One, Two, Ski

Skiing: Never tried it? Wouldn’t know where to begin? Don’t look good in Ski Pants? Fear not! Stephen Hibbert takes us gently by the hand and leads us through his ‘Beginner’s Guide to Skiing’.

Why go skiing?
One word: Excitement. There really is no other feeling that matches the sensations that overwhelm you when racing down a slope. The gathering speed, the cold mountain air in your face, the closeness to nature, the sense of achievement, the physical effort – I could go on, but I think you get the idea.

What equipment do I need?

Here is my list of what I take skiing:

• Skis
• Ski boots (if it’s your first time, rent boots and skis. No point spending a fortune until you know this is the sport for you)
• Ski bag (optional)
• Ski boot bag (optional)
• Duffle bag
• Goggles (ones that fit over glasses are available)
• Helmet
• Ski carrier (optional)
• Ski poles
• Ski lock
• Sunglasses
• Walkie-talkies (optional)

Clothing;

• Gloves or mittens (two pairs, in case one gets wet)
• Base layers (top and bottoms)
• Roll neck top
• Sweater and fleece
• Ski socks (plus spare pairs)
• Ski pants (insulated and waterproof)
• Ski jacket (insulated and waterproof)
• Hat, headband and helmet liner
• Neck gaiter

Tip: It’s an old adage, but dress in plenty of layers. Easier to take one off if you get too warm than it is to put one on if you get cold.

Accessories;

• Hand/foot warmers
• Lip balm
• Sun cream/wind block

“Gotta use your brain. It’s the most important part of your equipment.”
– Kevin Andrews & Warren Miller, Extreme Skiing.

Find a ski resort with a beginner’s terrain
Most ski resorts offer trails for beginners, but it might be worthwhile looking out for one that has plenty. There’s no point paying for an expert’s resort for your first time. Also, if your languages aren’t great, make sure they have English speaking instructors.

Rent skis and boots
Your skiing experience will be better if you rent skis and boots instead of borrowing a friend’s old pair of dated skis or boots. Even if you have a pair of old skis or boots, learning to ski on a modern pair of skis is not only safer than skiing on old skis, but, it will help you progress faster.

Raid your wardrobe for your first ski trip
There’s no need for expensive, fancy ski clothes your first time skiing. As long as you have a turtleneck, a sweater or a fleece jacket, and some kind of insulating pants (no denim, though) to wear under a winter jacket and waterproof snow pants, you should be warm enough. A pair of winter gloves is a good idea, too. When you know you like skiing, you can upgrade your wardrobe.

Take lessons
Even if your friends ski and want to teach you, investing in a ski lesson is necessary. You’ll get started off with a good basis of ski knowledge, and with continued lessons, you’ll be a great skier before you know it. Make sure to specify that you are a beginner skier with no (or little) experience on the slopes.

Food & Drink
Because you will be so excited about learning to ski, you may forget to drink all the water your body needs (honest!). Also, you will be using your body in new and unusual ways, so it may become tired and will need more fuel. Plan your meals, have snacks and a water bottle handy, and watch the alcohol intake.

Safety
Ski with caution and work hard to stay in control. During your lesson, make it a point to listen to your instructor, because later, you can practice what you’ve learned on your own time. However, don’t push yourself too hard – on your first day, it’s best to stick to terrain that you know you can handle. Be aware of what’s happening around you. Keep your eyes open.

The Ski Season
The traditional season runs from the end of November through until Easter (late April this year). Usually, the earlier you go the better the snow, but colder the weather. Later generally means more sun. Obviously, conditions vary greatly.

When is the cheapest time to go?
Skiing during the New Year tends to be the most expensive, as well as during any school holidays. If you can be flexible, avoid the last two weeks in February as that is when half-term holidays fall and resorts become extra busy. Therefore, all things considered, January is a perfect time to go skiing. It is comparatively cheap and quiet, with many people still recovering from overspending during Christmas. Later on in the season is probably the cheapest time to go skiing, but you always risk poor skiing conditions at this time. If you choose to go late in the season, it is recommended that you select a resort that is located at a high altitude – anything above 1500m is advised.

Après-ski
Had to briefly mention this. Après-ski is essentially the art of having a few drinks after a hard day on the slopes. The only advice I can think of that might be useful for beginners is that you don’t have to dress up. Think more warm jacket and boots rather than mini skirt and high heels. Trust me; you’ll thank me at the end of the night.

Some final thoughts …
Make sure your clothing will keep you warm and dry. Without that things can get a bit miserable.
Stick with it. I promise you it will become an important part of your life.
Final thought: Skiing is a dance, and the mountain always leads.