If working in a ski resort has taught me anything, it’s that hitting the slopes for the first time can be pretty confusing. From knowing whether to buy or hire gear, which type of pass you need and how many lessons to book...there’s plenty to organise and if you aren’t well prepared, it can make the difference between an epic experience or a lame one.
I’m lucky, my first ever ski trip was organised by my school; all I had to do was show up and before I knew it, I was riding the stunning slopes of Vermont. I had so little interest in the planning, I couldn’t even tell you which resort we visited now! Ah to be a teenager again.**
So, in a bid to make it as easy for novices as it was for me, I’ve chatted with a few industry experts to create a definitive ‘top tips guide’ for getting you on the slopes in no time!
**I did later find out that we went to Stowe Resort in Vermont (not one to miss for fervent skiers; 116 runs and a guaranteed annual dumping of powder!)
CHOOSING YOUR SPORT
The ultimate question, should I Ski or Board? In order to help you answer it, I’ve spoken with lifetime Skier and now instructor, Rebecca for her advice:
“Broadly speaking, skiing is easier to pick up but takes a longer time to truly master, whereas snowboarding is tougher to initially grasp” (a.k.a you spend a lot of time on your butt those first few days!) “...but once you’ve got the hang of it then that’s you pretty set. Years ago snowboarding was definitely seen as the cooler sport however skiing has fully bounced back in popularity with skiers becoming more and more present in the terrain park and in the backcountry! In my personal opinion, there’s not much you can’t do on skis that you can do on a snowboard whereas there’s a few limitations to boarding such as having to unbuckle one foot from the binding every time you get on a lift and getting stuck on flat terrain without the help of ski poles. But I have colleagues who are very competent in both and prefer to snowboard as they say it’s much more fun! My main advice would simply be to give either one a go. Skiing and boarding are immensely fun sports and it is such a social day out. Even if you don’t fall in love with the sport itself you can still soak up the beautiful scenery and enjoy the well-deserved apres-ski drinks in the toasty ski chalet afterwards….what is not to like!?”
Well there you go. What is not to like when you put it like that!? Thanks Rebecca. Enough said.
WHICH RESORT DO I CHOOSE?
The resort you choose will largely come down to your budget. But all resorts have different things to offer. For first timers look for resorts with mostly Green and Red runs (or Blue for North America). Green are very gentle and easy slopes perfect for starting out. Red or Blue are intermediate but lots of people can ride these in their first week of skiing. If your snowboarding look out for a resort with a Magic Carpet or Tow Rope. This is a much easier and less daunting version of a Chairlift and a good way to gradually build your confidence.
HOW DO I START? DO I NEED A LIFT TICKET?
If you’re visiting a resort for downhill sports then you have to buy a Lift Ticket (otherwise known as an Area Day Pass). This is your access pass to the hills (whether using the lifts or not). If you’re a first timer, you’ll more than likely be booking into a few lessons which will include your lift ticket in the price. I asked our friendly instructor, Rebecca for her advice on lessons,
“Book lessons as early as possible to avoid disappointment as they fill up fast! Lessons can be expensive so if you’re not sure whether or not you will like it then start off with a single day group lesson to try it out. If that’s a success, then a group camp is a great way of progressing, (having the same instructor and same class mates over a few days) and makes it a bit less nerve wracking for some people. The sky’s the limit as to how many lessons you should take, I’m a qualified instructor but could absolutely benefit from a ton more, so really it depends on your budget and how often you plan on going skiing/boarding. I’d absolutely recommend taking lessons though, it is much safer than strapping on some skis and trying to figure it out yourself which is a hazard to not only yourself but to others around you! An instructor will check that your gear is in working order, show you how to put on your equipment, start off with the very basics such as how to stand on your ski/board and gradually teach you how to stop, turn and control your speed.”
As everyone is different there’s no minimum or maximum amount of lessons to have but be sure to start with at least two as often the first one will just be about getting your gear on and learning to feel comfortable on the snow. The second is where you build up some independence.
WHEN DO I GO?
Every mountain is different and with global warming it’s hard to say what the weather will do next, but generally for best conditions and POW-DAYS* in the Northern Hemisphere head out between mid Jan and mid Feb. It’s peak season so expect to pay premium rates. Late season is cheaper, but generally that’s because there’s less snow and more ice on the slopes; which can be tricky for even the most confident riders.
*I know, spoken like a real pro. POW meaning powder. Powder meaning fresh snow on a mountainside. Soft & fluffy stuff. Ideal conditions for fun!
WHAT DO I WEAR?
TO BUY OR TO HIRE? It’s easy to get carried away with the stylish winter gear when you’re planning your first winter trip. And of course, the desire to look hot AF for those sweet videos of you riding the slopes is tempting. But, chances are, this trip is already costing a pretty penny and you may never get to do it again! So stick to the essentials and hire whatever you can the first time round. I caught up with a Resort Retail Store Manager, and lifelong Boarder, Courtney, for some simple rules to help you out:
“Depending on where you are in the world will make a difference to the type of gear you need. Our resort is coastal, so we get lots of rain during the season, this means waterproof gear and quick drying base layers are essential”. Some resorts get wetter snow and others are drier but reach lower temperatures. It’s important to know what to expect from your chosen destination so that you can tailor your gear accordingly. You’ll either need more waterproofing, or more insulation. If you can’t figure it out, then don’t hesitate to email the resort and ask them.
TO BUY
Base Layers: “It’s important to remember that these are active sports, so you’re going to get sweaty beneath your outer layers, even though you’re in the snow. Your base layers need to keep you warm but also dry so choose wool or synthetic materials.”
Long Sleeved thermal top (hoodie over the top for colder days)
Thermal Leggings (never jeans!) - (snowboarders - it’s important to invest in fast drying leggings or to wear an additional layer as those first few sessions will be spent falling...a lot!)
Balaclava or Neck Warmer - Make sure your neck warmer or tube has breathable material to pull up over your face during colder spells.
Beanie / Warm Hat
Socks - thermal socks which are fast drying and come up to the knee
“Getting the right socks is crucial for Skiers. They need to be high as if they fall below your boot you’ll be uncomfortable in no time. Also, never double layer socks as this restricts circulation in your feet and will make them colder. Snowboarders don’t need to be as strict as the boots are softer and more comfortable”.
I recommend buying all your base layers ahead of your trip as resorts can be priced higher than off-mountain retailers.
Goggles - “The weather can change quickly on the mountain. It can be foggy, snowy or bright sunshine and you need to be able to see regardless of the conditions. Invest in a decent pair of goggles with a yellow tint. These will mean you still have visibility in low light as well as protecting you from the sun’s glare on bright days.”
Gloves - “Some people like gloves as they are better for dexterity especially Boarders who need to remove and reattach their bindings for the chairlift. I prefer mits as your fingers aren’t separated meaning they stay warmer. I often wear an additional glove liner on colder days or for evening rides. The most important thing for Boarders when it comes to gloves or mits, is that they have a good waterproof rating. Boarders fall a lot in the first few days so they’re your hands need extra protection from the ice and snow”.
Sun screen and lip balm - you may be on a cold mountain side but the sun can still be strong when reflecting off the snow. Make sure you have some sunscreen with you at all times.
And that’s it.
TO hire
You can hire everything else from the resort. Salopettes (ski pants), jacket, helmet, ski’s, boots and poles or boards boots and bindings. I like to have my own jacket but it’s not essential for first timers. If you’re keen, why not shop around for second hand jackets or borrow from a friend? In the interest of keeping this short, there’s heaps of articles out there to help you find the right one but a few key things to look for are: a hood big enough to fit around your helmet, pit zips for breathability, waterproof ratings and whether it has a snow skirt. When you fall down the last thing you want is snow flying up your back! Brrr.
FINAL STUFF YOU NEED TO KNOW
Remember that whilst skiing and snowboarding are so much fun they’re also physically demanding, extreme sports. Make sure you fuel your body. Stay hydrated and keep a snack in your jacket in case you need an energy boost. I recommend working on leg strengthening and conditioning ahead of time and be sure to stretch out your muscles at the start and end of each day.
Check the weather conditions before you head up for the day. Weather systems at high altitudes are unpredictable and sometimes can result in resort closure. If it’s good then get up there nice and early to beat the lines. Like the Highway Code, there’s an Alpine code and you should be aware of it before you ride. They’re put in place for the safety of yourself and others and not following them can result in being banned from the resort, or worse, seriously endangering lives.
See, told you there was a heap of information to get through! But the moment you shoop down a slope with the wind in your hair overlooking panoramic alpine views, it will be worth every effort. And remember, you’re on holiday so be sure to give yourself a break too! Most resorts have plenty more to offer, from tubing and tobogganing to restaurants and bars, be sure to check it all out!
I’ll be posting from a host of resorts in British Columbia this winter. If you want to hear more about my Alpine Adventures this season, along with other expert tips and tricks, then subscribe to our mailing list.
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