Dress for Success
One of the best tips to make sure you’re comfortable in winter weather
is to layer your clothing. Start with a layer of polypropylene underwear,
and then use various layers of clothing for warmth and waterproof protection.
When you dress in layers it keeps you warm and dry when it’s wet and
cold and is easier to peel down as temperatures rise. Drink-up! Drink plenty
of fluids – The high altitude can seriously dehydrate you and lead
to headaches, but if you drink plenty of fluids on your way to the mountains
it can really help.
Don’t Get Burned!
For every 1,000 feet in altitude gain the sun’s intensity increases
by about 2.5%. So at Sugar Bowl’s base elevation of 7,000 feet the
sun effect is more than 17% stronger than at sea level. Another important
fact to remember is that the suns rays can burn you even on cloudy days,
so make sure you use plenty of SPF 15 or higher sunscreen protection and
reapply it liberally throughout the day. Don’t forget your ears and
the back of your neck! Use a quality pair of sunglasses that completely
cover your eyes, or bring goggles if you have them.
Get Fired Up!
It’s always a good idea to warm-up with a few simple stretching exercises
before you begin any physical activity. It’s especially important
in the cold. So limber up with a couple of stretches that work your arms,
legs, neck and back before you get started.
Why take a lesson?
A skilled instructor can do a lot to reduce the tensions associated with
learning a new snowsport. Instructors can get you on your way to skiing
or snowboarding in no time with a lot fewer bumps and bruises. There are
a lot of tricks of the trade that will make your learning process move
really quickly. Also, you get the best equipment for learning when you
rent and take a lesson. All resorts offers some great learn to ski or
snowboard packages that include your rental equipment, a beginner lift
ticket and your instruction.
Gear for Skiers
SKIS - Ya, they’re important. The parabolic or hour glass shape of
the new skis make them easier to turn. The new ski designs are shorter
and fatter than they’ve ever been before and make learning really
easy. BOOTS – Ski boots consist of a plastic outer shell with a soft
bladder inside. They should fit fairly snug with room to wiggle your toes.
BINDINGS – These connect your feet to your skis. All you have to
do is step in them to put ‘em on. Modern bindings will automatically
release when you fall to minimize the risk of getting hurt. POLES –
Those are the long sticks that skiers hold in their hands. They help you
balance and are used for pushing to gain speed.
Gear for Snowboarders
SNOWBOARD- The latest snowboards are light and very easy for beginners
to control. BOOTS – Snowboard boots are much like your regular snow
boots, but the are little stiffer to give you support on the hill. BINDINGS
– Some snowboard bindings you just step in a go and others you need
to strap your foot in with a simple fastening mechanism. POLES –
Only for those silly skiers.
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