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EQUIPMENT
SKIS
Shaped Skis - Shaped skis are the skis of today. Whatever level of skier you are, you will have an easier and better time learning to ski on shaped skis. Unlike conventional straight skis, the shaped ski is shorter and curvier, making it easier to turn and control. So how can you tell if your on a straight or shaped ski? Easy! Look at your ski - the shaped ski has an hourglass shape (wide at the tip of the ski, narrower in the middle and wide again at the back end). Straight skis are straight all the way from front to back.
SKI BOOTS
Bad Ski Boots - the main reason people stop skiing. Lets face it, when your feet hurt from being cramped or cold, it's uncomfortable.
Ski Boots will feel awkward your first time, so how can you tell if it's a good fit if they feel so big and heavy? A properly fitted ski boot should feel snug around the ankle. Your heels should not be able to slip up or down. Your boots should be snug around your calf muscles but not pinched and you should be able to wiggle your toes. Boots that are too tight can cause numbness, pain and cold feet. Take your time in trying on boots - different makes and models fit differently.Once you have found a good comfortable boot, try to lean forward so that your shin is pushing against the front of the boot. This motion is what helps you turn when skiing. If you can't get your weight forward, turning on skis will be difficult.
Tips for fixing cold feet:
-Stomp your feet while waiting in the lift lines - as the blood moves it warms your extremities.
-Loosen your boots a little bit.
-Wear one good pair of medium weight of socks.
-Do not stuff your pants inside of your boots.
-Never leave your boots in the trunk of your car or outside where they can get cold and damp.
-Put your boots in a boot dryer. If one is not available use the hand dryer in the bathroom.
SNOWBOARDING GEAR
There are several different styles of snowboard gear to choose from. Newbies to the sport of snowboarding should use an all-mountain freestyle board. Make sure the board you choose is the right size. On average, the board standing on its tail should come somewhere between your nose and chin and make sure boots do not hang over the edge of your board. After you have the equipment, the next step is figuring out your stance. Are you goofy (right foot forward) or regular (left foot forward)? How far should your feet be apart? Where on the board should you stand? What should the angle of the bindings be? For most beginners, a certified technician can set up your board to your comfort level. Just remember, as you become familiar with your board, your can change the setup to best match your particular riding style.
SKI POLES
Poles are simply used to help keep balance and to help prepare you for your next turn. Also excellent for pointing out other people and leaning up against. A few excellent tips - do not ski with your ski poles stuck straight out behind, or in front of you. Remember they are ski poles, not javelins.
BINDINGS
Bindings play a pivotal role in skiing. They are what keeps you attached to your ski when traveling downhill and release you from your ski when you fall. Bindings are set to skier classification, height, and weight and should only be set by a certified technician. Binding settings are very important, so don't fib about your height, weight or classification - the technician doesn't care how much you weigh, only that you'll be safe out there.
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If you are having any problems with your rental equipment, go back to the rental shop and ask one of the technicians to help you. Do not try to fix the problem yourself .
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