Skiing may be the main draw, but let’s be honest—après-ski is just as fun. First coined in the Alps during the 1950s, this time-honoured tradition is French for “after ski,” a catch-all phrase that covers everything you do after you unclip your skis. Mugs of hot chocolate by the fire? Check. Pints of craft beer at a boisterous pub? Check. A long soak in the hotel hot tub? Check. Game nights, ice skating, hearty meals? The list goes on. Think of après-ski as your well-earned encore to a day carving up the slopes, whether you’re new to the bunny hill or a weekend warrior who’s first in the lift line. The key to embracing après-ski is in the prep. Keep those base and outer layers nearby, and consider these six essentials for après-ski:
Dress smart for après-ski
Après-ski is often mistaken for a high-altitude fashion show—when in reality, it’s about embracing winter’s best moments off the ski hill. Whatever gear you pack should keep you warm, comfortable, and easily take you from mountaintop to mountain chalet. The best part about après-ski? Your snow gear doubles as post-slope attire, meaning you only need to pack a few extras to make the most of the experience. In addition to your base layers, snow jacket, and winter headgear, you’ll want to consider bringing fleece jackets and cozy sweaters—easy to throw on around the bonfire or after a soak in the hot tub—along with beanies, comfy scarves, and casual winter gloves. (This is where you should swap out those ski mitts for something less bulky and more ideal for holding screens, pints, and hands.)
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Choose dual-purpose footwear
Leave your clunky ski boots at the rental shop or lodge. When it comes to après-ski, you’ll want to bring footwear that is versatile. Indoor booties and slippers up the cozy factor when you’re lounging by the fire in your hotel room, but can easily take you downstairs to the lounge, restaurant, or pool (just make sure to stash them in the change room). Waterproof and insulated winter boots are needed for traipsing around village centres, snowy trails, and outdoor patios. Choose boots that are warm, functional, and—if you want to really nail your après-ski look—stylish.
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Prioritize post-ski recovery
You’ve just exposed your skin and lips to a day of windburn, sun, and potentially freezing temps—what now? Help your post-ski glow with some much-needed self-care. If your skin is parched and dull, a rich hydrating moisturizer can help replenish lost moisture and protect against further dryness. Lip balm—on and off the slopes—is essential. Look for ones that are medicated or have SPF, but the ultimate trick is to layer some petroleum jelly over your lip balm to lock in moisture and act as the first line of defence against mountaintop winds. Another crucial piece of gear? A ski helmet. The only downside when it comes to après-ski is a dreaded case of helmet hair. To keep your locks in check, try a braid, low ponytail, or tuck them into a neck gaiter or balaclava before hitting the slopes. If that doesn’t do the trick, a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray can work wonders.
Keep it hydrated and fuelled
Drinks are an integral part of après-ski, from boozy chalet aperitifs to hot chocolate to local brews. Before you imbibe, you’ll want to make sure you’re well-hydrated with water (and electrolytes)—skiing works up a good sweat, and you’ll need plenty of H2O to help your muscles rebound for day two. Post-run drinks range from soothing cups of tea to indulgent hot chocolate to energizing cups of coffee. Mulled wine is a classic choice for lakeside bonfires while glasses of beer and wine, along with creative cocktails, up the revelry as a toast to the day’s adventures. Don’t forget to fuel up, too—easy-to-carry snacks like granola bars or chocolates keep energy levels steady, so you’re ready for whatever après-ski adventure comes next.
Create a convivial ambiance
Après-ski is all about transforming an average evening into an alpine experience to remember. It’s an extension of your on-slope adventure—a way to continue the fun, unwind with friends, and take in the spectacular mountain settings. However you après, extra touches like candles, string lights, and cozy blankets help create an inviting atmosphere, while travel games or a deck of cards are perfect ice-breakers if you’re travelling in a larger group.
Stay organized
Just like your day on the slopes, you’ll want to maximize every minute of your après-ski plans. (Depending on how many laps you sent, bedtime might come earlier than you think.) A little prep is key to making your post-run experience smooth and seamless. A lightweight day pack keeps your essentials—like gloves, a water bottle, and an extra baselayer—within easy reach, while a travel-size toiletry kit is a game-changer for freshening up before dinner or drinks—especially if you’re headed straight from the lift line to the lodge bar.
Après-ski starts with the right attitude. It doesn’t matter how much vert you got in, or whether you took a harmless fall—with a healthy dose of gratitude and perspective, any bad day on the slopes can still be followed by a great après-ski experience. The other trick to nailing after ski hours? These six essentials. Remember to pack smart, layer well, stay hydrated, and prioritize post-ski recovery. After all, you’re likely to do it all over again tomorrow.
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