Getting Ready for Ski Season
Finding Ski and Snowboard Deals and Organizing Gear
Can't wait for the ski season to begin? This article has ideas for those eager to hit the slopes even though the snow hasn't fallen yet.
The 2007/2008 ski season is still several months away, but just because the snow has yet to fall on the slopes doesn’t mean that one cannot start to get ready for the winter season.
Tis’ the Season for Bargains
Fall is often a time when stores attempt to clear out last season’s merchandise in order to prepare for the new season’s line of merchandise. This results in retailers making deep cuts in prices to sell ski and snowboard gear, or hold special sales. For instance, in Denver, CO there is a yearly event called SNIAGRAB, which is BARGAINS spelled backwards. The name should say it all. It’s a massive sale of ski equipment and has some great opportunities for those looking for a good deal on a pair of skis or a snowboard.
If traveling to Denver is not possible, then there are always great deals to be found on the internet with national or local outdoor retailers. The advantage is that one can scan a variety of merchandise from the comfort of one’s home. The disadvantage is that it is not possible to try on jackets, boots, or to handle the equipment.
Clean the Ski Gear out of the Closet
In preparation for ski season, it is a good idea to break out the boots, clothes, and boards for a cleaning and once-over inspection. Is that jacket getting full of holes? Do the skis need to be waxed and the edges sharpened? How many pairs of socks are really necessary for this season? Separate out stuff that won’t be used this year, and if they cannot be repaired donate the items to charity.
For the skis or board, take time to sharpen the edges and wax the boards to increase performance. A good ski shop has trained personnel that can do this for a fee.
If a ski helmet is not in the gear pile, then think about making the investment. Helmets are a common sight on the mountain now, and can go a long way towards protecting the head in the case of a sudden fall. Think it is not necessary to wear one? Just remember one has to worry less about their own ski abilities, rather it’s the abilities of others who are out their on the slopes.
Research on the Internet
Want to take a dream ski vacation this winter? Perhaps it’s a trip to Colorado to ski at one of the many resorts in the high mountains, or a heli-skiing adventure to British Columbia or Alaska. Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip or a day trip to a mountain closer to home, make sure to do the research. Get the necessary guidebooks, check out the websites, and plan the vacation time in advance. If the adventure involves backcountry skiing, know in advance how to use avalanche equipment and read snow conditions. This can be accomplished by reading and taking courses from a guide service that specializes in such training.
