Checklist · 11 picks · 5 categories
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Skiers already own the big stuff, so the best gifts are the things that wear out, fog up or get left in a lodge. That means goggles, a helmet upgrade, warm mittens, good ski socks, a merino base layer and SPF lip balm for wind and sun. Most picks here won an award from OutdoorGearLab or Treeline Review on my ski trip list, where I explain each one. The Smith goggles are the splurge, and socks, hand warmers and lip balm make easy stocking stuffers. Helmets and goggles fit differently on every head, so include a gift receipt.
Who this is not for. Skip this if they're brand new to skiing; the ski trip list covers the basics.
means three independent outlets recommend a pick, means one, and limited evidence means none has yet. I research these picks. I have not tested them myself. How I pick · Broken link, wrong price range or an outdated pick? Tell me
| Pick | Tier | Price | Best for | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glade Adapt 2 | mid | $100+ | one lens for sun and flat light | 1 outlet |
| Goodr Snow G | budget | $50-100 | a fun first pair of goggles | 1 outlet |
| Giro Ratio Mips | mid | $100+ | someone still renting a helmet | 1 outlet |
Best ski gogglesmid pick · One size
Best for one lens for sun and flat light
A photochromic lens that adjusts to the light, with strong venting and good optics. OutdoorGearLab's midrange value pick.
Heads up. Less surface detail in low light
1 outlet. OutdoorGearLab best buy ski goggles (midrange value).
$100+
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budget pick · One size
Best for a fun first pair of goggles
OutdoorGearLab's bargain pick: solid optics and very easy magnetic lens swaps for the price.
Heads up. Muted colors, slower venting, and it runs large
1 outlet. OutdoorGearLab best buy ski goggles (best bargain).
$50-100
Search AmazonAffiliate link.
mid pick · Pick by head size
Best for someone still renting a helmet
Strong impact test results, adjustable vents and a dial for a precise fit. OutdoorGearLab's best value helmet.
Heads up. Heavier and bulkier than many competitors
1 outlet. OutdoorGearLab best buy ski helmet (best value).
$100+
Search AmazonAffiliate link.
| Pick | Tier | Price | Best for | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Diamond Mercury Mitt | mid | $100+ | the skier whose hands are always cold | 1 outlet |
| Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion Over-the-Calf Socks | mid | $25-50 | an easy add-on every skier uses | 1 outlet |
| Grabber Hand Warmers (10 Pairs) | budget | $15-25 | stocking stuffers for the lift line | 1 outlet |
Best ski glovesmid pick · Pick by hand size
Best for the skier whose hands are always cold
OutdoorGearLab's best overall mitten: exceptionally warm and durable, with an insulated liner included.
Heads up. Low dexterity, and no wrist leash
1 outlet. OutdoorGearLab editors' choice ski mittens.
$100+
Search AmazonAffiliate link.
mid pick · Pick by shoe size
Best for an easy add-on every skier uses
Treeline Review's best overall ski sock: warm, comfortable, wicks moisture and fits well even in stiff boots.
Heads up. Expensive for socks
1 outlet. Treeline Review best overall ski socks.
$25-50
Search AmazonAffiliate link.
budget pick · Compact
Best for stocking stuffers for the lift line
Outdoor Life's best overall hand warmer: cheap, light, and about 11 hours of warmth in its test. Keep a few pairs in the glovebox.
Heads up. Single use
1 outlet. Outdoor Life best overall hand warmer.
$15-25
Search AmazonAffiliate link.
Best base layersplurge pick · Pick by size
Best for cold chairlift rides
OutdoorGearLab's best overall base layer: very warm for its weight and super soft, with a zip to let heat out.
Heads up. Pure merino needs gentle washing and drying
1 outlet. OutdoorGearLab editors' choice base layer.
$100+
Search AmazonAffiliate link.
budget pick · One size
Best for après-ski and the walk to the car
OutdoorGearLab's best overall beanie: warm, weather-resistant and classic, with a stretchy one-size fit.
Heads up. Can run hot when you're active
1 outlet. OutdoorGearLab editors' choice beanie.
$15-25
Search AmazonAffiliate link.
Best spf lip balmmid pick · Pocket-size
Best for wind-chapped lips
Treeline Review's best overall SPF lip balm and the clear favorite in its blind test: neutral, not shiny, hydrating without feeling heavy.
Heads up. Rubs off fairly easily, so reapply often
1 outlet. Treeline Review best overall spf lip balm.
under $15
Search AmazonAffiliate link.
splurge pick · Travel-friendly
Best for bright bluebird days
Treeline Review's best overall face sunscreen: moisturizing, lightweight and fragrance-free.
Heads up. Slightly tacky finish
1 outlet. Treeline Review best overall face sunscreen.
$25-50
Search AmazonAffiliate link.
Best ski gogglessplurge pick · One size
Best for the skier who lives on the mountain
OutdoorGearLab's best overall goggle: top-tier optics, a wide view, secure lens swaps and a flexible frame that fits many faces.
Heads up. Slight distortion along the bottom of the lens
1 outlet. OutdoorGearLab editors' choice ski goggles.
$100+
Search AmazonAffiliate link.
Things that wear out or get lost: ski socks, lip balm with SPF, hand warmers, a new beanie, or goggles with a lens for flat light. A lift ticket or lesson is a great experience gift too.
USPS's recommended last send dates for December 25 in the contiguous US are December 17 for Ground Advantage, December 18 for Priority Mail and December 19 for Priority Mail Express. Retailers set their own order-by dates, so check at checkout.
It is less useful if they're brand new to skiing; the ski trip list covers the basics.
No. I have not reviewed them. I read published reviews and name the outlet on the pick.
Budget is the cheaper one that still does the job. Mid is what most people should buy. Splurge is only if you will use it often.