Ski Help
Sorry to use the blog for my own personal gain, but I was hoping those skiers among us could help me out. I have no idea what I need to go skiing. Help so that I can go to Vail prepared :)
posted by Jen @ 5:21 PM
7 comments
7 Comments:
What is this blog for if not personal gain??
For Vail in December, you're gonna need:
1. a warm hat
2. waterproof gloves or mittens (I'm a big fan of mittens b/c I have chronically cold hands). They also sell little hand warmer thingys that you can activate like an ice pack and keep in your pocket for a while to warm your parts.
3. Big, bug eye or wrap sunglasses or goggles. The snow can get really bright if it's sunny, and you can burn your eyeballs. Also, since you're just starting out, make sure your eyewear is strapped to your head somehow, or you'll just end us chasing it every time you yardsale. Oh, and if you wear sunglasses, make sure they are shatterproof (that's the future mom in me, right there).
4. Long underwear. Obviously, you have been in the midwest long enough to figure out your own cold tolerance. But I recommend a good lightweight wicking layer for a base.
5. A sports bra. Amazingly, some folks forget that falling and skiing can be very bouncy work.
6. Waterproof pants and jacket. People used to ski in jeans with waterproof garters - this is not a good idea, especially in Vail, where you would get laughed at. You don't need anything fancy, just something that will keep your butt dry. I can't stress the importance of waterproofing enough. It's the difference between this being a one time ski trip and you guys wanting to do this ever again.
7. Socks. Wool is always a good choice, but anything that wicks is fine. They should be long enough to cover your calves (no shorties!). Thickness is up to you. Ski boots can be really cold if your feet are wet, though, so you might want to pack more than one pair and change them if you start getting numb toes.
8. Neck warmer/face covering - if its cold and blowy, you'll be very thankful not to have ice crystals slicing your face - although, it's in these conditions that I suggest newbie skiiers go and get a irish coffee at the lodge.
9. Fleece. Your best bet is always to dress in many layers - and bring some quarters for a locker at the lodge if you are too warm.
10. A snack that fits in your pocket. I take clif bars, one of my good friends takes beef jerky - it should just be something that doesn't melt or freeze and will keep you going if you are more than a half hour from the lodge.
Geez that was long. I shoulda also mentioned that a lot of ski places will rent ski suits and waterproof outer layers for a pretty reasonable amount. They also rent helmets if you are concerned about your noggin. I would just check the hill's website - they should have a rentals section that will tell you if that is available. Otherwise, I'm sure there is a ski shop in town that rents that kind of stuff.
I've only been downhill skiing twice (both times in high school) but I'll second everything Liz said. I rented everything from a ski shop in Dallas beforehand. I had something they called "bibs" which were sort of a combo of the waterproof shirt and pants that Liz mentioned. Those might not be en vogue anymore though.
I can't back Liz up on socks enough. I wore two pairs every time. Ski boots are big and hard and get really cold. Taking off ski boots at the end of a long day is one of the most orgasmic non-sex moments you'll ever experience.
So super incredibly helpful. I knew I could count on you guys!!!
when do you guys head to snowy land?
The trip is from Dec. 9th to the 15th.
The opening band is going to be the Counting Crows. It will be a whining-good time.
I didn't know skiing had an opening band. Or is Mr. Duritz playing just for you?
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