What to Wear to Skijoring in Banff: Outfit Ideas and Packing Guide
Your Guide for Skijoring Outfits at Banff’s SnowDays Festival
Not sure what to wear to Skijoring in Banff? You’re not alone. Skijoring is a unique winter event in Banff that combines rodeo culture with alpine sports, and the fashion reflects that mix.
With fur, fringe, ski layers, and Western details, it can be tricky to know what works for winter while still looking the part.
This is your complete guide to what to wear to Banff Skijoring.
Inside, you'll find a clear guide on what a Skijor outfit looks like and how to dress for January weather. You'll also find out where to shop in Banff and get a checklist to help you pack for your trip.
Whether you’re planning one standout outfit or have Skijor looks for a full weekend, this guide will help you feel confident, comfortable, and ready for the event.
What’s Inside:
- What is Skijoring in Banff, and what to expect when you visit
- Event Details: Dates, times, and the best place to watch Skijoring in Banff
- What is Skijor style, and how to achieve the look
- Where to get Skijoring style accessories and outfits in Banff
- A Skijor Style shopping list
- What to do in Banff after Skijoring
- How to make the most of your Skijoring trip in Banff
What Is Skijoring in Banff?
Think that cowboys and skiers don’t run in the same circles? Think again.
Every January, Banff Avenue becomes a snowy track where horses run by cheering crowds, and skiers and snowboarders launch off ramps. Western heritage meets winter sports in the most unexpected ways.
While the history of Skijoring traces back to both China and Scandinavia, the version experienced in Banff feels uniquely Canadian.
Photos show horses towing enthusiastic skiers in Banff National Park as early as the 1920s. It was part of the original Banff winter festival, and is a signature event of what’s known today as the SnowDays Festival.
When, Where, and How to Watch Skijoring in Banff?
2026 Banff Skijoring Details:
- Dates: Saturday, January 17 & Sunday, January 18
- Time: 2:00 – 3:15 p.m. each day
- Location: 200–300 block of Banff Avenue, with the High School Field as the main viewing area.
- Skijoring is a free and non-ticketed event
- The main viewing area is the Banff High School Field, which has a capacity limit
- Gates open at 12:30 p.m., with the pre-show starting at 1:00 p.m.
- Arrive early for the best views
- Each show runs for 75 minutes and includes a 15-minute intermission
- A half-time fashion show takes place during the intermission, with prizes up for grabs
- If the main viewing area reaches capacity, the event can still be watched indoors at local businesses that livestream the shows
Because the event spans two days, staying overnight in Banff allows you to experience much more than just the races.
You’ll have time to explore SnowNights, enjoy après-Skijoring events, compare how riders perform from one day to the next, and fully soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.
An overnight stay gives you the chance to see it all and enjoy Skijoring as part of a complete Banff winter weekend.
What to Wear to Skijoring & What Skijor Style Looks Like?
Skijor style blends Western fashion with bold winter elements. There’s no “right or wrong” way to dress for the occasion, but there is definitely a vibe. You’ll want to capture when building your outfit.
Before anything else, it’s important to dress for the conditions. In mid-January, Banff typically sees daytime temperatures hovering around –5°C to –15°C, and it can feel colder when you factor in wind and long stretches of standing outdoors.
Staying warm should be prioritized just as much as style because the best outfit is the one you can actually enjoy wearing for the full event.
Western staples are a big part of Skijor Style; think cowboy boots, wide-brim hats, fringe details, and denim. Maximalist winter fashion is the other half of Skijor Style with vintage or faux-fur coats, bold knitwear, retro ski and thermal layers, toasty mittens and boots to keep you warm throughout the whole day.
The easiest way to approach it is to think in layers:
Layer One: A thermal base.
This is your foundation and the most important layer for warmth.
Thermal tops and bottoms help regulate body temperature and make everything layered on top more comfortable.
Layer Two: Your core outfit.
This is where you can start having fun with it.
Denim jeans, Western-inspired pants, or ski pants all work here, depending on whether you’re leaning more cowboy or alpine. This layer should be warm but flexible enough to move around in.
Layer Three: Your statement outer layer.
The showstopper.
A dramatic vintage fur or faux-fur coat, Pendleton patterned wool jackets, fringe layers, or bold winter outerwear. This layer does the visual heavy lifting while adding serious insulation.
Layer Four: The finishing touch.
Finish with western flair accessories.
A cowboy hat paired with earmuffs keeps the look on theme while protecting against the cold. Jewelry like Bolo ties, statement belts, and big buckles are encouraged.
The Skijoring look is playful, unapologetic, and intentionally bold. This is not a time to blend in. Take risks, have fun, and if you need help getting started, there’s a Skijoring packing list waiting for you below.
Bonus: Indigenous-made accessories
If you’re looking to add something truly unique to your Skijor outfit, shopping for Indigenous-made accessories is a thoughtful way to incorporate one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the region’s creativity and craftsmanship.
Banff is located on the ancestral homelands and traditional territories of Indigenous peoples, including the Îyârhe Nakoda Nations, the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Rocky View District of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government.
So, Indigenous-made accessories, such as beaded earrings, moccasins, cuffs and pins, are more than just beautiful finishing touches; they add depth and originality, while honouring the people and traditions that continue to shape this region.
Where to Shop for Your Skijoring Outfit in Banff
Everything you’ll need to style a Skijoring look can be found in Banff.
Shopping while you’re on your trip allows you to adapt to the weather, find unique pieces you won’t see anywhere elsewhere, and support local businesses that are part of the community year-round.
Banff Avenue and Bear Street are lined with shops, making it easy to move from store to store while building your outfit. Within a few blocks, you’ll find a wide range of retailers, from big-name brands offering technical outerwear and winter essentials, to locally owned boutiques featuring Western wear, vintage finds, Canadian-made goods, and one-of-a-kind accessories.
Whether you’re starting your Skijoring outfit from scratch or looking to add a few statement pieces to elevate what you already own, Banff’s shopping scene makes it easy to pull it all together.
Here's a list of local businesses that have plenty of pieces that are ideal for building a Skijor-inspired look:
Alberta Boot Company Outfitter
Alberta Boot Company Outfitters is known for its craftsmanship and authentic Western wear, offering pieces that feel timeless and built to last. This is where you can invest in items you’ll wear long after Skijoring weekend has passed.
If you’re looking for an iconic Canadian piece to take home as a reminder of your time in Banff, a pair of leather cowboy boots, like The Janet, is a great place to start. They pair just as easily with denim and fringe as they do with winter layers, making them endlessly versatile.
The shop also carries classic Western hats, belts, denim, and high-quality fur jackets and vests that reflect Western heritage and Canadian craftsmanship.
House of Angelica
This locally loved boutique in the heart of Banff carries pieces from Canadian, Australian, American, and European designers. All with quality and style in front of mind.
Their selection ranges from bold outerwear and statement knitwear to accessories and elevated basics that feel special.
The staff here are known for being friendly and helpful, ready to offer styling tips if you’re unsure where to start. You’ll likely find the centrepiece of your outfit here and build everything else around it.
The flared knit Elodie Trousers are a great colourful option: on-trend, comfortable, with a silhouette that moves well and pairs effortlessly with a cowboy boot.
Last Temptation Vintage
Last Temptation Vintage is a great shop to add flair to a Skijoring outfit without spending a fortune.
The shop specializes in vintage clothing and accessories, with a large selection of well-loved pieces. The vibe leans on retro, with plenty of early ’80s influence throughout the store.
This is a good place to look for vintage ski layers, textured knits, and outerwear that works well when paired with Western staples. It’s also one of the better spots in town to find vintage fur, whether that’s a full-length coat or a shorter layer that adds warmth without overwhelming the outfit.
The inventory here is plentiful, so it’s worth setting aside time to browse. Shopping at Last Temptation Vintage is more about sifting through racks than walking in for one specific item, but that’s part of the fun.
It’s where you’re most likely to find something no one else will be wearing. It’s a great stop for anyone who loves the thrill of the find and wants to walk away with something truly one of a kind.
The Trail Rider
While other stores focus on statement pieces and layers, this spot specializes in Western-inspired accessories and practical extras that enhance your look.
Browse through items like bolo ties, belts, and small leather goods that add subtle Western character. Ask the staff to help accessorize a hat with a chain or feathers, or both!
The Trail Rider also carries “Banff, Canada” belt buckles that are made exclusively for the store. An easy way to incorporate a destination-specific detail into your outfit and have an authentic keepsake to remind you of your travels.
Beyond the shop, Banff Trail Riders is one of the oldest guiding companies in the region, with roots dating back to the 1960s, adding an extra layer of history and authenticity to the pieces found here.
Banff Trading Post
Fashion can be a meaningful way to engage with culture, especially when you’re gearing up for Skijor and want your accessories to reflect intention as much as style.
Explore the Banff Trading Post for limited-edition beaded garments, moccasins and other handcrafted pieces made with heart, soul and attention to detail by the Stoney Nakoda First Nation, and other Indigenous communities from across Canada.
Cultural appreciation means choosing authentic pieces by Indigenous artists and Indigenous-owned businesses, learning about the maker, and understanding the story behind what you’re wearing.
Finding unique accessories at the Banff Trading post and other local shops supports Indigenous artists and celebrates culture through creativity, rather than borrowing symbols without context.
What to Pack for Skijoring: Your Outfit Checklist
Here’s your go‑to checklist to make packing for Skijoring in Banff easier. Use it while prepping at home or as a shopping list once you arrive. It covers every layer you’ll need, just snap a photo and you’re ready to go.
Western Layer
- Cowboy boots
- Wide-brim Western hat or felt cowboy hat
- Denim shirt and pants
- Anything with fringe
Winter Layer
- Thermal fleece long sleeve shirt and pants
- Vintage Fur or faux-fur coat (cropped or full-length, depending on your style)
- Ski jacket or retro winter outerwear
- Heated vest
- Winter pants
- Knitwear or textured sweaters
- Warm mittens or gloves
- Wool or heated socks
- Hand warmers
- Snow-ready boots (if not wearing cowboy boots all day)
- Scarf or neck warmer
- Earmuffs
- Toque or fur hat
Accessories That Pull It All Together
- Bolo tie
- Gold, silver and turquoise jewelry
- Statement belt or buckle
- Vintage or denim purse/crossbody bag with fringe
- Ski goggles or sunglasses
What to Do in Banff After Skijoring
Once the Skijor crowds leave, the Après Skijoring tradition is to dunk fresh bread into cheese with a fondue dinner.
The Grizzly House is an excellent Banff institution founded in the late 1960s. This long-standing restaurant specializes in exotic menu items, interactive fondue and hot rock dinners, and it’s the perfect way to cap off a Skijoring afternoon. And conveniently located right on Banff Ave.
Or you can try the Fondue Happy Hour at Bluebird. This wood-fired steakhouse has classic Swiss-style Fondue to share.
There are also plenty of exclusive dining events, nighttime activities, and après-style to explore after dark as part of Banff’s SnowNights festivities.
Explore what’s happening in the evenings and plan your nights around the SnowDays Festival.
Get the Most out of Your Skijoring Weekend in Banff
The best Skijoring outfits balance practicality with personality. Warmth and comfort lay the foundation, while Western heritage and authentic Indigenous accents bring the look to life.
When packing for a Skijoring weekend, think in terms of versatility and layers.
Bring pieces that can transition from daytime spectating to dinner out: thermal bases that work under denim, statement outerwear that doubles as eveningwear, and footwear that’s warm enough for standing outdoors but still stylish indoors.
Having one standout coat and rotating accessories is often more effective than packing multiple full outfits.
Between the walkable shopping streets, long-standing local businesses, and après traditions like fondue, Banff makes it easy to turn Skijoring into a full weekend ritual.
Come prepared, shop local, stay warm, and don’t be afraid to stand out.
Stay up to date on Banff’s Skijoring event, as well as all of the SnowDays Festival happenings.