SHAPE UP
Get in shape, don't try to ski yourself into shape. You'll enjoy your skiing more if you're physically fit, and will be less prone to injury. More importantly, it helps you to have more fun.
SKI GEAR
Obtain proper equipment. Have your ski and snowboarding bindings correctly adjusted for your height weight and ability. You can hire boots, skis or snowboards at our recommended partner outlets.
WHAT TO WEAR
Proper gear is important; staying warm, comfortable and dry is paramount.
Recommended minimum for 1 week:
- Gloves x 1 pair
- Goggles and Sunglasses
- Headband x 1
- Long thermal underwear and vests x 2 sets
- Ski Boots (you can hire them)
- Ski Jacket x 1
- Ski Pants/Salopettes x 1
- Ski Socks x 3 pairs
- Sunscreen and Lipsalve
- Swimsuit! (Some chalets have hot tub and sauna)
- Turtlenecks, Ski Sweaters or Polar Fleece Top x 3
- Walking boots or "snow" boots
- Warm Hat or Helmet and peaked cap
- Apres ski clothes - casual and comfortable (bring slippers or socks as chalets operate a "no outdoor shoe" policy)
When buying skiwear, look for fabric that is water and wind resistant. Look for wind flaps to shield zippers, snug cuffs at wrists and ankles, collars that can be snuggled up to the chin and drawstrings that can be adjusted for comfort and keep wind out. Be sure to buy the best quality clothes and products you can afford.
Dress in layers. Multiple thin layering is better than one thick layer. For example, polypropylene or silk underwear (tops and bottoms) which feel good next to the skin, dry quickly, absorb sweat and keep you warm. Wear a turtleneck sweater and a jacket.
CHILDCARE
How can a parent be sure their child will be safe and happy, so that they can enjoy a day on the slopes? Parents should feel free to call ahead and ask questions about the resort day-care just as they would expect in a day-care situation at home.
Prepare your child ahead of time with where they will be going and what is going to happen. Be truthful, children are very perceptive. When the time comes, be firm and say "I'm leaving to go skiing", and then go. Don't just sneak out on your child.
Check pick up times and take a contact number.
Once you have asked the questions, encouraged your child, and calmed your parental nerves, go and have fun, don't feel guilty and most importantly DON'T BE LATE picking up your child.
SKI WITH CARE
Warm up before skiing with some simple stretching exercises. The all-important warm-up run prepares you mentally and physically for the day ahead.
Know your ability, respect your surroundings and stay on trails within your ability level. If you find yourself on a slope that exceeds your ability level, always leave your skis on and side step down the slope. Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride, and unload safely. Know when to call it a day. Most accidents and injuries occur at the end of the day when muscles are fatigued and reaction times slower.
Drink lots of water. Alcohol will dehydrate you and impair performance and good judgment. Save the toddy for apres ski. Don't forget the free bar waiting for you at some of the chalets!
Eat a good breakfast, and stop for lunch.
Lifts Stay alert in the lift queue; double or quad up to save everyone time, and be prepared to load when your turn comes. When riding any lift carry ski poles by shafts and keep ski tips up on chair lifts. Loose clothing and long hair are hazards on lifts.
Be courteous to your fellow skiers and boarders.
Control is the key to successful skiing/snowboarding. Be aware of your technique, the terrain and the skiers/snowboarders around you.
Be aware of other skiers Stop at the side of trails always in view; look uphill for oncoming skiers. Call out "on your right" or "on your left" when passing close. People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them. You must not stop where you obstruct a trail, or aren't visible from above. Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
Be prepared for any weather. Bring a headband or hat with you; 60% of heat loss is through the head. Wear gloves. Carry goggles. ALWAYS use sunscreen even on cloudy days.
Be aware of the snow conditions and how they can change. Begin a run slowly. Consult ski area map for slope difficulty.
Observe all posted signs and warnings on piste and lifts. Keep off closed Pistes and out of closed areas.
Ski with companions; its fun and remember to arrange a meeting place in case you get separated.
The best way to become a good skier or snowboarder is to take lessons from a qualified instructor.
Use proper equipment; check it often; wear well fitting boots "snug is the word"; adjust release bindings properly. Use ski brakes or other similar mechanical device to avoid runaway skis. Wear non-breakable sunglasses or goggles.
If your child is enrolled in ski school make sure they know the name of their instructor in case of separation. Instruct them to stop and ask for assistance if they get separated rather than try to find their own way down a mountain.
Make sure your child has their name, your name, telephone number and the address of their chalet clearly written down in a zipped pocket.
Ski helmets are a good idea; but remember you may have to raise your voice more to get their attention.
And don't forget skiing is meant above all to be fun.
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