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General tips:
Call the ski resort to find out whether they offer a discount "learn to
ski" package that combines equipment rental, lift ticket, and lessons.
If you plan on skiing several times during your
first year, a seasonal rental package is a very economical option. Especially for the first trip, rent your
equipment at an on-mountain shop or one close to the resort in case you need to
exchange poorly fitting boots or experience a problem.
If you have the opportunity, try your rented
equipment on before heading to the slopes. Wear the boots indoors to get used to
the added weight and to make sure they fit comfortably.
Rent skis, poles, and boots until you can link
wedge turns and begin "matching" your skis parallel at the end of
turns. Once you can make solid turns, you can think about buying your own skis
and boots. By renting, you've saved yourself the expense of buying a starter
pair of skis that you'd have to upgrade after a few weeks.
Properly fitted equipment makes it easier to
enjoy the sport of skiing and will make you want to come back for more.
Boots
Rental boots can be a major problem and we suggest that you ask for a pair
of fairly new boots. This will make your life much easier on the slopes. Good
fitting boots can make skiing easier and more comfortable, while boots that hurt
regularly drive beginning skiers from the sport.
Before putting a boot on loosen all the buckles,
then open the boot as wide as it will go. Make sure your socks are pulled up all
the way and step into the boot--buckles facing towards the outside.
Boots should fit snugly without too much room for
your feet to slop around, but make sure they aren't too tight. After tightening
the buckles a little, lean back--your toes should press slightly against the
front. Then lean forward--your toes should no longer touch. It's better to take
a few extra minutes to make sure you have good fitting boots before you leave
the rental shop, than spend an entire day or vacation in discomfort.
Wear your boots around the lodge with the buckles
loosely latched. Tighten them only when you're on the snow and ready to step
into your skis. Don't tighten them initially or you'll pay the price for the
rest of the day--sore, numb feet. Start with the boots a little looser and as
you warm up, tighten them more.
Print this out for future
reference and remember to have fun!
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