First Time Skiers and Snowboarders

What Do I Need to Take? What to Wear?

Are you Looking forward to your first Ski or Snowboard Holiday, but not really sure what you need to take with you or what to wear? 

At Coyoti The Ski and Snowboard Shop we are all here to help, we realise you want your first ski or snowboarding holiday to be as memorable as possible and the last thing you want is to get to the mountains and realise you have forgotten something.

Learning to snowboard

Here at Coyoti Ski and Snowboard Shop all our staff are highly trained, friendly and always willing to listen and help you with your queries you may have regarding your first time skiing or first time snowboarding holiday.

Please don't hesitate to call into our store which is located in Cowbridge, Nr Cardiff, South Wales CF71 7DF.

For more information or call us on 01446 775778 or email info@coyoti.com.

Our Helpful Guide

Learning to ski

Below is our helpful guide for first-time skiers or snowboarder’s which will help explain what you will need to think about taking with you on your first ski or snowboarding trip to the mountains.

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.

What should I be looking for in a Ski or Snowboard Jacket or Trousers: Always look for the word BREATHABLE. 
The jacket and trousers should provide a weatherproof and breathable outer layer this will help to protect you from the elements, they can be either insulated, non-insulated or shell. Buy something you like, that way you will use the jacket as a winter coat after your holiday.  
 
Your base layer  or underwear :
Skiing and snowboarding are very unique sports one minute you might be exercising followed by periods of time standing or sitting (when you are on ski lifts). So ski or snowboarding specific base layers need to 'wick’ or 'draw' moisture away from the body, helping you to keep dry, reducing the chance of getting cold. Make sure they are made from synthetic fibre and NOT! from cotton.
 
Ski or Snowboard gloves 
Good ski or snowboarding gloves 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 ski or snowboard helmet :
With the average skier or snowboarder travelling at over 30mph it makes sense to protect your head. Make sure you get the right size, and style for your head we offer a complimentary in-store measuring service. 

A warm and comfortable ski hat
 :
With 25% of your body heat escaping through your head, it’s a crucial piece of mountain clothing.
 
Goggles or Sunglasses 
The sun's rays are reflected off the snow so full UV protection is absolutely essential, the question is which one should you take. Both if you can afford them. 
*NOTE goggles work better in snowy or overcast conditions, while sunglasses are better on sunnier days.
 
 
Micro Fleece or Mid Layer :
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. Traditionally these have been made from cotton but more and more are now made from fleece as they help to wick moisture away from your skin.
 
Thermal Ski or Snowboarding Socks :
Ski tube socks 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 daily.  
 
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 won't give you enough protection against sunburn as the sun’s strength at high altitude is very strong.
 
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 skis together when carrying or storing. Write your 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.

A small rucksack : 
Especially useful if out on the slopes all day. They are ideal for carrying spare clothing, Goggles, Sunglasses, packed lunches a drink and camera.