Chasing snow: where to ski when it’s summer here?
Off-season winter? It’s an adventure that goes against the grain, but not when you keep a curious mind, a ready-to-go bag, and a deep craving for fresh tracks while the pavement back home heats up under the wheels of summer bikes.
There’s something undeniably tempting about heading into winter while everyone else is switching to patio mode. A refreshing escape, slightly offbeat, and full of daydreams. A high-altitude getaway to the other side of the world (or almost), where you find yourself clicking into your skis again while flowers bloom in Québec.
With the right gear in your bag - lightweight, practical, multifunctional - you’re ready to ski against the current, well-equipped and wide open to the adventure. Who’s in?
Where to find snow while it’s summer in our part of the World? Here are a few destinations where winter still awaits, even when the thermometer is rising at home:
New Zealand – The Southern Alps
From Queenstown to Wanaka, resorts like Treble Cone and Cardrona welcome skiers from June through September. Think Lord of the Rings landscapes and a laid-back vibe that’ll make you want to stay longer than planned.
- Perfect for: combining ski time with a scenic road trip.
- Pack: a NOPé overhood and a lightweight tube to block those chilly mountain winds.
Chile – The Andes
Iconic resorts like Portillo, Valle Nevado, and La Parva serve up epic slopes and reliable snow well into September.
- Perfect for: powder hounds dreaming of turns and empanadas.
- Pack: quick-dry gear like our polar tubes and a breathable mid-layer.
Argentina – Bariloche and Cerro Catedral
A bit more boho than Chile, with a strong mountain culture and relaxed après-ski scene.
- Perfect for: soulful skiers and maté drinkers who take their time at mountain huts.
- Pack: a cozy hood for summit breaks (and that effortless photo-ready look).
Switzerland – The Zermatt Glacier
Even in the middle of summer, you can ski on the Matterhorn Glacier. Pros train here, but public runs are open for early-morning laps before the high sun kicks in.
- Perfect for: early risers and high-altitude lovers.
- Pack: the Fjord overhood – warm, windproof, and ideal for -2°C mornings.
France – Les 2 Alpes
From late June to August, summer skiing is possible on this glacier sitting over 3000 metres up. It’s short, but iconic enough to make the bucket list.
- Perfect for: skiing in the morning, hiking in the afternoon.
- Pack: multi-purpose gear like our bamboo tube that doubles as a headband or neck gaiter.
USA – Mount Hood, Oregon
Yes, summer skiing exists in the US too! Mount Hood’s Palmer Glacier is open through August. Several national teams train here, but public runs are available too. A unique vibe where Pacific Northwest forests meet endless snow.
- Perfect for: a winter-style West Coast trip just hours from Portland.
- Pack: your overhood (glacier winds are real!) and a light tube for smooth transitions from trail to chill.
Pack light, glide far
One of the keys to an epic off-season ski trip is a well-prepped bag. You don’t need your entire wardrobe—just the right pieces.
NOPé essentials for your suitcase:
- The overhood: Designed to fit over a ski helmet, it keeps your head warm, blocks the wind, and dries fast. One item, many uses: wear it on the slopes, during hikes, or around the fire.
- Polar or Bamboo Tube: Neck warmer, headband, makeshift beanie… this small item makes a big difference in changing conditions.
- A Lightweight Technical Layer: Combine with your accessories to stay at the right temp—without overheating.
So, ready to go? Wherever you head, remember: winter is a mindset as much as it is a season. And with the right gear, you can carry it with you, wherever the snow calls.
Chasing snow, who's in?
