Going up to NH the end of January for a weekend of ski/snowboarding and tubing.And of course l own no outdoor apparel! Not looking to spend my life savings..Just curious as to what type of pants and Jackets l will need and what l should avoid...thanks a lot!!

For the first time skier or snowboarder:

A lot of people think they need to buy everything to have a good time on the hill. The truth is that u probably already have everything u need. You just need to pack it.

Although l have upgraded to proper snow gear, l think that novices should go with the minimum on their first time. This is to prevent over spending on a sport they might eventually not end up enjoying. The next time u go u can then customize the experience exactly how u want; thus, smart shopping. As l said, u probably already have the minimum.

The minimum is:
1) Sunglasses (~$20)
Cover ur eyes with 100 percent UV block lenses. The sun will be reflected off of the snow & vision is paramount. Ski goggles r good, but u do not need to shell out $30-100+ dollars. l do not like the way goggles feel & l still use sunglasses.

2) Water resistant gloves (~$30)
Since you're new u will probably fall down a lot. Wet hands get cold fast.

3) Water resistant jacket (~$20)
You can use jackets such as wind breakers or even sports jackets. This does not have to be heavy.

4) Water resistant pants (~$30)
Acrylic jogging pants will work fine. Just like the jacket, ur outer layer acts as a water resistant.

5) Beanie (~$15)
Something warm to cover ur head. 70 percent of body heat is lost through uncovered heads.

6) Socks (~$14, ski socks) ($20 wool socks, optional)
People think the thicker ur socks the warmer it is. But actually u want knee high thin socks so that the entire boot warms up. Do not double layer ur socks because there is a chance of it rubbing against ur skin. But when you're not skiing, wool socks r the best thing ever!!

7) Layers (thermals ~$20) (layers r free)
Thermals r great, but if u do not have them then just layer it on. And the more layers, the less it hurts when u fall (I've tried this).

8) Scarf (~$15)
Something to cover ur neck such as a scarf or high neck fleece to cover ur neck.

10) Proper equipment. (~$30 a day for rentals)
The most important part r ur boots. A good boot fitter will always save the day. Make sure they know what they're doing.

11) Sun tan lotion (~$8)
Where the sun can effect ur vision, it can also effect ur skin. Ever wonder why so many skiers r tan?

12) Chap Stick (~$3)
Your lips will eventually get chapped from the cold. Use chap stick so ur lips do not flake off.

13) Optional: A light water resistant backpack, walkie talkies, camera, ski helmet, face mask


In the end u will probably pay less than $225 for minimum gear. You can always ask ur friends who r not skiing to borrow their gear too.

All being said, u might be wondering about style. Nobody really cares. Skiers have the same mantra as surfers. Everyone is really nice & do not care how u look. As long as you're safe, courteous, & have a good time nobody will care how u look. If you're face is buried in the snow u will always look like a doofus. Shred up the mountain & u will look like a hero. Have fun!

l am just gonna make it simple,lol

A fleece sweater or sweatshirt
Under Armor, doesnt have to be the expensive kind from sporting goods, u can buy them at Walmart for $15 or less
Snow Pants, u can buy at any ski shop or sporting good store, most r under $100
A good Snowboarding jacket which is pretty expensive, costing above $100
Sunglasses, which r real cheap, or buy goggles for around $40 ish dollars from a sporting good store
Helmet around 40 dollars, & under
Gloves, u can get them anywhere for a cheap price
Lip baulm, few dollars, get them anywhere
Scarf, not really necessary, but good to have
Thats pretty much it

GOOD LUCK