We understand that learning a new sport can be overwhelming, so to help make your first mountain experience enjoyable, we’ve put together this brief overview to help you navigate your first day on the slopes.
A Checklist
Make a checklist of the essential items you need, and check it before leaving for the resort. This will go a long way in preventing the need to replace forgotten items once you arrive at the slopes.
| SKIS | X | BASEBALL HAT | X |
| SNOWBOARD | LIP BALM | ||
| JACKET | HAIR TIES | ||
| BOOTS | SUNSCREEN | ||
| PANTS/BIBS | OUTER LAYER | ||
| POLES | PADS/GUARDS | ||
| GOGGLES | UNDER GARMENTS | ||
| GLOVES | SOCKS (NOT COTTON OR WOOL) | ||
| FACE MASK | MOISTURE WICKING | ||
| HELMET/CAP | SUNGLASSES | ||
| NECK GATOR/SCARF |
Before Your Adventure Begins
This section offers information to help you be well prepared for your day on the slopes. We also offer a few guidelines regarding strategies for refueling your body and maintaining your comfort level while on the mountain.
Dress in Layers
Wearing layers keeps you warmer and lets you adjust your clothing as the day gets warmer or colder. You can add or remove layers to remain comfortable. The two most important layers are the one closest to your skin and the one on the outside. The best underwear is absorbent and “wicks” perspiration away from your skin. The outermost layer, including pants, should be wind and water resistant. Clothes such as jeans or sweatpants absorb water, making you wet and cold. You can lose tremendous amounts of body heat through the top of your head. Wear, or carry, a hat at all times. We recommend that you do not layer when it comes to your socks. One pair of quality wicking socks will keep your feet nice and warm and free from blisters.
Always Wear Mittens or Gloves
Some prefer the added warmth of mittens, while others like the finger freedom of gloves. Whatever you prefer, make sure that your gloves are waterproof and always protect your hands from outside elements. Even on warm spring days, the snow is very abrasive to your bare skin.
Consider a Helmet
Many snowsports enthusiasts wear helmets. The best ones are light, comfortable, warm, and allow you to see and hear clearly. If you use one, you not only provide yourself added protection, you never have to worry about hats. Use a helmet especially designed for snowsports.
Wear Sunscreen and Lip Balm
In the higher elevations of the mountain environment, the sun’s rays are less filtered. Snow also reflects sun rays, making them even more intense. You can get severely sunburned very quickly. Wind will burn your skin, too. Even if you have darker skin, or believe you always tan instead of burn, use strong sunscreen anyway.
Goggles and Sunglasses
Infrared and ultraviolet rays can be extremely harmful to your eyes, especially at higher altitudes. Good quality sunglasses are an important investment. Wind, blowing snow, cold, and fog can also be very uncomfortable for your eyes. Goggles are every bit as important as sunglasses. Always take both with you, even if the day seems perfect. Remember, weather changes rapidly in the mountains. It’s easy to be caught unprepared.
Understand Your Fitness Level
Snow sports are for everyone – regardless of age, body type and fitness level. But it’s important to work within your own fitness level. Pace yourself, don’t venture too far from resting places and shelter, and don’t overdo it. Stay with companions who are close to you in ability and fitness. As you progress in your abilities, you may consider regular workouts to prepare for mountain adventures.
Warm Up and Warm Down
Cold weather tends to make your muscles more stiff and sluggish than normal. Allow yourself time to acclimate to the mountain environment before you head up-mountain. A few warm-up exercises and stretches pay big performance dividends. If you stay out in the cold long after you stop exercising, your muscles will stiffen quickly. You can get chilled, even leave yourself vulnerable to a sniffle. Keep moving until you can get inside, take off a few layers, and relax.
Drink Plenty of Water
Sun, wind, perspiration and altitude rob your body of fluids. In fact, you can become dehydrated long before you even feel thirsty. Stop frequently for water or carry it with you. Coffee, tea and soda don’t replenish your body fluids as well as juice or plain water.
Eat and Sleep Well
Breakfast truly is the most important meal of the day, so be sure not to skip it. And bring along a snack to refuel mid-morning. You will be happily hungry and tired after a day on the snow. Eating too heavily at lunch can leave you sluggish, but a hearty evening meal is a great way to replenish nutrients. Too much alcohol can make you groggy and dehydrated the next day. Never drink alcohol while engaging in sports. Your muscles and reactions will be much less responsive. A good night’s sleep should make you feel great.
Winterize Your Car
Before you travel to the mountain, make sure your car is ready for the colder alpine environment. Top off all fluids, including antifreeze and windshield washer fluid. Add lightweight winter oil if necessary. If your car is not equipped with snow tires, you should buy and carry a set of tire chains. In time you may want a rooftop rack to carry skis, snowboards or other snow toys. Make sure to zip your car keys into a secure pocket when you leave the car. As a back-up, give an extra set to someone else in your party.
Take a Lesson
This is the key to a great, successful day on the slopes. Like anything, you’ll improve most when you receive some guidance from a pro.