I want to talk about ski and snowboarding essentials on the blog today as it relates to one of my all-time favorite activities. I spend most of my winter weekends downhill skiing and started snowboarding as well as of last week. I was born in December in a very cold city so perhaps my love for snow was a part of me from the beginning. Mix snow with the thrill, challenge, and competitive nature of skiing – it’s no wonder I’m so in love with it. Living in BC my favorite mountain is undoubtedly world famous Whistler Blackcomb. Having skied there and other mountains for numerous seasons I have a standard set of gear that I wear and hardly even have to think about. Whether you’re brand new to the exciting world of alpine sports or use the word shred regularly in conversation, see below for my recommendations to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable on the slopes while you imagine you’re a part of Sochi 2014 (or maybe that’s just me).
Remember to also wear a waterproof and high SPF sunscreen, protect your lips, and pack a few snacks.
1. A ski/snowboard helmet (Sandbox)
2. Snow goggles (Oakley)
Tip for Asians: Find a pair of goggles that fit snugly around your nose and have no gaps, otherwise your goggles will get foggy. I wear Asian Fit goggles and they fit me perfectly.
3. Thermal base layer – Top (Icebreaker)
4. Waterproof ski/snowboard jacket (Arc’teryx)
I’m due for a jacket upgrade and I’ll be shopping my favorite brands Helly Hansen, Halti, and Vancouver’s Arc’teryx.
Tip: Buy a jacket with lots of pockets, both outside and inside. I pack mine with snacks, a sandwich, and even a can of Pellegrino blood orange soda. I’m not kidding! I look about 300 lbs with all that food in my clothes but I can snack on the chairlift, avoid expensive mountain food, and have more time to ski.
5. Neck warmer (here)
You’ll feel very warm and possibly sweaty)as you make your way to the chairlift, especially with a neck warmer, but trust me, the temperature will drop rapidly as you go up the mountain and you’ll be perfectly dressed.
6. Waterproof mittens (MEC)
I started out with a pair of gloves, but had to exchange them for a pair of mittens. When you’re at the peak of the mountain, only mittens will do.
7. Ski/Snowboard socks (here)
They make a big difference!
8. Waterproof ski/snowboard pants (Arc’teryx)
You can put snacks in pants pockets too 😉
9. Thermal base layer – bottom (Arc’teryx)
10. Trail map (Whistler Blackcomb)
What are your ski and snowboard essentials? Anything you can’t be without? Do you ski with a backpack? Listen to music? Carry a Go-Pro? Let me know in the comments!
Stay tuned and come back soon, because I just might be a dork and post photos of my own ski outfit
Photo of skier: source