Will you be hitting the slopes for the first time this year? If you’re looking for tips for first-time skiers, you’re already on the right track.
Are you feeling nervous? Don’t worry, that’s normal. After all, you’re doing something you’ve never done before – whizzing down a mountainside with big wooden planks strapped to your feet.
Tips for First-Time Skiers
A little research can help you feel confident about taking that first plunge. Consider the following tips for an enjoyable experience.
1. Dress the Part
Wearing clothing that leaves you feeling wet and cold can make for a miserable day in the mountains. Pack well and dress well, and you’ll feel comfortable all day.
The key is dressing in layers. At the very least, you should have a base layer, a middle layer, and an outer layer.
Choose a base layer that is sweat-wicking to keep moisture away from your skin. The middle layer should be something warm, such as fleece or wool. The outer layer needs to be waterproof to keep those beneath it dry.
Don’t forget, your legs need layers too!
Finally, remember to bring sunscreen and lip moisturizer. Yes, you can (and will!) get a sunburn even in winter.
2. Get the Right Training
Ski lessons can be a valuable step to gaining both confidence and the right technique.
If you’ll be skiing with friends and family who are more experienced than you are, consider arriving a day or two early to get your ski lessons out of the way. Then, you’ll be able to enjoy the same slopes as the rest of your group. Never tackle a slope beyond your experience level, however, as this could result in injury.
3. Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to forget the need to drink plenty of fluids when the weather is cold. Skiing, however, requires a lot of exertion, and you will lose moisture via sweat. You may also want to pack simple snacks such as dried fruit, nuts, or granola bars. Together with water or sports drinks, these will keep you feeling energetic throughout the day.
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One part Lois Lane, one part Jimmy Olsen, one part Johnboy Walton, and a bit of that Clark Kent secret identity thing thrown in for good measure.
Cara Siera is a freelance writer and photographer with a passion for travel and exotic cuisine. Join Cara, her husband Marc, and one very spoiled German Shepherd on their next great adventure.