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 Complete Beginner - Level 0 packages
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 or snowboard 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, if you can, borrow as much clothing as possible from family
or friends so you won't need to buy a whole new winter
wardrobe (unless you want to of course!). Also, try contacting your
nearest snowsports shop to see if they hire clothing.
If you want to buy, we recommend Surfdome.com Lifestyle Store who offer a range of snowsports clothing and essential skiing and snowboarding equipment.
Essential clothing checklist
Ski or snowboard jacket
Jackets should be lightweight, warm, water and windproof with lots of pockets to carry essentials for the day e.g. lift pass, suncream, money, piste map, water etc. One-piece ski suits tend to be a little dated so if you are planning on taking 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 or 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 important 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 around 30% of your body heat through your head, a hat is indispensable in cold conditions.
Gloves or mittens
These 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
These are essential 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 more 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.
Helmet
We highly 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 goggles or sunglasses fit in the face opening.
Get Fit
You don’t have to be an international athlete to go on a 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 real stuff. You will be amazed what a difference it makes on day one!