Ski Season 2025: Must-Have Gear from REI for Your Best Winter Yet
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When it comes to hitting the slopes, comfort, protection, and smart layering make all the difference. Whether you’re skiing fresh powder or carving packed runs, having gear that performs under pressure is key. REI’s 2025 lineup includes standout pieces that combine function, style, and durability. Here are seven top-rated picks to consider before you book your next ski trip.
🧢 1. REI Co‑op Lightweight Logo Beanie
A reliable beanie is a basic but vital layer. This lightweight knit cap delivers soft, breathable warmth beneath your helmet or for après-ski downtime. Its stretch fit and comfort make it a great year-round winter staple.
Why it works: It’s an easy addition to your ski kit — affordable, low bulk, and perfect for layering. Great for ski-goers who dislike bulky headgear.
🧶 2. Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Crew Base Layer Top
This merino wool base layer is a crowd favorite for a reason. It wicks moisture, regulates temperature, and resists odor — ideal whether you’re making a steep ascent or lounging at the lodge post-run.
Why it works: Merino remains one of the better materials for base layers thanks to its warmth and breathability. It aligns with REI’s recommended layering system.
🧥 3. The North Face ThermoBall Eco Snow Triclimate 3‑in‑1 Jacket
A 3-in-1 jacket offers flexibility; this one features a waterproof shell and an insulated liner you can zip together or wear separately depending on conditions. Its ECO insulation and DryVent shell make it a sustainable, high-performance option.
Why it works: You get multiple seasonal uses in one jacket. Perfect for variable mountain weather — layer up or strip down as needed.
❄️ 4. The North Face Freedom Pants
Waterproof, durable, and built for the mountain, these pants use DryVent 2L fabric and reinforced kickpatches. They also include gaiters to prevent snow ingress — a welcome feature when getting off the groomers.
Why it works: Strong outer gear — if your jacket is solid, you need pants that reliably keep snow and wind out during aggressive turns or deep powder.
👖 5. Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Bottoms
Pairing your merino top with matching bottoms ensures top-to-bottom thermal regulation. These base bottoms are designed to support your layering strategy without feeling restrictive.
Why it works: Adds comfort and performance — essential for long ski days and those cold chairlift rides.
🕶 6. Smith I/O MAG Snow Goggles with ChromaPop Lens
Your visibility is key. These goggles feature Smith’s ChromaPop lens tech for enhanced contrast on snow and a magnetic lens-change system for quick adaptation. REI’s gear guides list these among top snow goggle picks.
Why it works: Variable light conditions demand adaptive optics. These goggles make swapping lenses effortless and help you see terrain changes faster.
🔥 7. Ignik Hand Warmers Multipack
Cold hands can ruin a ski day. These biodegradable, long-lasting hand warmers offer up to 10 hours of heat and can be resealed for multi-use. Their eco-conscious design also aligns with sustainability trends in gear.
Why it works: Simple, effective gear that solves a frequent nuisance — especially on chairlifts or for snowshoers.
🧩 2025 Ski Gear Buying Tips & Trends
- Layer smart, not bulky. Use lightweight base, mid, and shell-layer systems — as recommended by REI’s “what to wear skiing” guide.
- Modularity is key. 3-in-1 jackets give more flexibility and value across changing conditions.
- Eco-conscious features matter. Recycled materials and biodegradable tech (like Ignik) resonate more with consumers each year.
- Choose gear for real usage. Reinforcements, adjustable ventilation, and lens-swapping tools often make heavier-impact differences in the field.
- Don’t skip accessories. A good beanie, hand warmers, or quality goggles often elevate the day more than the flashiest skis.
For 2025, REI’s ski gear lineup truly blends technical performance with everyday practicality. These picks — from merino base layers to modular outerwear and smart accessories — form a robust kit that suits a variety of skiers. Use them as your foundation, and then customize based on your terrain, style, and climate.
