For some skiers - especially those on vacation - the mountain experience doesn't end with the last ski run. In many resort towns, once the lifts close, another world emerges: the aprés-ski scene. In towns like Park City, Utah or Aspen, Colorado, restaurants, bars, lounges and clubs come alive with everyone from tourists to locals, ski instructors to lift operators. In order to rock the aprés-ski scene, though, you can't always wear your ski clothing. Review this list of aprés-ski essentials and accessories to prepare for your next aprés-ski experience.
Burton Beanie Hat
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Because you should always wear your helmet on the mountain, a hat really has only one place: the aprés-ski scene. A beanie is a chic way to accessorize while also staying warm, as it has an urban edge sure to spice up your outfit. It'll keep your head and ears warm on the walk over, but it looks casual and cool enough to keep on once you reach your destination.
Best bets include the women's Big Bertha beanie or the men's All Day Long beanie.
Chunky Knit Scarf
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A chunky knit scarf is a winter wardrobe essential. Throw it on to run errands; wear it to doll up a long-sleeve t; grab it to keep your neck warm while you carrying your skis to the lodge; pull it on for aprés-ski. There are tons of ways to wear this one scarf, and it is fashionable enough that you can even choose to leave it on once you've braved the cold, and made it inside.
Dale of Norway Sweater
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Dale of Norway makes classic alpine sweaters for men and women. Dale sweaters are surprisingly warm enough, and even wind-proof enough, to wear under your ski jacket, yet also refined enough to wear to a nice dinner out. While a Dale of Norway sweater is a considerable investment, Dale sweaters are also renowned for their durability, sure to last ski season after ski season. Plus, the sweaters are such a classic that they're certainly not likely to go out of style anytime soon.
Mountain Hardwear Monkey Fleece
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This super-soft fleece will have fellow skiers cozying up to you in no time. Unbelievably comfortable, the Mountain Hardwear Monkey Fleece is a versatile choice. With technical features like Polartec® Thermal Pro® fleece and stretchy side-panels to ensure freedom of movement, the Monkey Fleece is a good choice to wear under your ski jacket, but it also has a rugged, mountain-casual look that looks great on its own once the lifts close. The Monkey Fleece is available for both men and women, in multiple colors.
Patagonia Flannel Shirt
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Patagonia makes cozy flannel shirts for both men and women. The heavy flannel has a relaxed fit that's comfortable under a fleece, a vest or even a ski jacket. It'll seal out the chill on those icy winter nights, and has a rugged look that will fit right in at any ski resort bar or aprés-ski pub.
Patagonia Retro-X Vest
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If you're looking for a vest that will perform well on and off the slopes, the Retro-X is the one for you. The Patagonia Retro X Vest is easily one of the most versatile vests on the market. The thick pile fleece is windproof and warm, with a moisture-wicking lining. Plus, the fleece used in Patagonia's Retro X pieces is durable for long lasting wear, and has shown to be very resistant to pilling. This rugged vest is hardy enough for the slopes, but looks great off the slopes, too, on both men and women.
Pendleton Bag
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Pendleton has been making classic woolen bags inspired by Native American designs since the early 1900's, garnering a rich heritage that fits in perfectly with the ambiance of ski towns. The mid-western look is in tune with the mountains, and in terms of practicality, Pendleton bags are durable and versatile, doubling as your go-to bag for around town and an airplane carry-on bag.
Woolrich Mittens
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No one wants to wear their pair of bulky, waterproof gloves out to a restaurant, bar or lounge, so next time you're in a ski resort town, make sure you have a pair of off-slope gloves for that trek from hotel to restaurant. Woolrich makes gloves and mittens that are just as much fashionable and functional, so they'll keep your hands toasty on cold winter nights, yet they're also easy to stuff in your pocket or in your bag once you reach your destination.
Sorel Snow Boots
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If you want to just bring one pair of snow boots on your ski vacation or weekend in the mountains, consider Sorel. Sorel makes reasonably priced men and women's snow boots that are insulated, waterproof and sturdy, but have a modern, stylish look that's fashionable enough to wear around town.
