Skiing

 
 

Alpine (downhill) Skiing

Alpine skiing is also known as downhill skiing. Each of the ski resorts offers a variety of facilities and ski runs, catering for beginner to advanced skiers and snowboarders. When planning your trip, choose an alpine ski resort which caters for your needs.

Lessons

Most ski resorts offer ski school facilities suited to a variety of age groups and skill levels. Lessons will enable you to learn the sport more quickly and will give you a good idea of which areas are suited to your skill level.

Safety

Do ski or ride on a slope that is beyond your ability as you will endanger yourself and skiers and snowboarders. Observe the Alpine Responsibility Code at all times for your own safety and the safety of others.

Children should be supervised at all times.

Equipment

Alpine ski clothing and equipment is specialised. Before purchasing or hiring equipment and clothing, ensure that it is suitable to your needs. Consult your local professional ski retailer who can advise you on the best equipment to meet your requirements. If you have your own equipment, always have it checked and serviced regularly by a reputable technician before riding lifts. Clothing requirements for alpine skiing are basically the same as for snowboarding, but special boots are worn. Helmets should be worn by children, novices and experienced riders.

Boots

Ski boots have attachment points on the toe and heel that lock into the bindings on skis. It is important to have ski boots properly fitted by a professional.

Skis

Skis are available in different widths and lengths and should be selected based on your height, skiing preferences and snow conditions. Seek advice from a professional about which skis are appropriate for you and ensure your skis are professionally fitted to your boots.

Poles

Poles can act as a balance aid while skiing and provide leverage for stops, starts and turns. The pole length and materials and are selected based on your height and skiing preferences. Seek advice from a professional when deciding which poles are right for you.

Helmets

Helmets may make a difference in reducing or preventing head injuries. Snow sports helmets are insulated for cold weather and provide better coverage and impact protection than other sports helmets, such as bicycle helmets. Be sure that the helmet you choose meets current snowsports helmet design standards.

 

Cross Country Skiing

Some alpine resorts cater solely for cross-country skiers and most ski resorts offer a range of cross-country trails close to and within their resort boundaries. Cross-country skiing is a pleasant way to enjoy the alpine environment, but as with all alpine activities, you must plan ahead and prepare for your trip.

Clothing

The right clothing ensures your comfort and therefore your enjoyment of your cross-country skiing trip. Windproof and waterproof clothing is essential. Cotton or nylon clothing is not suitable for snow conditions as these materials are poor insulators when wet. Do not wear jeans.

What to wear or carry

  • Clothing made of wool, or synthetic fibres that have insulating properties similar to wool such as fibre pile.

  • A number of layers of thin clothing, rather than a few layers of thick clothing.

  • Woollen beanie and gloves or mittens.

  • Woollen socks.

  • Warm insulating layers, e.g., polypropylene thermals, thin woollen jumpers.

  • Waterproof and windproof outer layer, e.g., jacket, pants and gloves.

  • Woollen socks.

  • Goggles and/or sunglasses.

Before buying clothing, seek expert advice and remember that showerproof is not the same as waterproof.

Safety and Planning

Most resorts offer trails at different standards. Ski only those trails suitable for your ability. Take ski lessons and ski within your capabilities. Do not underestimate the time required to complete a trail or circuit and return to your car.

Children should be supervised at all times.

Equipment and Supplies

The equipment used in cross-country skiing is generally lightweight and is not suitable for use anywhere other than on groomed tracks.

Most ski hire outlets have a range of cross-country skis but it is recommended that you call ahead to confirm that you will be able to hire cross-country skis at your destination, especially if you are in a large group.

When cross-country skiing you should always have the following with you:

  • A plastic ground sheet or thermal blanket.

  • High energy foods such as chocolate, nuts, dried fruits or barley sugar.

  • Fruit juice or water.

  • A whistle (you can blow a whistle for hours, you can only yell for help for about 20 minutes).

  • A compass and map.

  • Emergency windproof, waterproof and warm clothing.

  • Waterproof matches or a cigarette lighter.