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The mountains are renowned for unpredictable weather, so having the right type of clothing is vital as you must be prepared for low temperatures, wind, snow or rain.
A Ski or Snowboard Jacket and Trousers:- The jacket and trousers should provide a weatherproof and breathable outer layer this will help to protect you form the elements, they can be either insulated, non-insulated or shell. You can always use the jacket as a winter coat after your holiday.
Thermal Underwear:- A very important peace of ski or snowboarding equipment they need to 'wick’ moisture away from the body, this will help keep you dry reducing the chance of getting cold. Make sure they are made from a synthetic fibre and NOT! from cotton.
A good pair of ski or snowboard gloves:- For someone skiing or snowboarding for the 1st time these are a must, as your hands come in frequent contact with the snow. Just like the jacket and trousers they should be waterproof, breathable and insulated.
A warm and comfortable hat :- With 25% of your body heat escaping through your head, it’s a crucial piece of mountain clothing.
Sunglasses or Goggles:- The sun's rays are reflected off the snow so full UV protection is absolutely, the question is which one should you take. Both if you can afford if not then goggles work better in snowy or overcast conditions (early season Dec – Feb), while sunglasses are better when it’s sunny later season (Feb- April).
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Mid Layers (Polo Neck Top) :- These form a second layer that helps to trap air between you and your ski or snowboarding jacket. This layer of air will then keep you warm. Traditional these have been made from cotton but more and more are now made from fleece as they help to absorb moisture.
Fleece or sweatshirt :- If you feel the cold or are going somewhere like North America or Canada an additional clothing layer can be advised. Something made from fleece is used more often as it is light, has excellent thermal properties and easy to carry in a small rucksack.
Thermal Ski or Snowboarding Socks :- Ski tubes are more popular for 1st timers as they as reasonably inexpensive, it is recommended that you take at least 3 or more pairs, so they can be changed regularly.
Sun cream and Lip salve :- You should make sure the sun cream and lip salve you buy is made specifically for use in the mountains anything made for the beach wont give you enough protection against sunburn as the sun’s strength at high altitude is very strong.
Lift pass holders :- A device that clips on to your ski or snowboard jacket as well as clipping on to you ski pass, useful for retaining expensive lift passes.
Ski Ties :- A pair of velcro ski ties can make life a lot easier. One goes around the tip of your skis and one around the bottom. They hold the skies together when carrying or storing. Write you name on them this will help identify hired skis.
Snow Boots or Apres Ski Boots :- These should be waterproof and have a good grip on the soles with thermal protection. The streets of a ski resort can be covered in snow and ice.
Helmets :- Becoming ever more popular a must for kids, they provide protection as well as warmth and peace of mind.
A small rucksack :- Especially useful if out on the slopes all day. They are ideal for carrying spare clothing, packed lunches a drink and camera.
And to help you enjoy your holiday…….
Before you go ..........
Take some lessons at your local dry ski slope. This will help familiarise yourself with the new equipment and help you get to grips with the basics before you get to resort.
Start some kind of light exercise program a few weeks/months before you go. This will help you to make the most of every day on the slopes.
Whilst you are there ..............
Drink plenty of water, you will be exercising at altitude which can lead to dehydration.
Remember to keep applying that sun cream.
Your hire boots shouldn’t hurt but if they do then exchange them as soon as possible.
This information is for guidance only and is not everything required for your snow sports holiday.
If you need any further information or advice why not pop along to our store in Cowbridge, where our staff will be only too happy to help.
Happy Holidays
NICOLA & SIMON
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