For those who are new to the slopes, a snow holiday can be a daunting experience. Not only are you trying to master an entirely new sport while wearing foreign equipment, you may not even be familiar with the lingo being tossed around.
However, don’t dismay. Even the pros need a few tips from time to time. Some essential tips have to do with what you should do prior to hit the slopes and – mainly – what gear you need to have with you. After all, it gets cold out there and the conditions aren’t always great. This means being prepared and having all the right gear is a must.
While there are countless new gadgets and gizmos created just for skiers and snowboarders, there are a few pieces of equipment that just can’t be beat.
The Right Helmet
When it comes to skiing vs. snowboarding, there is one factor these two sports have in common – the need for a great, protective helmet. This is especially true if you plan to bring your kids along. There are countless resorts that allow children under the ages of five and six to ski for free. While this makes it appealing to bring your little ones, you can’t take their safety – or your own – for granted.
Most resorts require you to have a great ski helmet on at all times. Wearing this essential piece of equipment can help to reduce the occurrence of head injuries from 30 to 50 percent. In fact, they may mean the difference between a minor and a serious injury. Prior to hitting the slopes make sure that you, your kids, and anyone else in your party has a helmet that fits properly.
Hand and Feet Warmers
While this may seem like something that is not an absolutely necessity, when you are out on the slopes, you are going to be glad you have them. This is especially true if you are one of those people who don’t take many breaks while out on the slopes. The good news is, many ski supply stores stock these for a pretty low cost, so you don’t have to pay much to keep your fingers and toes warm.
Goggles
It is absolutely essential that you get snow goggles before you go for snowboarding. When you take the time to find the best snowboarding goggles, they are going to last for several seasons. Also if you want to do any racing you’ll need to get your snowmobile racing gear before you come to the resort as it’s practically impossible to find anyone who rents that. However, it is essential that you keep the ski glasses in a protective, soft sack when you aren’t using them. Quality women ski goggles can help to prevent cases of snow blindness and ensure your vision remains good during hazy weather or storms. Also, they can help to protect your face from the often harsh elements present when out on the slopes. After all, the cold, stinging air can easily cause your face to become chapped.
While there are some ski resorts that offer you rental goggles, this is not always the best option. The fact is, you can’t always get a great fit and, while they are cleaned, you never know who wore them before you. If you want to ensure you have the best ski goggles, you need to purchase them prior to hitting the slopes and take care of them so you can use them for several seasons.
Water and Snacks
You may be wondering if you are reading the same list at this point. While you know you need water when participating in the hot sun, you may not be aware that it is also necessary while on the slopes. The fact is, you can easily become dehydrated while you are snowboarding and skiing. After all, your body is working overtime to adjust to the physical exertion. However, because it is so cold out, you may not be aware of how much you are sweating or that you are losing water just by breathing.
Also, when you exercise at high altitudes, it suppresses your appetite. This means you have to take periodic breaks for drinks and food while on the mountain. The fact is, once you do this you are going to have more energy to ensure you can continue having fun. If you don’t want to come down, off the mountain, you can take energy bars and small water bottles with you. The key is to use them, and use them often.
Ensure You Have Fun with the Right Gear
Regardless of how long you plan to stay on the slopes, it is essential to have the right gear with you. If you don’t have some of the items highlighted here, it is wise to go out and buy them prior to your first ski or snowboarding trip of the season. Doing so can help ensure that you can remain safe and have a great time while on the slopes.
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Great list! I would also add mittens if you get cold quickly compared to gloves and depending on WHERE you are going Gore-Tex gear is good for mountains that get that wet type of snow. You don’t want to feel like a drowned rat.