Whether you ski or snowboard, the next couple of months will bring a great anticipation to hit the slopes.
In Colorado, mountain men are already hiking up to the peaks to ride the first snow of the season. Parts of South Dakota recently received up to 38 inches of snow, in October! Here are some quick tips and a little bit of information to get you stoked for the upcoming season.
The first step for any snowboarder or skier is wardrobe. Jacket, pants, accessories and even gloves represent style and skill. Visit Burton’s website to find a variety of apparel and accessories. They have many different lines of clothes and boards including The White Collection by Shaun White. Also, check out the gear guide at snow.transworld.com.
The next crucial piece needed to start off the season is hard goods: boards, bindings, and boots. In an email interview, Breckenridge ski instructor Tom Owens said, “Boots should fit snug and tight. The wrong boots, especially boots that are too big can ruin your experience.” Burton offers a variety of boards to match your skill and style. They are under three categories; camber, rocker, and spring loaded.
Want to get your boots fitted and find boards and bindings? Head over to Sun and Ski in Plainview off exit 48 on the Long Island Expressway. Need goggles? Check out the Oakley store in the Smith Haven Mall or go on line at oakley.com where you can even customize your own goggles.
Our school offers ski trips which will be on January 11, February 1, and March 1. Sophomore Erik Nidzyn said, “They are a great experience because you get to practice your skiing or riding at a cheaper price. They are also a lot of fun.”
Head upstate to Wyndham, Hunter Mountain, or way up to Whiteface, Lake Placid. Looking for the next step up? Vermont offers solid riding at Okemo, Killington, Stratton, or Mount Snow.
Looking for a February break destination? Look no further than the Rocky Mountains. They’ve already gotten snow and the mountains are open. Mountain pro Tom Owens said, “The season is gearing up to be a good start. All the early snow makes for a great base this season.”
If you are looking for some professional action, head out to Aspen from January 23-26 and catch the Winter X Games at Buttermilk. Southwest Airlines has flights to Denver for $79 one way.
On the first day out, remember to take it easy on the first day and drink lots of fluids. If you are on a large mountain that you are unfamiliar with, go with a mountain pro. Ownes also said, “They will improve your riding and make it more efficient. They will also tell you what terrain to hit at different times of the day and how to avoid the crowds.”
Not finding a drive to get yourself pumped for the season? Watch the movie Art of Flight and you’ll be craving the snow in no time. Sophomore snowboarder Zak Jones said, “I am stoked! I can’t wait to get up on the mountain and shred some pow!”
Happy riding!
