The key to a good day on the slopes is to dress warmly and to make sure that your equipment is in order. It will make your day more enjoyable and safe, so read through the tips below to ensure that you have everything you need for Day 1.
StART WITH THE BASE(ICS)
Base layers are the first line of defence against cold weather. The layers should be synthetic, fleece or wool fabrics. Say no to cotton - once it gets a little damp, it will give you the chills. Try to avoid hoodies, they create bulk around the top of the jacket and can let cold air in! Brrrr!
HOW MANY LAYERS, YOU ASK?
It depends on each person, but having a bunch allows you to add or take off layers depending on the weather. We asked one of our instructors, Lauren, how many layers she normally wears on a ski day. See her go-to layers below:
The Base Layers (1-2)
"I start with a thin synthetic or wool base layer to wick away sweat and keep me warm. On a cold day, I'll add a second one for added warmth (and I have been known to add a third in exceptional circumstances). Same thing on the bottom."
The Mid Layer(s) (1-2)
"Next up, I'll add a fleece. The fleece is thicker and warmer than the base layers. On a cold day, I'll wear a vest as well to keep my core warm."
The Outer Layer (1)
"Then I top it all off with my ski jacket and snow pants. My outer layer is waterproof and breaks the wind, keeping me toasty on the inside."
Don't FORGET THE HEAD, NECK, FINGERS AND TOES
Now that you're all dressed up, it's time to focus on the extremities. They are the first things to get cold and they are key to keeping you safe. Let's start at the top:
Most importantly, you need a helmet. We require our members to wear helmets in our programs. Make sure the helmet is specifically designed for skiing and snowboarding. This means no bike helmets or hockey helmets. Helmets need to be correctly fitted for each skier or snowboarder.
Under your helmet, you'll want a balaclava or a thin hat to keep warm. You also need something to cover your exposed skin and neck, like a neck warmer or balaclava.
Goggles are essential to protect your eyes from the wind, sun and cold.
Next up, hands! Warm, waterproof mitts or gloves are a must. Mitts are warmer than gloves on cold days.
You can purchase disposable hand and toe warmers for cold days. They are available at sport stores and big box stores.
SNOWBOARDERS - Most snowboarding injuries are wrist injuries. Wrist guards go under your mitts and can help - along with proper falling techniques - prevent injuries.
Finally, the feet! Make sure you wear tall synthetic or wool socks. Again, no cotton! The socks should be the only thing in the ski or snowboard boot - don't tuck your pants into the boot. The snowpants should have a cuff that goes OVER the boot to seal everything in!
PRO TIP - Label all your belongings! Almost everyone has a pair of black mitts and we often find some in the bus at the end of the day. Label your belongings so we can help them find their way back to you.
SNACK ON THE GO
Skiing and snowboarding require energy, and it's important to pack some snacks to fuel you through the day. Keep a snack in your pocket so you can have it upon arrival at the ski hill, or whenever you need a boost. Please remember that we have a no-peanut policy.
Take a look below at longtime instructor Cam's favourite mountain snacks:
LET'S TALK ABOUT EQUIPMENT
Take your equipment to a ski and snowboard shop before the season to get them tuned up and verified by a qualified technician.
SKIERS - Bindings must be adjusted for the height, weight and ability of each individual. Have a qualified technician inspect and set the bindings for proper release. Do not adjust your own bindings.
For more information about purchasing ski and snowboard equipment, check out our buyer's guides:
PRO TIP - Label your child's skis and take a picture of them on your phone so you remember what they look like.
When the bus returns at the end of the day, please allow the bus staff to unload all the equipment out of the bins before grabbing your child's skis.
CHECK OUT OUR OTHER GUIDES
AT-HOME PREP FOR BEGINNER SKIERS
Spend 20 minutes helping your child get acquainted with their new equipment and ready for Day 1.
WHAT TO EXPECT & HOW TO PREPARE
This guide takes you through a typical day with Rod Roy. Read through it before Day 1 so you and your child know what to expect.