You just finished your last run of the day, and you’re reminiscing on burning groomers, finding pockets of powder, and seeking out the occasional air.

But that’s all behind you now, and you have one thing on your mind, apres.

French for after, apres refers to the magical time after skiing where you and other skiers from the mountain pack into the local watering hole to share your stories from the day.

But for some, apres is more than just a time to kick their feet up. It’s half the reason they came skiing. So to make sure you blend in with the crowd, here is what to wear to apres at the town, lodge, or bar.


(Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you take action (i.e., subscribe, or purchase) after clicking one of these links, I’ll earn some money that I promise to use on coffee to produce better articles.)


What to Wear Apres Skiing

Heading to the Town

Apres Skiing in the town of Park City

So you decided to go into town, good choice.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet place for a drink or a pizza spot for an early dinner, the town has got you covered.

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When it comes down to what to wear into town, you have options.

You can easily wear your ski gear if you plan only to stay an hour or two after lifts close. If you choose this option, I recommend switching out of your ski boots for something more walking-friendly. 

It is also totally acceptable to wear street clothes. The specific attire you choose depends on where you’re going. For that local watering hole, a flannel, parka, or a shell is more than adequate The same goes for dinner. 

But here’s a local tip. No matter where you go, make sure to bring a beanie, gloves, and chapstick. Why? Well the beanie and gloves will make the walk between the building more enjoyable and the chapstick, well the dry mountain air is notorious for wreaking havoc on bar lips.

Staying in the Lodge for Apres Ski

What to wear in the lodge for Apres Skiing

Staying in the lodge? I don’t blame you.

Today’s ski lodges are luxurious palaces equipped with the amenities you could want after a day of skiing. 

For the lodge, everything from formal attire to your bathrobe is acceptable. Again this depends on whether you’re heading to the seafood buffet or the pool.

I recommend opting for some loungewear as you wander towards the steam room or saddle up to the bar. If you want to master the lodge life, get yourself a pair of down slippers (that’s right down), a warm but fashionable fleece, and finally, something to keep that cocktail cold

Apres at The Bar

What to wear for apres skiing at the bar

Going to the bar? Hopefully, you brought your pit vipers.

When the exhaustion from the day combines with the libations flowing at the bar, you will quickly see when ski town bars are notorious for their antics.

The type of bar you are heading to will decide what you end up wearing. But for the most part, ski bars err on the side of casual. A simple pair of jeans and a flannel will do nicely. 

However, this changes if you’re at a slopeside nightclub in Europe. 

But don’t forget the flask on the walk to the bars. Drinks in a ski town cost more than your typical dinner.


Pro Tip: Since you’re at elevation, you will get impaired quickly and have a hangover worse than you can imagine. So bring some electrolyte supplements and drink them before you go to bed and right when you wake up. The first chair doesn’t wait for anyone.


Ahh Apres Skiing

Ski towns are great. No matter what you’re feeling, you can always find an apres scene to suit the mood. If you’ve never been out in a ski town, I encourage you to explore. 

The scene is unlike any you will find in your hometown. Plus, it’s a great way to meet some locals and get some beta on the best place to ski the next day.

I'm Sean. Owner of MTBS&F and self-proclaimed ski/bike bum. Catch me on the trails on the weekends and working out during the week.

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