If you’ve never been skiing before, you’re in for a treat. Imagine yourself gliding down sugar-dusted slopes, leaving a spray of powdery snow behind you, before retreating to a cosy chalet for mulled wine or hot chocolate (depending on what takes your fancy) and not forgetting the heavenly mountain backdrop views.
If you’re ready to take the leap (so to speak) and plan your first alpine adventure, then read our guide for a first timer’s foray into the snow-sport world.
What to know before you go
Choose a resort which is suitable for beginners:
Some resorts are perfect for beginners, and our travel experts will help point out these destinations for you. Choosing a resort close to ski lifts, a lively apres ski scene and facilities for when you’re not on the slopes.
What to wear:
Skiing is all about layers. Wearing thick cotton or wool jumpers will be cosy (and eventually sweaty) so try to avoid them! A thermal base and thin extra layers are the best way to keep both warm on the snow and cool in the sun.
Prepare your body:
Don’t make the same mistake many other new ski goers make. Not preparing your body. Skiing is a sport and your body (especially your legs) will thank you if you exercise in the run-up to your trip. There are many online guides to getting ‘ski-fit’, but even a few weeks of jogging before you go will help you prepare.
Try before you fly:
There are many indoor slopes in the UK. A lesson or two before your holiday will not only show you the bare essentials but also prepare you for the feeling of being on skis. It will also give you an introduction to the button lift – a surface lift where your skis remain on the snow and you are dragged up the mountain, which takes some getting used to, but is lots of fun once you’ve got the knack.
Pre-book your extras:
You will need three essentials to get on the mountain – a lift pass, lessons and equipment. We recommend these are pre-booked before you go as it can be very time consuming and frustrating queuing on the day to get these!
What to pack
Once you have picked your accommodation and booked your ultimate holiday in the snow, when the time comes, you will need to pack. We have come up with a list to make sure you don’t miss anything.
- Gloves – make sure these are water-proof.
- Helmet – protection is paramount to keep you safe. You can hire these along with your equipment.
- Socks – thermal socks will keep your toes toasty… never wear two pairs.
- Appropriate footwear – resorts will be either slushy or icy.
- Eyewear – sunglasses for sun, goggles for clouds.
- Hat/Scarf – you will thank us for these on your cold walks back to the hotel.
- Sun cream – the sun shines hard on those mountain tops, so make sure you protect your skin.
- Swimwear – if you fancy soaking in a jacuzzi after a long day on the piste.
Ski myths debunked
Everyone you know who has skied will have their own thoughts that they will no doubt want to share with you, but perhaps take some with a pinch of salt.
Ski boots hurt:
These are not the most comfortable of footwear, ski boots do have a reputation that precedes them. To be effective, boots need to be tight and secure around the ankle and heel. After a few hours, you will want them off your feet, but they shouldn’t necessarily hurt. Be sure to speak to your boot fitter if you are experiencing any pain.
I’m too old to learn to ski:
There is no cut off age for learning to ski. Whether you take to the slopes from walking or start when you are 80, you’ll be welcomed into a ski-school. As long as you’re reasonably fit, ready to listen to the instructor and are willing to learn, you’ll pick it up in no time. Many instructors now specialise in teaching skiers over 50 and with all the technology and equipment available now, it’s even easier to hit the slopes.
It’s a dangerous sport:
The fear of the mountain is enough to stop many people from learning to ski. However, thanks to improvements in safety and higher quality instruction, injuries on the mountain are increasingly rare these days. Hire from a reputable shop, wear a helmet, listen to everything your instructor tells you and you’ll have a great (and safe) time.
If you are considering a ski holiday we would love to go through the options with you so do get in touch.
