If you’re anything like me, you’ve been longing for this moment for months, the first snowfall. Snow has started piling up and the ski resorts open within weeks. Now is the time to finish off your preseason checklist for the best season. If you’re having trouble remembering everything you need to do, I’ve got it all right here!
First– Tune-up your skis! Your ski and snowboard gear may have sat in your garage during the off-season and collected dust or rust and now it’s time to make sure those bad boys are in tip-top shape for the season. Tuning your skis will take off the rust and will give you that sharp edge you’ve been missing. On top of that, lay down a fresh coat of wax and you will be the fastest ski-bum on the slopes. Bring your gear into any one of our locations for a basic tune.
Second– Do you have all your gear? Make sure you have everything you’ll need, head-to-toe and inside-out!
- Ski/ Board socks (Stay away from cotton)
- Boots
- Bottom base layer
- Top base layer
- (Maybe a mid-layer)
- Snow pants
- Ski jacket
- Hand warmers
- Glove liner
- Gloves
- Neck gaiter/neck tube
- Beanie
- Helmet
- Goggles
- SMILE!
**If you’re missing any of the above items, you can get them at Utah Skis or visit one of our 15 locations.**
Third– Does your gear still fit? This is important to check (especially for your little ones) BEFORE you get up to the slopes. Who knows, maybe you got a little taller or a little shorter over the summer. Maybe you put on a bit of insulation to stay warm for the winter. The easiest way to check the fit is to try on everything like you’re buying it for the first time. Come-on now, don’t be shy! You’re never too old to play dress up!
Fourth– Are you still rocking that awesome onesie you picked up in the 80’s? Are your waterproof pants not keeping your bottom dry? Are you wearing an old pair of beat-up soccer socks? If you said yes to any of these questions, or questioned your own gear, it may be time to upgrade. Treat yourself to some new goggles or a new coat. After all, it’s going to be a cold winter, and you deserve it.
Fifth– Get in shape! Conditioning for the ski season will give you the strength you need to make it through the first few weeks of the season. Yoga is a great way to loosen your muscles to avoid muscle tears. It is also a good idea to build the muscles that don’t get used as much outside of ski season. Click here for a 6-week plan to get in shape for the season. Focus on legs, cardio, upper body and your core.
Sixth– Have FUN… the most important thing you can add to your checklist this season. Have a great time on the slopes and make memories with the people who matter most. Follow this checklist and make every day a Utah ski vacation!
By: Megan Ericksen
