Choosing the right equipment for your ski holiday is essential for both safety and comfort. It is recommended to buy base and mid layers, while renting jackets, pants, and boots is convenient and cost-effective. Helmets, gloves, and ski goggles should be purchased, and skis and boots are worth buying if you travel frequently. AMG makes it easy to rent all ski equipment and enjoy a comfortable winter adventure.
With such a wide range of ski equipment available for purchase and rental, it can be difficult to determine exactly what you need for your ski holiday. Below is the essential information you should know about ski equipment and clothing.
Clothing
A good thermal base and mid layer are essential; merino wool or synthetic materials provide necessary insulation, breathe well, and wick moisture quickly. During your first ski or snowboard lesson, your heart rate may increase significantly, so a proper base layer is very important. A quality mid layer will keep you warm in cold weather, especially on the lifts. Lightweight down or synthetic jackets provide warmth and are compact enough to remove if needed. Finally, a fully waterproof and windproof outer jacket and pants will protect you from the elements while allowing freedom of movement. Gore-Tex is a reliable choice, and if you have a mid layer, one or two layers of outerwear will be warm enough.
Buy or Rent?
Base and mid layers are usually purchased or borrowed from friends. Since they are personal items, they are rarely available for rental. Generally, they are long-lasting and can be used as daily wear in cold weather. Outer jackets and pants can be rented or purchased depending on your choice. In general, if this is your first or a one-time ski trip, renting will save you money and reduce your luggage. On the other hand, if you plan to ski frequently or go on a long-term ski holiday, investing in your own gear is worthwhile.
Helmet
All new or rental helmets meet safety standards, so as long as the size is correct (not too big or tilted back), it’s hard to go wrong. Most places offer rentals, which is a good way to try different models. Comfort is the main priority – focus on it more than aesthetics. Second-hand helmets can be bought or borrowed, but you won’t know if they’ve been hit hard before. In such cases, the helmet may lose structural integrity and fail to provide proper protection. Therefore, renting from a trusted store or buying new is recommended.
Ski Goggles
For hygiene reasons, goggles are rarely rented, so they should be purchased or borrowed. When choosing, pick models with two or more interchangeable lenses for different weather conditions, or lenses suitable for everyday use that are neither too dark nor too light. You don’t need to spend a lot – quality goggles can be found at reasonable prices. However, in most cases, the amount you pay corresponds to quality – the higher the price, the better the eye protection and visual comfort.
Ski Boots
There’s nothing worse than skiing with tight or wet boots after spending so much on your trip. If you have your own skis or boots, always prioritize boots. Everyone’s feet are different, so ill-fitting boots often cause pain. Should you buy or rent? Simply put, if you ski often and plan to continue in the future, buying is a good investment – consult a professional boot fitter. If it’s your first ski trip, renting quality boots is enough. If your feet are uncomfortable, take action immediately – don’t wait until it gets worse. When buying, it is recommended to choose heat-moldable custom insoles.
Skis
Having your own skis is great, but carrying them on long trips can be heavy and inconvenient. Ski technology evolves rapidly, and renting at your destination allows you to try the latest models. Top rental centers even allow you to switch skis daily – one day in deep powder, the next on fast groomed runs. Going to a place like Hakuba with only one pair is risky, as snow conditions change quickly. If you spend long periods on the slopes each winter and have storage space, buying may make sense.
Poles
Children under 7 don’t need ski poles – they learn better without them. Adults can also learn the first 1–2 days without poles, but once basics are mastered, they can be rented. Recreational models are sufficient; height-appropriate poles will work fine. Poles are usually included with skis and boots and don’t require extra payment. If you don’t have your own skis, buying poles is not recommended – they are cumbersome to carry and cheap to rent.
Gloves
Buying gloves is a good choice. Since they are personal items, they are usually not rented, and a quality pair is essential for warmth. If you are sensitive to cold or buying for a child, mittens are better. Fingers together retain heat better. Children’s gloves sometimes turn inside out when removed, so mittens are more suitable. Waterproofing is essential, and usually, higher price means better quality.
Neck Warmer
Optional, but recommended for children and adults in harsh climates. Best purchased rather than rented. Keeps the neck, chin, and mouth warm.
Ski Socks
Wearing multiple socks to increase warmth may seem tempting but is a mistake. Multiple socks cause friction and wrinkles inside the boot, leading to water collection. Wearing one pair of quality ski socks is crucial. Socks should fit properly and extend above the boot. Merino wool socks are very warm and reasonably priced.
AMG Tips
Whether you buy or rent these items, these are the essentials for a ski trip in Azerbaijan.
We especially recommend Bazarduzu Outdoors for rentals and purchases. They offer:
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a wide selection
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a professional team
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high level of service
