Skiing - Essentials For On or Off Piste!

Whether you're on your way to the white stuff for the first time, or you're a seasoned skiier, there's some things that must not be forgotten whether it be for your safety or simply your comfort.

It's surprising what a difference just a little bit in the way of warming-up before you go on the slopes can make; 30 minutes of stretching exercises loosens your muscles and lessens the aches at the end of the day.

The right gear is essential too, of course; skis, poles, boots - if you don't own them don't forget to rent them, but they must be the right fit or you're going to end up with extremely sore feet. Even your socks can make a difference; surprisingly, thinner socks can be better for comfort than thick ones.

Don't forget a backpack. A learner may think, 'What would I need one for?' And 'It's difficult enough staying on my feet without having that on my back!' but if there's any problems while you're up there, it could be a lifesaver - and save a broken bone or two if you land on it and it takes the punishment instead on you - if you've got a few emergency supplies in it.

It's going to get pretty cold out there (just in case you'd forgotten) and if you're intending to be going out all day you want to stay as warm as possible. You might think a hat's going to make you look like a kiddies' toy, but it's well-known that you lose most of your heat through the top of your head. There's some very funky ones about - who knows, you might even start a new fashion?

Snow can be pretty blinding with the sun shining down on it, in fact the UV rays on ski slopes can be over 35% stronger, so wearing sunglasses or goggles is a great form of protection. Flakes of snow hitting your eyes if you're not so lucky with the weather are another good reason to have them. Sunscreen - at least SPF 15 - is a good idea too; seems illogical, but true, that you can burn when you're freezing!

The type of gloves you wear is up to you; there's plenty of variety on the market, it's just a case of what you feel comfortable in. Leather perhaps, or those woolly ones that your Gran knitted you?

Ski helmets are becoming increasingly popular now, especially with the designs improving each year. They're more fashionable, lighter, tougher, and in some cases can be used for multiple activities such as cycling and climbing too. They are compulsory in competitive skiing and some manufacturers are being given a high profile by professional skiiers. Although most countries don't have legislation in place to make it compulsory to wear a helmet, it is well worth checking it out.

Have fun!

Mandy Thornton writes on ski vacations in her blog, Ski Vacation www.skivacationslopes.blogspot.com

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