The Return of Ski Season in Lebanon
Each winter, Lebanon’s mountain range transforms into a playground of snow-capped peaks and lively ski villages. Resorts like Mzaar Kfardebian, Faraya, and The Cedars offer both adventure and luxury — blending European alpine style with the country’s famously warm hospitality.
Ski season 2025 is expected to start strong by late December, with excellent snow conditions across Mount Lebanon. Whether you’re planning your first ski trip or returning for another season, preparation is everything. From the perfect jacket to the right pair of thermals, packing smart ensures you spend more time on the slopes and less time fighting the cold.
Creating the Perfect Ski Packing List
Layering is the heart of every successful ski outfit. Think of it as building your own personal climate control system, one that can handle Mzaar’s frosty 0°C mornings and Faraya’s sunny afternoon slopes equally well.
The three-layer system:
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Base Layer: Regulates your body’s temperature and keeps you dry.
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Mid Layer: Insulates and retains heat.
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Outer Layer: Shields you from wind, snow, and moisture.
Each layer should complement the next, tight but not restrictive, breathable yet protective. Done right, this system gives you freedom of movement without the bulk.
🏔️ Outer Layer: Your Shield Against the Elements
Your outer layer, jacket, pants, and gloves, faces the brunt of Lebanon’s mountain weather. A high-quality set not only protects you from snow and wind but also defines your ski style.
Ski Jacket
Lebanon’s ski resorts experience a mix of sun, snow, and coastal humidity, so opt for a jacket that balances waterproofing and breathability.
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Waterproof rating: at least 10,000 mm for Faraya and Mzaar conditions.
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Breathability rating: equal or above 10,000 g/m²/24h.
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Construction: 2-layer jackets are flexible and light; 3-layer ones are for extreme conditions.
Insulated jackets are perfect for beginners who spend more time on the lifts, while seasoned skiers may prefer shells with customizable layering underneath.
Fun fact: During peak February conditions, Mzaar’s upper slopes can reach wind chills of -5°C, so insulation is your best friend.
Ski Pants / Salopettes
The right ski trousers keep your lower body warm, dry, and flexible. In Lebanon, where temperatures often swing throughout the day, ventilation zippers are key.
Look for:
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Snow gaiters to block powder.
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Reinforced cuffs to prevent tearing from ski edges.
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Adjustable bibs or suspenders for comfort and mobility.
Women’s pants with slim-fit insulation offer warmth without adding bulk, while men might prefer shell styles paired with thermals for breathability.
Ski Gloves
Faraya’s wind and Mzaar’s altitude can make fingers go numb fast. Gloves need to balance dexterity, insulation, and grip.
Opt for:
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Waterproof membranes (GORE-TEX or similar).
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Pre-curved fingers for better pole handling.
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Touch-screen compatibility for on-the-go photos.
Mittens offer extra warmth but less flexibility; most locals use hybrid 3-finger gloves.
Tip: Always pack a second pair — gloves rarely dry overnight in chalet humidity.
🧣 Mid Layer: The Warmth Within
The mid layer is your insulating comfort zone — it holds warmth in while releasing excess moisture.
Jumpers & Fleece Tops
Fleece remains the unsung hero of ski layering. It’s lightweight, breathable, and perfect for Mzaar’s variable temperatures. For luxury warmth, merino wool or cashmere sweaters transition effortlessly from slope to après-ski dinner.
A technical down vest or synthetic jacket is also ideal as a mid layer for those extra-chilly mornings before sunrise runs.
Neck Warmers & Gaiters
Lebanon’s mountain winds can sting, especially around midday lifts. A soft merino wool gaiter or Buff-style neck tube shields your face from both cold air and UV reflection off the snow.
For high-speed skiers, balaclavas or Airhole masks with breathing vents prevent goggle fog and frost build-up.
🧤 Base Layer: Your Second Skin
If the base layer fails, everything fails. This is where comfort and performance truly start.
Thermal Tops & Leggings
For Lebanon’s slopes, choose medium-weight thermals. Temperatures fluctuate between 0–10°C in most areas, so you want something that insulates without overheating.
The best materials:
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Merino wool: natural, odor-resistant, and moisture-wicking.
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Synthetic polyester blends: affordable and quick-drying.
Avoid cotton at all costs — it traps sweat and leaves you chilled.
Note: ¾-length leggings stop above the boot line, avoiding pressure wrinkles inside ski boots.
Ski Socks
High-performance ski socks make a huge difference on long days. Thin, technical, and strategically padded socks prevent blisters while maintaining boot contact.
Merino-blend socks are ideal for Lebanon’s climate, warm enough for Mzaar mornings but breathable during sunny sessions.
🧳 Accessories: Small Details, Big Difference
Accessories often separate a comfortable day from a miserable one.
Essentials to pack:
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Sunglasses — the snow glare in Faraya is intense by noon.
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SPF stick & lip balm — snow reflects UV rays, even on cloudy days.
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Ear warmers / headbands — perfect for après-ski terraces.
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Hand & foot warmers — reusable USB-charged ones work best.
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Ski glove liners — lightweight silk or synthetic versions boost warmth.
If you’re skiing for more than 3 days, stash a compact travel humidifier in your chalet room, it helps your skin and gear dry faster overnight.
🎿 Gear & Equipment
Skis & Poles
Casual skiers can rent easily at the Mzaar Intercontinental rental shop or Faraya Village outlets. These shops maintain top-condition gear from brands like Rossignol, Salomon, and Atomic.
If you’re skiing multiple times per season, investing in your own gear becomes worthwhile, better fit, less time renting, and improved performance.
Ski Boots
Your boots define comfort and control. Properly fitted boots minimize fatigue and keep your feet warm. Choose models with custom heat-molded liners if possible. For Lebanese conditions, a flex index between 80–100 suits most recreational skiers.
Helmet & Goggles
Even in moderate terrain, a helmet is non-negotiable.
Look for MIPS-equipped helmets for added rotational protection and adjustable vents for Lebanon’s variable weather.
Pair them with photochromic or polarized goggles that adjust to shifting light between cloud and sun.
🛍️ Recommended Ski Brands (Shipped.io Selection)
| Category | Recommended Brands | Product Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Outerwear | The North Face, Perfect Moment, Columbia, Canada Goose | Summit Series Jacket, Aurora Ski Jacket |
| Base Layers | Smartwool, Icebreaker, Uniqlo HeatTech | Merino 250 Crew, HeatTech Ultra Warm |
| Mid Layers | Patagonia, Arc’teryx, Moncler | Nano Puff Vest, Fleece Pullover |
| Accessories | Oakley, UGG, Buff, Hestra | Prizm Goggles, Shearling Gloves, Merino Neck Tube |
| Gear | Dakine, TUMI, Smith, Salomon | Ski Roller Bag, AirTag Travel Set, S/Pro Boots |
Final Thoughts
Skiing in Lebanon’s Faraya and Mzaar is a one-of-a-kind experience — breathtaking peaks, gourmet mountain chalets, and the warmth of Lebanese hospitality. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skier, a well-curated packing list ensures you enjoy every moment on and off the slopes.
With Shipped.io, getting world-class ski gear to Lebanon is effortless, from luxury jackets to performance layers, everything you need for ski season 2025 can be delivered straight to your door.
