optimal balance of dexterity, durability and insulation for hard duty on super-cold days.
Head
Worldcup Rebels e-Race EVO 14
£650
The e-Race from HEAD brings authentic race feeling to the slopes – without the compromises of a FIS model. Designed for medium-radius turns, it impresses with remarkable versatility: whether short, dynamic turns or wide carving arcs – this ski handles it all with ease.
“For the skier who carves with conviction — race-bred performance without the FIS rulebook.”
Falke
SK5 Expert Men skiing knee-high socks
POA
These boast a moisture-wicking three-layer construction to keep feet dry and blister-free.
Vallon
Heron Glacier sunglasses
£116
Equipped with mirrored Cat. 4 lenses and genuine leather side shields, these offer maximum alpine protection and remain the go-to choice for record-breaking mountaineers and ski tourers. They also look damm good.
Napapijri
Arver ski jacket
£400
Perfect for those more relaxed days on the slopes, offering wind protection while maintaining breathability. Also uses Recco technology to help tracking in case of avalanches.
Black Diamond
Jetforce Pro 10L avalanche airbag pack
£848
Small and light, with multiple deployments and automatic deflation. It also has room for everything you need on the slopes.
Klattermusen
Skirner jacket
£383
The perfect shell jacket. Made from bio-based polyamide in a tough three-layer construction, it offers complete waterproofing with taped seams and reinforcements on the shoulders.
Apple
Apple Watch Ultra 3
£749
The king of the adventure smart watch, the Ultra 3 offers a whole host of functions which are useful on the slopes, not to mention Emergency SOS in case you get into trouble.
66 North
Vik Windpro gloves
£55
Made from Polartec Wind Pro stretch fabric, these are great for warmer days on the piste — and you can use your phone without having to take them off.
“For warmer days on the piste when you want freedom of movement — and the ability to check your phone without breaking stride.”
Giro
Tor Spherical helmet
£299
Mammut
Sender IN hybrid jacket
£185
This versatile layer works under a hardshell or as a standalone. Its synthetic fill is made from recycled rope offcuts; outer fabric is made from recycled wind-repellent fabric.
Oakley
Line Miner Pro M Snow Goggles
£317
These offer a 20% wider view than most snow goggles, and come with extra lenses for different light conditions.
Canada Goose
Alberni reversible fleece bomber
£724
We love this reversible fleece from Canada Goose: perfect for keeping warm and looking great.
And once your kit is dialled in, be sure to read more in The ski chalets you should be renting this season, because where you recover matters almost as much as how you ski.
