Ski equipment: what to bring skiing in Ski Civetta. Boots, socks, gloves, goggles and helmet
A day on the Ski Civetta slopes is often decided before you even get on the chairlift: warm feet, dry hands, good visibility and a well-protected head make the difference between a day to remember and one to forget. In this guide we have gathered all our advice on ski boots, socks, gloves, goggles and helmets in one place, with a final packing checklist for your ski week in the Dolomites.
At a glance
Boots: the right size (Mondopoint) and a flex that matches your level.
Socks: one pair only, in merino wool or technical fabric, dry every morning.
Gloves: waterproof and breathable; mittens if your hands get cold easily.
Goggles or sunglasses: always, even under cloudy skies: at altitude the snow reflects most of the sun's rays.
Helmet: certified and in your size, mandatory for everyone on Italian slopes since the 2025/26 season.
Ski boots: the link between you and your skis
Ski boots transfer every movement of your legs to the skis. If they are too loose you lose control and precision; if they are too tight you get pain and blisters. On the Civetta slopes, which alternate scenic runs with more technical sections, a good fit is also a matter of safety.
Size, flex and fit
Size (Mondopoint): it matches the length of your foot in centimetres. Measure your foot carefully and don't pick a bigger boot to feel comfortable: your foot must be held firmly in place.
Flex (stiffness): soft (50-70) for beginners or light skiers, medium (80-100) for intermediate skiers, stiff (110 and above) for expert skiers looking for maximum precision.
Width (last): boots are made for narrow, medium and wide feet. Choose the one that wraps your foot without squeezing it.
Buckles: levers, ratchets and velcro power straps should allow precise adjustment without overtightening.
If your foot has an unusual shape or a high arch, a professional bootfitter can mould the shell and the inner liner: a small investment you will appreciate from your second day on the snow.
Ski socks: small but decisive
A good ski sock keeps your feet warm and dry, wicks sweat away from your skin and reduces rubbing inside the boot. It sounds like a detail, but with cold feet your day on the snow ends early.
Merino wool: warm, soft and breathable, it keeps you warm even when slightly damp.
Synthetic fibres: polyester, nylon and elastane dry quickly and are hard-wearing.
Wool and synthetic blends: combine warmth, breathability and durability.
Choose a sock that fits snugly without wrinkles, reaches up to the calf to protect your shin, and has flat seams and reinforced heel and toe. Thickness depends on the cold and on how your boot fits: thicker is warmer, thinner gives more feel. Pack one pair of socks for each day of skiing.
Ski gloves: warm hands all day long
It's hard to enjoy the snow with cold hands. The right glove depends on the temperature, on how much you feel the cold and on the way you ski.
Five-finger gloves: the most versatile, they leave your fingers free to buckle your boots and backpack.
Mittens: keep your fingers together and are the warmest; ideal if you feel the cold and for children.
Three-finger (lobster) gloves: a middle ground, with the warmth of mittens and a little more dexterity.
Look for a waterproof, breathable membrane, thermal insulation (down, merino wool or quality synthetic fibres) and adjustable cuffs that keep the snow out. For the coldest days there are also battery-heated gloves and touchscreen models that let you use your smartphone without taking them off. After skiing, let them dry thoroughly, away from direct heat.
Ski goggles or sunglasses: protecting your eyes
At altitude the sun's rays are stronger and fresh snow reflects up to 80% of them. Protecting your eyes prevents discomfort, glare and the risk of snow blindness, and helps you see the bumps on the slope better.
Goggles: a wide field of vision, they seal against your face and shield you from wind and snow; they fit with your helmet and stay in place even if you fall. They are the best choice for skiing.
Sunglasses: light and easy to take off, perfect for breaks at the mountain hut and for sunny days without wind.
Choosing the right lens colour
Clear: very low light or night skiing.
Yellow or gold: cloudy days; improves contrast and depth perception.
Pink or red: changeable skies; works in many light conditions.
Green: a balance between contrast and true colours.
Brown or amber: sunny days; reduces glare.
Grey or dark: full sun and very bright light.
If you can only have one, choose goggles with interchangeable or photochromic lenses: in the mountains the light can change several times in the same day.
Ski helmet: mandatory for everyone in Italy
Since the 2025/26 season, helmets have been mandatory on Italian slopes for everyone, adults included. Your helmet must be certified, the right size and in good condition: skiing without one can mean a fine of 100 to 150 euros. You'll find the rules, liability insurance and tips on choosing the right helmet in our guide Mandatory ski helmet and insurance in Italy: the 2026/27 rules. For right of way, speed and signs, read Safety on the slopes of Ski Civetta.
Rent or bring your own ski gear?
If you only ski a few times a year, renting is convenient: skis, boots and helmet are adjusted to your size and you don't have to load them into the car. If you already own ski boots, bring them: they are the most personal part of your equipment. Socks, gloves, goggles and helmet liner, on the other hand, are better to have your own.
Ski packing checklist
Boots and skis: your own or rented.
Certified helmet and goggles, tried on together.
Ski socks: one pair for each day.
Gloves or mittens, plus a spare pair.
Layered clothing: breathable base layer, fleece and waterproof jacket.
Helmet liner or neck warmer for the coldest days.
Sunscreen and lip balm with high protection.
Liability insurance and ski pass.
Frequently asked questions about ski equipment
Goggles or sunglasses: which is better for skiing?
Goggles are better for skiing: they offer more protection from wind, snow and reflected light, and they fit with your helmet. Sunglasses are handy for breaks at the mountain hut and for sunny days without wind.
What size ski boots should I choose?
Your Mondopoint size, which is the length of your foot in centimetres. Your foot should be held firmly in the boot without being squeezed: avoid going one size up just to feel comfortable.
Can I wear two pairs of socks to stay warmer?
Better not: two pairs create wrinkles and rubbing and make your feet sweat, so they then get cold. A single pair of dry technical socks keeps you warmer.
Is a ski helmet mandatory for adults in Italy?
Yes. Since the 2025/26 season, helmets have been mandatory on Italian slopes for everyone, regardless of age. Your helmet must be certified and in your size.
See you on the slopes of Ski Civetta
Hotel Ca' del Bosco is in Santa Fosca, Selva di Cadore, just one kilometre from the Ski Civetta lifts, part of the Dolomiti Superski area. Back from the slopes you leave your skis and boots in our heated, video-monitored ski room and enjoy a warm dinner from our kitchen. Find out why we are the ideal hotel for skiing in Ski Civetta or ask us for a quote for your ski week.
Guide updated on 19 October 2026.
M.D.C.
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