Skiing is everyone’s favorite holiday sport for a valid reason. No other sport in the world offers endless thrills, health benefits, and beautiful scenic views all in one go.
If you’re a first-time skier, consider these things before hitting the slopes:
Take it slow and easy
Most first-time skiers tend to go all out, only to end up getting hurt and injured. Remember, skiing is a sport that involves speed in unusual surroundings. While you do need a certain level of risk, don’t push yourself too hard on the first try. If you really want to enjoy the sport, focus on mastering proper technique instead of rushing your progress. Trust the process and spend the early few days learning the basics. This will let you assess your skills and get to know your environment better.
Get in shape
While there’s no weight requirement to enjoy skiing, being physically fit lets you ski better and have more fun. A pre-season cardio workout can help you strengthen your muscles and build endurance. Doing lots of stretching can also prepare your joints for rigorous skiing movements. Practicing yoga can improve your flexibility and reduce pain or stiffness when stretching.
Dress in layers
When it comes to ski clothing, every layer plays a specific role in keeping you warm and comfortable.
Skiers often use the three-layer strategy, which involves:
- Base Layer – absorbs sweat and traps body heat
- Mid Layer – usually a wool jumper or fleece that regulates body temperature
- Outer Layer – fully waterproof and windproof shell against snow and wind. Keep moisture off your second layer. This outer layer should also be breathable to allow moisture out.
Ski pants and jackets are crafted from waterproof and breathable fabric. That said, they don’t have to be bulky and drab all the time. Innovative designers like Willy Bogner has created pieces that are fun and stylish while providing maximum protection against the weather. You can find a lot of Bogner men’s ski pants for sale online.
Skiing clothing should always be dry after each session. Gloves and socks especially can end up damp by the end of a day. Make sure you leave them to dry above a radiator overnight. Using damp clothing from the day before will increase your risk of feeling chilly and uncomfortable quickly.
Rent your equipment
No matter how excited you are to try skiing, there’s no need for you to spend money on equipment just yet. Chances are, you could end up purchasing wrongly sized or mismatched gear.
In contrast, renting lets you try the sport first before investing in expensive equipment. Trying the equipment first in the field also gives you a clearer idea of what you need to look for in certain tools. You get to determine which materials or brands work for you. This will prevent you from wasting money on inappropriate gear should you decide to buy. Most rental shops also upgrade their equipment. This gives you instant access to the latest models, which is more practical than replacing your personal gear every season.
It’s never too late to learn how to ski. That said, sufficient preparation is a must. These measures will not only prevent injuries but also help you stay out longer and enjoy the sport better.
