Halfdays on Good Morning America: How to Gear Up for the Slopes with Warmth and Style
Halfdays offers stylish, high-performance ski wear and outdoor apparel focused on comfort, fit, and functionality without the pressures of traditional outdoor culture designed specifically for women.
Ski season is in full swing, and whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, choosing the right gear can be overwhelming. That’s where Halfdays comes in—a women-founded ski and outdoor brand dedicated to making the slopes more stylish, accessible, and functional for women everywhere.
Ariana Ferwerda, co-founder and CEO of Halfdays, recently shared her top ski gear tips on Good Morning America, giving us a glimpse into how she layers up like a pro and selects the best gear for different conditions.
The Halfdays Mission: Empowering Women on the Mountain
“We are trying to bring more women to the mountain and encourage people just to get out there,” says Ferwerda. “We want our products to be technical and warm, but also look great on.” Halfdays was founded with a mission to reimagine women’s ski wear—combining performance and style without sacrificing comfort.
Her advice is simple: choose gear that’s both waterproof and warm, but don’t be afraid to add your own style to the mix. When it comes to outerwear, waterproof ratings between 10,000 mm and 20,000 mm are key, with a baseline of 15,000 mm or higher to ensure you stay dry in snowy conditions.
Gear Up Like a Pro: Layering Tips from Halfdays’ CEO
Base Layers - Your base layer is the foundation of your ski outfit, and picking the right one depends on where you’re skiing.
Frigid Northeast: Opt for a Merino wool-blend for extra warmth.
Sunny Colorado: A synthetic material will keep you comfortable without overheating.
Ferwerda also recommends ensuring your leggings lay flat under your boots to avoid irritation.
Accessories Matter - Don’t underestimate the power of accessories!
Ski socks: Choose sweat-wicking materials like a Merino wool blend for warmth and dryness.
Neck warmers and hand warmers: Essential for those especially cold days on the mountain.
Waterproof bag: Use it to stash lip balm, SPF moisturizer, and other small essentials.
Ferwerda’s favorite? The Ace Fanny Pack from Dagne Dover, made with durable neoprene.
Outerwear: Classic or Bold?
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skier, Ferwerda offers specific advice:
For Novices: Invest in insulated ski jackets and pants in classic styles for versatility. These pieces will last for years and are perfect for everyday resort skiing.
For Seasoned Skiers: Already have the basics? Level up your style with a pop-color jacket or form-fitting ski pants for a fresh, fashionable look on the slopes.
Halfdays: Style Meets Performance on the Slopes
Since launching Halfdays, Ariana Ferwerda and her team have been on a mission to redefine ski wear for women, focusing on inclusivity, performance, and sustainability. The brand’s thoughtfully designed outerwear blends technical features with modern style, making it easier—and more fun—for women to hit the slopes confidently.
Whether you’re shopping for your first set of gear or looking to upgrade, Ferwerda’s advice is a reminder that staying warm and dry doesn’t mean sacrificing style. With the right layers and gear, your next trip to the mountains can be as comfortable as it is stylish.
Read more on Good Morning America
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