3 simple things you need to know about skiing

[stvalentine]

Hi Everybody,

If you've ever started something new for the first time you know it can be a frightening experience. This is especially true in trying something that has the risk of injury involved. The information here should ease your anxieties about getting started if you are just beginning skiing.



1- you need some equipment. Your equipment should be comfortable and suit your skill level.

2- Clothing is another option that you want to consider when going skiing. It's recommended that you dress in layers with the lowest layer having a fabric that will draw moisture away from your body. This will keep you warm and dry.

3- figure out when and where you plan to ski.

It can be scary when you first learn to ski but if you have the right equipment, a great place to ski, and a professional instructor you can have a great skiing experience.

Waiting for your comments;
stvalentine o

[zlathim]

Excellent topic stvalentine and welcome to Ski Talk.

Three great points that certainly do sum up the main points of getting ready to ski! Since you said that you were waiting for comments, I am going to expand a little on your three topics.

1- Your point about needing comfy equipment is spot on. MAny people new to the sport may choose to rent ski/boarding equipment instead of buying. Most resorts/ski hills have rental shops with good, up to date skis, boots, and poles that they will rent to you by the day or week.

2. I agree completely. A "wicking" type undergarment makes the experience much more comfortable. Layers is really the key though.

3. This one can be either the easiest or hardest for a new skier depending on geographic location. If you live in the northern US, you probably won't have to look too far to find a good ski hill. However if you live somewhere that mountains/snow don't exist, you have you work cut out for you. That is where the internet is useful!

Thats my two cents worth anyway. I hope others will resond with their ideas.

[Michael]

Excellent first post stvalentine and welcome to Talk Ski!

I agree with what your saying and it is a great summary.


1- Equipment - This definately essential! I had a very bad experience one year when I rented ski boots! At least now I have my own pair and have no fitting problems.

2- Clothing - I usually just wear a baselayer(tshirt etc/thermals) and a ski coat. If the conditions are good then the coat can usually be replaced with a hoodie or something similair!

3- Planning - Planning is definately essential, especially if you are a new skiier. You have to make sure that the lifts etc will be open for you to be able to get back to your side of the mountain.

[canadianskier]

I would recommend everyone buy their own boots, it is too personal a fit to be able to just jump into any old boot. They don't have to be the most expensive on the market either, just the best fitting.
I always wear a base layer and add from there. If its really cold I add alot. I often wear a wicking base and a quick dry shirt on most days, and I am pretty warm.
Taking a lesson, or going out with a guide will help people get their bearings on the mountain.
I have never met anyone who wasn't better for getting a lesson from an instructor. Better skier and better at just getting around the resort.

[snoskichk121]

A great ski instructor is a plus too!

[stvalentine]

turns, stops, jumps. You'll never be able to ski better if you can't do any of these. Start by pushing yourself little by little, for example, if you have the tendency to make wide, long turns, push yourself to make shorter quicker turns, this will allow you to be able to ski in smaller areas

[SkiCatDad]

Good topic...

I think as far as apparell goes, comfort is the most important. I got made fun of alot by my friends but I found a one piece waterproof suit that used to keep me warm and dry all day long. I'd wear long sleeve thermals underneath and that was enough, unless it was very cold, then I'd throw on a few more layers.

Proper Boots will save the day, you don't want boots that fit too tight or loose.

I'd say the key is wearing waterproof clothes - gloves etc.. As an East Coast skier, keeping dry is half the battle. The other half is learning how to maneuver in ice.

[mortabunt]

1. Poles are a euphemism for weapons.
2. Never get skis higher than your clavicle.
3. Never drink anything with caffeine before or durring a ski day, as it is very unpleasant to hold your bladder while charging down a mogulfield.

[yarddog313]

Lol, could poles be considered touron whackers?
Always carry a warming agent in your pack, for example, a little baileys goes a long way in the cup of coffee. Oh, avoid moguls if you have to pee, might do some tinkling in your thermals, but they will wick it away <G>

As far as what's listed above, spot on. I definitely have a dresser drawer with only ski clothes for different weather and conditions. Spending a little extra cash on a different array of clothing comes in really useful, even if it's only for a couple days a season. You never know what days are gonna be epic on the East Coast.

[Joshua]

Think an important point to make would be ,

Spend money wisely. if its your first time skiing try not to blow all your budget on moutain lunch stops and key rings ! a sandwhich , orange jucie and a nice view goes down just as well.

If your renting boots and skis just make sure you spend a good amount of time with the rental guy and make sure their as good as possible. no point in spending 5 mins and then having boots that crush your little pinkie , also always start the day with them slightly lose, then tighten them as u break them in on the first few slopes.

[RichH]

1. Having boots that fit properly are the most important thing. If they press in odd places then change them.
2. You'll get warm when you're skiing and you'll get cold on the lifts. Plan for this.
3. Pick a resort that is going to have space and lots of runs that are good for a beginner.

[sdstarr]

These may not be the three MOST IMPORTANT things, but these suggestions have helped me improve my skiing:

1. Ski hard snow soft, and soft snow hard.
2. Fortune favors the bold. Some of the worst crashes I've had came from skiing too cautiously.
3. Learn how to do a kick turn. You can get out of almost any situation if you master the kick turn.

[einzep]

hey there I'm 25 years old and i'm a high school teacher from new jersey, I'm going to salt lake city this winter. Being from New Jersey, young(= on a budget) and with a restricted schedule Dec26-jan2nd (because of work) I can't find anyone to come with me, so if you want to ski those dates and want to share the expenses of a hotel room and a car let me know, also welcome are questions and suggestions

[mortabunt]

I'm a 16 year old sophmore in high school going to heavenly with my dad.

[polishpilot]

And most important of all A HELMET!! My friend learned that the hard way when he got a concussion when going down the slope. Also a group of friends to keep you company and watch out for you.