The Best Après-Ski Items of 2025 for Kicking Back After a Day on the Slopes
Whether you call it après-ski, apéro, or charcuteski, there’s something special about sharing a slope-side victory round of cocktails and tasty comestibles after a brilliant day at your favorite ski resort. The primary goal is to kick back with friends, old and new, after the last chairlift closes—or when you’ve reached your car after an epic backcountry mission. Otherwise, aprés-ski is really whatever you want it to be, ranging from an informal parking lot tailgate to lounging at your favorite watering hole at the base. The only thing resembling a rule when it comes to this hallowed activity is refraining from changing out of your ski gear into civilian clothes—with some recommended exceptions, included below.
We’ve toasted great ski days with sake in Japan, aquavit in Sweden and Norway, and Kir Royales in France. The most memorable times were in St. Anton, Switzerland, where festivities featured dancing in ski boots on tables, and various après-ski props like shot belts, pink mohawk wigs, and brightly patterned Speedos under retro one-piece ski suits. If you’ve reached that level of après-ski-dom, there’s probably not much we can teach you. For the rest of us just trying to figure out how a shot-ski works for the approaching ski season, here are our favorite new après-ski items of 2025 for celebrating your final runs of the day in comfort and style. And if you're ready for some other ski apparel upgrades, we have you covered for 2025. Check out our best ski jackets, best ski pants and bibs, and more.
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Best Après-Ski Items of 2025 at a Glance
Best Après-Ski Items of 2025
Yeti Rambler Ice-Breakers Set
Party in the parking lot with the Yeti Rambler Ice-Breaker Set. Crafted from rugged stainless steel, the Rambler—a heavy-duty, double-walled ice bucket—is basically usable art for your après-ski adventures. It holds a six-pack or up to three 750ml bottles and keeps them icy cold for hours. When our ski test team hits the trailhead or resort parking lot, they fill the Rambler with fresh snow and then pack it full of their favorite beverages. If you’re more into cocktails, you can fill it with ice cubes before you leave the house. A handy lid keeps drinks even cooler and prevents icy mishaps during transport. The Rambler Ice-Breaker set also includes an unbreakable stainless steel ice scoop and an over-engineered bottle opener. All three items are ones you’ll use at home too, so they won’t gather dust in the off season.
UGGS Heritage Pull On Trail Gazer Boots
Ski boots are tough on your feet, and after a long day carving turns, you want to treat your dogs right. Our current après-ski footwear fav is the UGGS Heritage Pull On Trail Gazers. These stylish Achilles-high boots are waterproof and made from seam-sealed full-grain leather, so they keep your feet cozy and dry while you unwind. Inside, is a plush lining made from 60 percent upcycled wool and Tencel, rated to keep your toes toasty in minus 20 temps (though to be honest, by the time the mercury gets that low, we’re usually sipping cocoa in the hot tub). Our testers loved the White Spider Rubber soles—perfect for gripping icy surfaces. We like to think they’re named after the legendary climbing route on the Eiger North Face, ready to tackle whatever après-ski adventure comes next. For spring conditions, the no-nonsense UGGS Tasman Slipper ($110) with it ultra-lightweight, durable outsole, plush wool lining, and suede uppers is a favorite for parking lot parties, as is the no-nonsense Bedrock Mountain Clog with its rugged outsoles, three-point secure heel strap, and single piece oiled-Nubuck leather upper ($175).
Vuarnet Ice Round Sunglasses
Retro sunglasses are essential for the après-ski scene, and nothing screams iconic like Vuarnet. First sported by downhill gold medalist Jean Vuarnet at the 1960 Winter Olympics, these stylish shades are built for the mountains. The Ice Round model features removable side shields for customizable protection against the elements, plus adjustable bio-nylon frames for all-day comfort as you toast to your ski victories. Our testers raved about the clarity of the mineral glass lenses; you’ll see better than with a plastic lens, and of course, they are a lot more scratch resistant. For those who prefer a more classic style, the Smith Optics Venture ($245) is a top pick among our testers. Featuring ChromaPop lenses, these shades are perfect for bright, sunny days on the mountain, enhancing color and clarity as you float through the fresh powder. The lightweight frames come with auto-lock hinges, making it a breeze to pull them out of your pocket and slip them on with one hand—ideal for when you’re juggling your gear or swapping them out for goggles on a skin track.
Flylow Wolfie Robe
When it comes to iconic bathrobes—think Fight Club meets The Big Lebowski—the Flylow Wolfie Robe holds its own. You’ll be the life of any après-ski party (hot tub or not), and trust us, everyone will want to be your friend. Outside are two deep hand pockets; inside, there are six stretch-mesh pockets designed to fit a six-pack, along with a zippered pocket for your credit card and hotel key. Crafted from luxuriously soft, high-pile fleece, the Wolfie features an oversized hood—perfect for those quick hot tub getaways before the security guards catch on. If you want to make new friends and keep the good times rolling, throw on the Wolfie and get ready for some serious après-ski fun!
Garmin Fenix
The Garmin Fenix is the Swiss Army Knife of watches—and perfect for skiing. If you were James Bond or a Marvel superhero, this is the watch you’d wear. Unlike other bulky timepieces that scream over-compensation, the Fenix is sleek, lightweight, and incredibly versatile. You can get the Fenix with 42, 47, and 51mm cases, but we liked the 42mm as it fits well beneath our layered ski apparel. The Power Sapphire solar charging lens proved to be a game-changer for longer hut trips and extended ski vacations. You don’t have to constantly be messing with a charger like you do with an Apple watch. Storm alerts, a compass, ascent and descent data, GPS mapping, and a body temperature monitor keep you safer in the backcountry, plus there’s tons of sport and health specific training features. For après-ski festivities that last past dark, there’s a handy hands-free flashlight to light your way back to the lodge.
Dale of Norway Setesdal Sweater
Channel your inner Viking (or just look like one) with the Dale of Norway Setesdale Sweater. Knitted wool sweaters have been a ski staple for centuries, and like a fine wine, their classic designs just get better with age. The Setesdal pattern, dating back to the days of the Vikings, features crosses and X’s that were woven into sweaters to ward off evil spirits and sea monsters. Our testers swear that the sweater also brings good luck for powder days. Crafted from durable Norwegian wool, complete with traditional pewter clasps and an embroidered band, this cozy piece boasts a relaxed fit and is naturally wind- and water-resistant—perfect for those sunny spring ski days when you want to stay stylish on the slopes.
Opinel Grilling Set
You’re spending a fortune on lift tickets, so shouldn’t your après-ski celebration be no holds barred? Elevate your outdoor cooking game with the Opinel Grilling Set. The robust trio of utensils is your best friend for grilling and over-the-fire cooking adventures. The No.12B Stainless Steel Opinel folding knife slices through meats, veggies, and fruits effortlessly, all while boasting a charming beech wood handle sourced from sustainably managed French forests. Plus, it comes with a handy bottle opener at the end. The Large Spatula+ locks into the knife handle—the spatula is oversized, which is how we like our après-ski burgers. The stainless-steel XL tongs are extra-long, making them great for grilling over hot coals or flaming wood. For a complete first-class upgrade, get the Les Forgés 1890 8" Chef’s knife ($179). Made from X50CrMoV15 steel, this fully hot-forged blade holds its edge beautifully.
prAna Dolberg Flannel Shirt and Wonderland Rocks Pant
You may be a ski bum at heart, but that doesn’t mean you have to look like one! After a day on the slopes, you’ll want to freshen up for the après scene and a night out. The solution? Keep a stylish change of clothes in your car for a seamless transition from après-ski brews to dinner. Enter the Dolberg Flannel, a tester favorite crafted from super soft, 100% organic cotton that exudes effortless mountain chic. Pair it with the prAna Wonderland Rocks Pant ($120) for your quick-change ensemble. Made from recycled polyester, these pants feature a ventilated gusset and plenty of pockets, including a concealed zipper pocket to stash your credit card until you’re ready to grab the next round.
Snow Peak Red Lounge Set
We can’t say if Scorsese, Spielberg, or Hitchcock ever hit the slopes, but they would appreciate tailgating in style with this twist on the classic director’s chair. Whether you’re discussing your favorite Warren Miller film or simply enjoying the sunset, these 7-pound chairs with their sturdy canvas seats and back and aluminum tube frame are the comfiest we’ve tested. The Red Lounge Set comes with a The Renewed Bamboo My Table (4 lbs) is a handy 16-inch-high table that’s ready for anything from snacks to card games.
Lifestraw SIP
So, you’ve just wrapped up an epic day on the slopes and are ready to kick back for some tailgating fun. You’ve got the cocktail ingredients, but no one remembered the ice—so you’re going to use snow. Enter the Lifestraw SIP, the world’s first stainless steel water filter straw. It lets you sip with confidence, whether you’re gulping down melting snow, water from a local stream, or suspect tap water when you’re globetrotting to international ski destinations. At a sleek 10 inches, it features an 0.2 micron filter that kicks bacteria (like E. coli) and pesky parasites (giardia and cryptosporidium) to the curb, all while removing microplastics. It can filter up to 1,000 liters of liquid, so there’s no reason not to stay hydrated. At just 3 ounces, it’s lightweight and comes with a handy carrying case.
Cotopaxi Fuego Down Overalls
Perfect for a ski midlayer on the coldest days or tailgating fashion, the Fuego Down Overall brings a playful retro twist to classic insulation. Crafted with responsibly sourced 800-fill down and a water-resistant DWR-finished shell, this lightweight overall features adjustable elastic straps, a concealed chest zipper, two zippered hand pockets, and a full-body 2-way zipper for easy on-and-off over your boots. You’ll stay toasty with the ALLIED Feather + Down insulation, which comes from a certified, transparent supply chain that ensures animal welfare.
Columbia Arctic Crest Sherpa Full Zip Fleece Jacket
Courtesy image
Designed with the principles of biomimicry—examining nature, understanding how it works, and using that blueprint to create some type of product—the Arctic Crest Sherpa is the only fleece you’ll want to wear. Designed to mimic polar bear fur, it not only uses body heat to keep you warm, but also harnesses solar power with the brand’s unique Omni-Heat Arctic insulation. The plush fleece-lined hood and collar keep you toasty, while zippered chest and hand pockets secure your essentials. Testers loved the Arctic Crest Sherpa’s excellent versatility. They wore it as a midlayer on cold days, as a top layer for après-ski festivities, and pretty much never took it off.
Stio Men’s Basis PeakWool Midweight Half Zip
The secret to a successful outdoor après-ski tailgate is staying warm. After working up a sweat on the slopes, you'll likely find yourself standing on frozen ground—likely with a cold brew or cocktail in hand. That’s when your choice of base layer becomes critical. Wear something that soaked up sweat during the ski day, and you’ll be freezing in no time. Enter the Stio Basis Midweight Merino Half-Zip, designed for all-day performance both on and off the slopes. Testers around the globe rave about Stio’s proprietary PeakWool fabric, which combines soft Tencel and nylon with 56 percent merino wool. This is one of the most comfortable base layers we've experienced, and unlike synthetic options, merino wool doesn’t trap odors—a major plus when après-ski turns cozy. Match it with the Stio Basis Midweight Tight ($139).
Skida Alpine Hat
You wear a helmet when you ski, but don’t forget your hat for the tailgater. It not only keeps your head warm, but is a way to express your individuality and devil-may-care personality. Skida adds the hip factor to any outfit. The Vermont-based brand does its own design, cutting and sewing. They also are the headwear sponsor for the U.S. Olympic team and a favorite of freeriders worldwide. Pick your vibrant print, and don’t forget a fun neck gaiter and retro headband. The cozy mid-weight fleece Skida Alpine Hat wicks moisture, cuts the wind, and adds that touch of heat you need when the sun sets—and the party is just starting.
Hanson of Sonoma Martini and Caviar Kit
You've meticulously planned the ultimate ski weekend. While you can’t control the snow, you can ensure your après-ski celebration is nothing short of legendary. Indulge yourself and your ski companion with an ice-cold martini and a touch of exquisite caviar. The elegant Hanson of Sonoma Martini and Caviar Kit features a 750 ml bottle of the brand's small-batch vodka, a jar of Castelvetrano olives, and 30 grams of Bareii, Royal, or Kaluga Hybrid caviar. Complete with two engraved martini glasses and a Mother of Pearl caviar spoon, the kit offers everything you need to toast to your best powder day yet while elevating your après-ski festivities several notches.
Hog Island Oyster Co. BBQ Oyster Box
After an epic day on the slopes, upgrade your après-ski celebration with a touch of ocean-to-mountain flair. The Hog Island BBQ Oyster Box features 36 Sweetwater oysters that are sustainably cultivated using the traditional French rack-and-bag technique, and freshly harvested from the picturesque Tomales Bay (CA). You also get an 8-ounce container of tasty Chipotle Bourbon Butter that is a great addition to anything else you pop on the barbie. While a crisp white wine is a classic pairing, our testers found that shots of Alma del Jaguar Reposado Tequila ($65) truly enhance the experience. With notes of vanilla, honey, caramel, and orange zest, this tequila perfectly balances the cold, briny, sweet oysters. The tequila is made from 100% sustainably farmed highland blue weber agave sourced from the Feliciano Vivanco Distillery in Arandas, Jalisco, Los Altos (Mexico)—a match made in après-ski heaven. ?Salud!
Patagonia Provisions
Patagonia Provisions are a must-include for your outdoor adventure Go Bag, a surefire fix for ski munchies and killer après-ski hors d'oeuvres. Mix and match sustainably harvested mussels—think Lemon Herb and Spicy flavors that’ll ignite your taste buds—alongside some game-changing coconut curry sardines that are responsibly sourced from family-owned fishing boats in the Cantabrian Sea. Don’t forget the Roasted Garlic Spanish White Anchovies for that extra punch! Pair it all with Sourdough Sea Salt Crackers and Toasted Cheese Crackers, and you’ve got a spread that’s perfect for snow bunnies and hard chargers alike. It’s the ideal recipe for a legendary parking lot picnic and the ultimate solution for any ski snack attack.
Our Testing Process: Why You Should Trust Us
With thousands of pieces of ski and snowboard apparel and gear to sift through, including the latest après-ski items, our team of nine testers knows how to do their homework. Collectively, we’ll rack up more than 1,000 on-snow days in a given season just testing out gear to see if it lives up to its promise. Most of us have been testing apparel and gear for over 20 ski seasons. During this time, we've been privy to a range of après-ski traditions across North America and the European Alps to perfect our own post-ski rituals. It's as fun a process as it sounds.