It’s minus 16 degrees Celsius (minus three degrees Fahrenheit) and the wind has a sharp edge to it. Yet the tracks are calling. Skiing with frostbitten toes is no pleasure, but neither is breaking into a sweat within the first few metres. So how should you dress for winter exercise when temperatures plunge?
We headed to ski trails in Finland’s capital, Helsinki, and to Kuusamo up north, to ask skiers what they rely on when the mercury drops.
Matilda, 3, skiing in Kuusamo
Matilda is wrapped up in a bright orange padded snowsuit, with merino wool layers underneath. Her hat and gloves are firm favourites.
“I like pink. It’s my favourite colour.”
Pentti, 81, and Maija, 73, skiing in Helsinki
“We’ve skied in Lapland [in northern Finland] dozens of times, so that’s where I learned how to dress for the cold,” says Pentti. “Today it is minus five degrees, so the weather couldn’t be better for cross-country skiing. I’m wearing base layers and fleece under my ski suit. The suit itself is old. I think we men tend to keep our clothes for a long time. For example, I can’t give up my hat. My wife can spot me from far away just by recognising it.”
Maija adds, “I wear thermal layers, a ski suit and a gilet. I always protect my face carefully.”
Jari, 72, skiing in Kuusamo
“Clothes shouldn’t make you sweat. Some outfits trap moisture. With merino wool, you don’t feel damp. I’m also carrying extra woollen layers in my rucksack, as it is almost minus 20 degrees Celsius [minus four degrees Fahrenheit] at the moment.”
Tuula, 68, skiing in Helsinki
“I’m wearing some old thermal trousers and a very old jacket, as they keep the wind out. Underneath I have merino wool and cotton. I usually dress quite warmly. Even today I’m carrying mittens, because as I’ve gotten older my fingers get cold more easily.”
Keijo, 62, and Essi, 32, skiing in Kuusamo
“My hat is about 20 years old and it still does the job,” says Keijo. “My base layers are breathable and the outer layer is windproof. It’s windy now, but the cold doesn’t cut straight through you. When skiing, it’s important not to wear too much.”
Essi says, “I wear slightly newer gear. I’m into sports equipment. I get cold easily, so staying warm is the key.”
Edda, 18 months old, skiing in Kuusamo
Edda is wearing her big brother’s old snowsuit and skiing for the second time in her life. Her skis are attached directly to her regular boots. Ski poles are not yet necessary.
Antti, 26, and Riku, 25, skiing in Helsinki
“I’m wearing a base layer with running trousers on top,” Antti says. “The jacket is actually meant for cycling, but it works well for skiing too. Layering is essential. I’m sensitive around my face, so a neck gaiter and sports glasses offer protection.”
Riku adds, “For me, it’s important to dress appropriately for what I’m doing. Today that means base layers and a tracksuit. I borrowed these skis from Antti.”
Ritva, 72, skiing in Kuusamo
“I have a merino wool base layer, a second insulating layer and a Finnish Raiski outdoor suit on me. I have two pairs of thin socks on and a beanie that covers my ears. Layering is wise in freezing temperatures. I’ve also learned that ski gloves shouldn’t be too thick – I originally bought these for motorcycling. I always wear contact lenses when skiing, as glasses fog up too easily.”
Aape, 3, skiing in Kuusamo
Aape is dressed in a padded snowsuit by Finnish brand Reima, with a woollen overall underneath and a hat on his head. He went on his first ski outing a couple years ago.
Text and photos by Emilia Kangasluoma, February 2026
