With temperatures dipping to minus 16 degrees Celsius (minus three degrees Fahrenheit) and a biting wind swirling, the allure of the ski trails remains irresistible. While skiing with frostbitten toes can be quite uncomfortable, the alternative—breaking into a sweat within moments—is hardly desirable either. So, how does one prepare for outdoor exercise when the cold really sets in?
To find out, we ventured to the ski trails of Finland’s capital, Helsinki, and further north to Kuusamo, where we spoke with skiers about their tried-and-true winter gear for frigid conditions.
Matilda, 3, skiing in Kuusamo
Wrapped snugly in a vibrant orange padded snowsuit, Matilda has merino wool layers tucked beneath. Her favorite hat and gloves are essential accessories for her winter outings.
“I like pink. It’s my favorite color,” she says with a smile.
Pentti, 81, and Maija, 73, skiing in Helsinki
“We’ve skied in Lapland dozens of times, so that’s where I learned to dress for the cold,” Pentti shares. “Today it’s minus five degrees, making it perfect weather for cross-country skiing. I’m layered up with thermals and fleece under my ski suit. This suit is old—I think men hang onto their clothes longer. I can’t part with my hat; my wife can spot me from a distance just by recognizing it.”
Maija adds, “I go for thermal layers, a ski suit, and a gilet. Face protection is crucial for me.”
Jari, 72, skiing in Kuusamo
“Clothes shouldn’t make you sweat. Some outfits can trap moisture. I prefer merino wool—no dampness to worry about. I’ve packed extra wool layers in my rucksack; it’s almost minus 20 degrees Celsius,” Jari explains as he adjusts his gear.
Tuula, 68, skiing in Helsinki
“I’m sporting some old thermal trousers and a very old jacket—they keep the wind at bay. Underneath, I layer merino wool with cotton. I tend to wrap up warmly. I’ve also got mittens with me because my fingers get cold more easily as I age,” Tuula states, showcasing her practical approach to winter wear.
Keijo, 62, and Essi, 32, skiing in Kuusamo
“My hat is about 20 years old, but it still works wonders,” Keijo remarks. “My base layers are breathable, and the outer layer is windproof. Even with the wind today, I don’t feel the chill cutting through. It’s all about not overdoing it while skiing.”
Essi chimes in, “I’ve got slightly newer gear since I’m into sports equipment. I get cold easily, so staying warm is my priority.”
Edda, 18 months old, skiing in Kuusamo
Taking her second ski outing, Edda is bundled in her big brother’s old snowsuit. Her skis are attached directly to her regular boots; ski poles will have to wait for now.
Antti, 26, and Riku, 25, skiing in Helsinki
“I’m in a base layer with running trousers over the top,” Antti explains. “The jacket I wear is actually designed for cycling, but it’s perfect for skiing too. Layering is key for me. I’m sensitive around my face, so I use a neck gaiter and sports glasses for protection.”
Riku adds, “For me, appropriate dressing depends on the activity. Today, it’s base layers and a tracksuit. I borrowed these skis from Antti.”
Ritva, 72, skiing in Kuusamo
“I’m donning a merino wool base layer, an insulating layer, and a Finnish Raiski outdoor suit,” Ritva notes. “I have two pairs of thin socks and a beanie covering my ears. Layering is wise when it’s this cold. I’ve found that ski gloves shouldn’t be too thick; I initially bought these for motorcycling. And I always wear contact lenses while skiing since glasses have a knack for fogging up,” she adds with a knowing smile.
Aape, 3, skiing in Kuusamo
Aape is outfitted in a padded snowsuit from the Finnish brand Reima, layered with a woolen overall and topped with a snug hat. He recalls his first ski outing a couple of years ago with excitement.
Text and photos by Emilia Kangasluoma, February 2026