By ALYSON LAMB
Snow style is shifting at Hotham and Falls Creek this winter, with skiers and snowboarders moving beyond matching sets and safe neutrals as nostalgic cuts, statement prints and rider-led brands shape the look of winter 2026.
For anyone wondering what to wear, where to shop, or which pieces are worth investing in before heading on the lifts, Tim Hall, senior manager retail and tental at Vail Australia, shares what is trending in 2026 and how to make sure style still works in alpine conditions.
“The overwhelming outfit trend continues toward early 2000s throwbacks, skate inspired looser outerwear and riders who are not afraid to dress with their own personal style,” Tim said.
While classic alpine styling and technical performance pieces remain strong, snow fashion is moving well beyond matching sets and safe neutrals.
“While most customers will get a neutral pant or jacket and jazz up their look with a contrasting alternate, we’re seeing the return of Real-Tree camo and some plaid which has already been popular early on in the season,” Tim said.
Rider-led brands are helping shape the shift, with Beyond Medals, Yuki Threads and Dialrange capturing the more expressive side of snow fashion.
For those who prefer something more understated, Hall said brands including Burton, XTM and Rojo are also delivering strong fits and style across this year’s ranges.
One of the easiest ways to bring a slope look together is through smart layering.
Mid-layer pieces are proving especially versatile this winter, offering warmth under a shell jacket before transitioning into après, village wear or off-mountain outfits.
For first-time snowgoers, however, Tim’s top recommendation is practical rather than purely fashion-led: buy a good pair of goggles.
“They generally can’t be rented, but will not only save your eyes from the harsh UV rays experienced at altitude, but will provide you with good visibility when the alpine conditions are at their harshest,” he said.
Those looking to pull together a winter look have plenty of options across both mountains.
At Hotham, Board Box has been refreshed as a one-stop shop inside Hotham Central, with a broad range covering statement pieces through to first-timer essentials.
For a more sophisticated alpine style, One Tree Sports combines chic technical ranges with expert bootfitting and ski hardware.
At Falls Creek, Board Lounge remains a must-visit for snowboarders, with a team ready to help riders find on-trend outerwear and hardware.
Skiers can head to Ski & Boot Co. in Village Bowl for ski hardware, technical outerwear, boot fitting and coffee from the in-store Eagle Espresso.
For Tim, the best advice is to shop in person.
“Try not to buy online. The only way you know you are going to love something or try it out before you buy it is by shopping in-store,” he said.