Marks & Spencer, the beloved British retailer famous for its knickers and Percy Pigs, is making a daring leap from the comfort of the home to the challenging peaks of the ski slopes. The high street giant has officially launched its first-ever technical skiwear collection, marking a significant expansion for its in-house activewear brand, Goodmove.
Engineering for the Elements
After months of dedicated development, Goodmove's new snow range has arrived, catering to women, men, and children. The collection directly addresses a common pitfall of high-street ski gear: the tendency to prioritise style over substance. For any skier, from a casual holidaymaker to a serious powder enthusiast, reliable kit is non-negotiable. Soaking wet clothing on a cold chairlift can ruin a day on the mountain, which is why M&S has focused heavily on technical, cold-weather engineering.
The products feel highly durable and surprisingly sleek, presented in a neutral palette of beige, black, and white. The standout Padded Reflective Ski Puffer Jacket (£130) is a prime example, featuring innovative water-repellent Stormwear technology. It boasts practical features usually found on gear costing hundreds more, including soft brushed fabric-lined pockets, a integrated goggle wipe, and a secure pass pocket.
Attention to Detail
The matching waterproof ski pants (£70) are built with equal rigour. They incorporate three layers of M&S's own waterproof and wind-resistant fabric, sealed seams, and a flattering high waist with adjustable braces. Internally, the design is brilliantly thoughtful, with elasticated gaiters to keep snow out of boots, abrasion-resistant kick guards, and adjustable cuffs.
Completing the core technical outfit are the clip-together lined thermal ski gloves (£25), which feature grip palms and touch-screen compatible finger pads. For those more interested in the après-ski than the downhill, the collection also includes on-trend slogan knits. Favourites include a cream and black ‘Le Ski’ roll neck (£46) and a monochrome crew neck with a printed listicle of French and Swiss resorts (£30).
A Winning Run for the High Street?
M&S appears to have thought of everything. This collection delivers heaps of functionality and aesthetic appeal that other low-cost, high-fashion ski ranges often lack. True to the brand's trusted reputation, it represents fantastic value.
The launch is strategically timed for the Northern Hemisphere ski season. With an estimated 1.5 million Brits heading to the slopes each year, M&S is poised to capture a significant market. Gaining the trust of seasoned skiers may be as challenging as tackling Austria's infamous Streif run, but with the quality demonstrated in this range, Sparks is well-equipped for the descent.
