Friday, April 29, 2011

Ski Equipment Must Haves


Challenge Ski Motivational PosterWhen you decide that skiing is something you want to pursue and you really enjoy it, you may want to purchase the right ski equipment to explore more. The following will help you decide what ski equipment you will need to have in order to hit the slopes. It is important to know that you do not need top of the line equipment like the experts and you do not need to spend thousands of dollars on equipment for your new sport.  You want simple safe equipment that will allow you to have fun!
Kwik Tek S-1100 Adult Combo Ski with Bindings (67-Inches)
The first thing you’ll want to do is choose some skis.  These, of course, depend upon the type of skiing you plan to do and a ski shop can help you decide which ones you will need.  Just be careful that you are not convinced that you must have top of the line in order to enjoy skiing. You can still ski down the slopes or go cross-country without breaking the bank.
Gabel Team Alpine Ski Poles, Silver, 54-Inch
Head 2008 Edge+ 11 ski boots / orange 25.0 - US 7.0Make sure you purchase your ski poles in a size that is right for you and one that is not too heavy either. Along with your skis, you’ll need a pair of ski boots that are a good fit for your foot, as well as your expertise on the slopes.  These come in several styles, such as front-open, rear-open, and both front and rear.  For beginners, you will need a more flexible boot so make sure you let the salesperson know whether you are a beginner or advanced skier.  

Liquid Image Summit Series Snow Board / Ski HD Digital Video Camera Goggle (White)The helmet is so important as it will protect you from harm should you have an accident on the slopes.  The helmet should fit snug against you head and should not be too loose.  The ski goggles will protect your eyes from the sun, wind, and snow should fit comfortably over your helmet.

Clothing is also a very important purchase you will need to make. The ski apparel you choose should protect you from the cold while allowing you freedom of movement.  There are a wide variety of styles and materials you can choose from.  However, the most important thing to remember is to purchase ski apparel that will allow you to stay warm in the cold temperatures on the slopes.

One Piece Ski Extreme Snow Suit Winter Coat Jacket Parka All SizeCotton is not preferred for skiing as it will trap in moisture and cool your skin down whether you get wet or sweat. The best material for skiing apparel is a material made from polyester because it is light. Most apparel will come in layers which will allow you to keep the moisture away from your body and protect you from the cold.

Remember, if you can’t purchase all of the necessary equipment for your skiing trip all at once, you can rent almost any equipment you need so you can still enjoy skiing.  Just make sure it fits you and your level of expertise. Happy skiing!

Ski Trip Must Haves

When you and your family take your ski vacation, the last thing you want to be is cold. However, when you don’t buy the correct ski apparel that is exactly what will happen. When you have plans to go skiing, no matter how tough you think you are, you need to purchase the right ski apparel for your trip.
Many times when you are looking at ski apparel, it all looks so similar and you have difficulty choosing. The best tip when you plan to buy this type of clothing and outerwear is to get some pointers from current skiers. If anyone knows what kind of ski apparel is effective and which brand names are best at keeping the cold at bay, a person who is on the slopes often will be a great source of information.
A key to you ski apparel is layering. Thin, quick-drying layers are very important when you plan to venture out into the snow. If the top layer of your outfit becomes wet, there are several warm, dry layers between your skin and the cold conditions.
Here is a checklist of ski apparel items you should consider buying for your skiing trip:
Full Throttle Youth Rapid Dry Sport VestA jacket and A pair of pants
Summit Ski/Snowboard Pants for MenBreathable items are best because they dry quicker.Waterproof and insulated, to help keep the cold and melted snow out.


Duofold Thermals Mid-Weight Youth Long Sleeve Crew, XL-Winter White

Duofold Expedition 2 Layer Long Sleeve Crew Womens Extra LargeA pair of  long underwearThis is the first layer of defense against the cold, so make sure you get a pair that fits nice and comfortably. Avoid itchy, as your trip would not be as enjoyable if you are constantly scratching. Moisture wicking, which simply means “A piece of material that conveys liquid by capillary action”.





Youngstown Glove 05-3430-80-L Waterproof Gauntlet XT Performance Glove Large, Black
Thorlo Unisex Thick Cushion Ski Sock, Black, X-LargeA pair of gloves Waterproof and lined for warmth. A pair of socks - insulated and moisture wicking 


Oakley A Frame Snow Goggles(WHITE WITH TEXT/Fire Iridium Polarized)Wool Pinstripe Faux Fur Pilot Trapper Trooper Ski Hat Gray Large Extra Large


A warm hat and a pair of anti-fog goggles so vision is not impaired. 
Smith Optics Unisex Adult Holt Snow Sports Helmet (Matte Black, Large)Fleece Neck and face warmer and a Helmet . This item cannot be stressed enough! Helmets can and do save lives every skiing season! Don't leave without one

Outdoor Research Option Balaclava, Black, Small/Medium
Being prepared with the correct ski apparel can make the difference between a long and enjoyable vacation and a trip wasted. When you or your family members are cold and constantly complaining when you are out in the snow, no one will have any fun. Look at local sporting retailers, online skiing outlets and discount stores to compare and purchase ski apparel which will work for you!



Snowboarding "Indy Grab" Airborne 24x36 POSTERHowever, don’t just look for functional! Look for ski apparel fashions that say something about you! This outdoor clothing is no longer “frumpy” looking. All ski gear comes in a wide variety of colors, styles and materials. Bring a smile to your face when you purchase your ski apparel by buying something you will love to wear!

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Tips for the Best Family Ski Vacation


Ski VacationsIf you are looking for a great vacation, you may want to consider planning a great family ski vacation.  The fact is skiing is not that expensive and you’ll find a variety of resorts to choose from and many of them cater to families.  The only problem you will run into when planning your vacation will be choosing where you want to go and deciding which resort you want to take pleasure in.

When you have a family, there are many aspects you will want to look into before choosing where you will stay on your family ski vacation.  One of the most important aspects is whether or not the resort will offer ski instruction.  This is especially important if you have some younger members in your family that may need some learning before tackling the mighty slopes.  If you were to visit a resort that did not have instruction and some of the members need instruction, not everyone will enjoy their vacation as well as they could have.
CoPilot Ski Trainer Harness to Teach Beginners of All Ages to Ski 
Another important aspect of planning a family ski vacation is the slopes, trails, and lifts available to the skier.  If you have some beginner skiers and some advanced, you’ll want to make sure the resort has slopes and trails for both the beginner and expert.  The fact is there are many resorts that cater to all winter sports so if you have a snowboarder in your family, make sure you find one that has a snowboarding park for that member.  You’ll find that if you make sure something is available for everyone in your family, you’ll have a much better vacation.

Weekend Explorer Mammoth, CaliforniaThe lodging you choose is also important as no one spends every minute on the slopes.  Find one that may have other activities to choose from, such as horseback riding.  You’ll find many will include a variety of activities, as well as dining options and rooms.  Many resorts offer small cabins that include their own kitchens.  This will allow the family to enjoy their ski vacation in privacy. 

If you have small children, you may want to find a resort that has daycare available for the times you want to hit the slopes without your children.  Providing your children with a safe area to play with other kids will enhance your vacation time, as well as theirs.  Of course, pricing is important to, but you will find that most resorts that cater to the family are quite reasonably and will include daycare in the price or for a small fee.

Ski vacation destinationsIf you are planning a family ski vacation, the best place to start searching is online(Google and Bing).  Most resorts will have their own websites and will not only show you pricing of their resort, but pictures, as well.  Make sure you include your family in the decision making and get everyone’s input on where they would like to stay.  However, when choosing your destination for your family ski vacation, just make sure you do choose one that has something for everyone. Happy Skiing!