Essential Skiing Advice for Newbies

I have skied 3 times and can I just say it’s one of the most freeing experiences ever! ‘m gliding across the mountain and it feels like flying through the air, it’s just so exhilarating, the adrenaline is unreal. But let’s be real, there are also a bunch of moments where I am wiped out flat on my bum and sliding the whole way down. Even on the greens, I am still getting used to it. You just have to embrace it, because it’s actually quite a funny experience to do it.

If you are a beginner skier like I was (I still am) here is what I wish I knew before my first run to make your experience smoother and more enjoyable!

Cranmore Mountain New Hampshire (vest becuase I was a trip leader lol) 

1. You Are Going to Fall — A LOT

Y’all omg falling hurts bad, but there is no way around it, it is literally part of the learning process. Take a breath, shake it off, and then you gotta keep it going. You will probably feel the soreness either ASAP or over the next few days especially on the shins from the boots and all the pitfalls but it will pass and will be like a funny story. Def try to stretch before and absolutely after to ease anything that feels odd and keep the flexibility.

2. The Right Ski Gear Makes a Difference

I’m from the Texas where it gets 100 degrees and the summer and I used to never wear layers but when it comes to this and anything in the north, there is so way to avoid it. So got to get your layers on and keep in mind you will probably get hot and can take it off later, but def better to go in with 3 and then take off as needed.

You should have a base, middle, and outer layer, I usually wear a zip up tight fitted jacket, turtleneck and a waterproof jacket to make sure you keep the snow out — tuck in your inner layers so if you fall, snow doesn’t get into your top layers. Try no to wear cotton as when it gets cold it stays cold for a while.

Gloves are non negotiable, your hands will freeze if you don’t have something covered. I say a good thick insulated waterproof one.

For goggles it’s not a necessity, unless you want fire pictures, but you only really need if its its really snowy or windy, then maybe grab some goggles or you can also opt for sunglasses they work perfectly too!

3. Take it Slow

Go at your own pace, start on the bunny slopes when you feel ready then work you way up, but you don’t need to be going down a double black diamond on your first day! Go at your own pace and make sure you have fun with it. I personally like to go on the long trains of the calm green ones, i don’t mind speed, i just want to glide, it’s whatever you prefer for your ride

Skiing is a great experience to try and having the apres-ski after festivities or sitting by the fire making s’mores. It’s just a homey feeling, it def takes time to get a hang of it, i’m still on greens my 3rd time (i went on a blue one and slid down the whole way down. It’s worth it.

If you are a beginner getting ready for your first ski trip, i hope these encouragements help you feel ready to take it on

Would you ever try skiing? Or if you already have, what’s your biggest beginner tip? Let me know in the comments!

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