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Snow Beach Yacht

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Before You Go

If it’s a skiing holiday for beginners, there are a few things that should be organised before your holiday that will ensure you’re fully prepared for your first week on the snow.

Pre-book Your Skier’s or Snowboarder’s Pack Level 0

Let us take the hassle out of organising your ski or board essentials. You’re not going to get very far without them so simply pre-book your Skier’s Pack or Snowboarder’s Pack and we’ll arrange for your ski or board equipment, tuition and lift passes to be ready for your arrival.

Clothing & Accessories

Its vital to take the right clothing on your ski holiday as weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. Clothing should be warm, practical and weatherproof. You will find it more comfortable to have layers of thin, warm clothes, rather than thick, bulky garments.

For beginners, ski holidays need not mean purchasing a whole new winter wardrobe. If you can, borrow as much clothing as possible from family or friends. It is possible to hire clothing before you go. Contact your nearest snowsports shop and if they don’t hire clothing, they should know the nearest shop that does.

If you want to buy, we recommend Ellis Brigham, who offers a comprehensive range of clothing and equipment.

Essential Clothing & Accessories Checklist

Ski/Snowboard Jacket
Jackets should be lightweight, warm, waterproof and windproof with lots of pockets to carry essentials for the day e.g. lift pass, suncream, money, piste map etc. One-piece ski suits tend to be a little dated so if you are planning to take one, be prepared to be spotted from the chairlift, especially if it's bright! A ski suit should not be too tight - make sure you can sit down comfortably and stretch your arms above your head with ease.

Ski/Snowboard Trousers
Like jackets, trousers should be warm and weatherproof. Make sure the leg cuff is wide enough to go over the top of your ski or snowboard boots.

Thermal Base Layer
The layer next to your skin is the most layer of your clothing. A thermal base layer provides a warm, breathable base that draws moisture away from the skin rather than to it. Most specialist sports shops sell thermal t-shirts, vests and leggings.

Hat
Always carry a hat even if it's sunny when you leave your accommodation in the morning. Weather conditions in the mountains are very changeable and since you lose one seventh of your body heat through your head, a hat is indispensable in cold conditions.

Gloves/Mittens
Gloves or mittens should be waterproof, warm and durable. Goretex or leather is ideal. They should be large enough to keep air circulating around the fingertips.

Socks
Choose specialist ski or snowboard socks which are seamless – seams can cause irritation. If you need to wear two pairs, the ideal combination for warmth is silk inside wool.

Goggles & Sunglasses
Necessary to protect your eyes from the weather and block the strong ultra-violet light reflected off the snow. Goggles are better when it's cold or snowing as they offer fuller protection from the elements.

Sun Protection
Most people are well aware of the dangers of too much exposure to the sun. At altitude, the suns rays are intensified. The reflection from the snow adds to the intensity as well. Remember, sunburn can ruin your holiday. Always use a high factor sun cream for your face, ears and neck and apply lip salve regularly throughout the day.

Wristguards
It’s natural when you fall to put your hands out first. Wristguards are recommended by many experts as an essential purchase for snowboarders as they help to protect from wrist injuries.

Helmet
We recommend buying or hiring a helmet for protection. As well as protection from falls or other people’s actions, they provide warmth too. If buying, always get advice and fitting from your nearest retailer. Helmets must fit perfectly and be comfortable. Make sure your googles or sunglasses fit in the face opening.

Get Fit

You don’t have to be an international athlete to go on a learn to ski holiday but preparing your body by doing some exercise before you go will enhance your enjoyment of your holiday.

There’s no doubt skiing and snowboarding can be physically tiring – depending on your chosen resort, you’ll probably be averaging 4 hours a day in lessons or on the slopes practicing. The higher the altitude you’re learning in, the more physically exerting it will seem.

The fitter your body, the less chance of injury and the more enjoyable a time you’ll have so follow an exercise programme in the 6 weeks leading up to your trip. The programme will ideally include endurance training, flexibility and ski specific exercises.   

Get a Lesson Before You Go

For beginners, ski holidays are often easier if a few lessons are taken at a local ski slope before your holiday. Most people find these introductory lessons help them to find their ski legs quicker once in resort. Most real snow or dry ski slopes offer qualified instruction and courses at very reasonable prices. For absolute beginners a session on a 'real snow' or dry ski slope will provide a feel for the equipment and basic technique before taking to the snow. You will be amazed what a difference it makes on day one!