Basic Tip to Start

Tips for the Beginning Skier or Snowboarder

· Hat - if your head is warm, then the rest of your body will likely stay warm. You can lose 80% of your body heat through your head. The hat should also cover your ears.

· Waterproof gloves/mittens - for some people, mittens are the warmest. Many skiers and snowboarders have a pair of mittens and a pair of gloves.

· Goggles - protects eyes on cold, sunny and snowy days, and improves visibility in different levels of sunlight or shadows.

· Jacket/Parka - "Water resistant"! "Layering is key - a shell with a lining. If you warm you can always take clothes off. Looks don't matter if your are cold

· Synthetic synthetic materials help to wick moisture away from your skin. Wool is a second choice. Do not wear cotton as a base layer, because it holds moisture, which makes you cold. We say "cotton kills"!

· Additional clothing - recommend synthetic layers (i.e., fleece) because they are warm and less bulky. Aa SWM Pro shopgain, layering is key!

· Snow/Water resistant pants- very important, your first day will acquaint your butt with the snow. Keep it warm and dry. Bibs can be purchased for approximately $35 from Burlington Coat Factory, Dick's, and select SWM local professional partner shops
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· Socks - no cotton. You should wear only one pair, because socks should fit smoothly. After putting on your boots, a wrinkle in your sock can feel like a small particle between your eyelid and eye. Hurts like hell! Ask your SWM Pro or go to ensure you have the right type of socks, you should purchase them from a ski shop.

· Extra clothing - Not necessary. But if you sweat profusely, you can bring extra clothing (especially undergarments) to keep warm and feel fuzzy. Oh, and to look your best for Apres slopes party-time.

· Lip balm, face moisturizer & sun screen - YES! To protect your face from windburn (maintain kissable lips too!). And Mentholatum is recommended as a key SWM sponsor. Ask your SWM Pro about preferred products and pricing.

· Lunch - Buying food at the mountain can be brutal on your wallet. Bring your own food and look for the "brown-bag" area

· Snacks or energy bars - skiing is a good workout, especially for beginners. You should carry snacks on your person to nibble on for the purpose of maintaining your energy level.

· Water - Stay hydrated to maintain your energy level and body heat. Put a container of water in your lunch box or backpack.

· Ski equipment (skis, poles & boots) - Never Evers are provided with skis and boots as part of their first lesson. .

· Plan to ski at least three times before securing your own equipment. Renting is recommended for intermediates.
Only experts should consider buying. Buy a good pair of boots first for a firm fit with no hurt. Feet hurt; everything hurts!

· Helmet - Purchase of a well-fitting helmet sooner than later to guard in falls or unexpected encounters with other skiers or snowboarders. A head is a terrible thing to injure! And believe it or not, a good helmet is truly your warmest hat.

· Identification - just in case you might be a little unconscious (in more ways than one), and forget who you are. Your identification should also include the name of your ski club. It will get you to a friendly face faster.

· Consultation - connect with your Mountain Pro for the proper guidance before you buy anything for skiing snowboarding plus specifics on your local area of choice.