Skiing tips:]?

Question

Im excited in all just a little scared, but im going leaving tomorow to go to new mexico to ski and i have never done it before and i was wondering if you had any tips, help, or comments?

Answer 1

After 30 years of skiing the best tip that I can give you is to take a lesson your first day.  Your gear is also going to be important so make sure you deal with a reputable company that takes the time to fit you properly.  Having your feet hurt all day on your first time out is a real drag.  

It sounds like you have decided on Snow snowboarding.    the Learning curve on the snow board is a lot shorter.

I just noticed your follow up statement and I think you are doing the right thing by getting a lesson and going boarding instead of skiing.

don't worry about messing up.  I think that you will be better off on the snow board anyway.  Heres a list of things to bring and the reasons why.  This applies to both sking and boarding.

-Bring a good warm jacket

- waterproof snow/ski pants

- good gloves

- thermals (upper and lower body)

- warm socks

- woolen (or warm) hat/ cap/ beanie

- UV protected snow goggles or Sun glasses for sunny days

- sun block

- chapstick

- scarf (optional)

- helmet (optional)

Bring snow pants (or ski pants) and thermals (which are basically thin, special clothing that is designed to keep you warm.) Although, you might realize that the thermals are too warm (depending on the weather and where you ski) Try layering your clothing so you can vary the amount at any given time and thus control your body temperature. The day can start out cold and then the sun comes out and can be too warm if you have the heavy gear on.  Also, bring a good jacket with a hood and a high zipper that you can zip up to under your chin. Since you are just starting, remember that it can get real warm when you are exerting yourself, so judge your temperature well and don’t over dress. You could bring a sweater that you can use if you get too hot and need to take off your jacket.

Sun block is also a necessity because you can get really burned. And definitely get protection for you eyes, such as snow goggles (UV protection). Sunglasses are OK on sunny days.  Snow goggles keep the snow out of your eyes on stormy days.   Goggles are a must in bad weather. Bring some good gloves that will keep your hands warm and dry (not mittens because you can't grip poles or anything with them).  Bring two pair. One pair for cold weather and another, lighter pair, for sunny, warm days. Bring some good socks that are thick and will keep your feet warm for a long time (there is almost nothing worse than if your feet are cold and wet, because then your feet start hurting and that is just no fun at all; your boots should fit very well).

Bring a good hat (snow beanie/cap) that will protect your ears. Scarves do keep you warm, but they get annoying once you start going a little faster on the bigger slopes. Don’t bring snacks and water with you onto the slopes. There is usually a cafeteria with everything there (I usually ski for some time and then I take a lunch break and go eat and drink something warm and ski some more. This is also a good time to vary your clothing if it has become colder or warmer.  Also, you could take helmet if you want. Some people ski or board with helmets and it may be a good idea for you since you've never been snow boarding and I can guarantee that you will fall a LOT at the beginning.) Don’t worry, even falling is fun on your first day!

Bring a change of clothes along so that you can get warm and dry after you have finished boarding.

Good luck boarding and have fun!

Answer 2

I went skiing there last year! Are you going to Angelfire?

Anyway, whatever you do, wear sunscreen. You'll need it.

Answer 3

It really depends on the person. I never took lessons and it clicked the 1st time I tried. No need to be scared, you're there to have fun, right? Just enjoy and watch how other skiiers ski as a good way to learn.

Answer 4

Suncreen

in NM, goggles and sun glasses

food and drink

HAVE FUN!!!

Answer 5

Sunscreen

Lip salve

Wear layers- not big jumpers

Eat a good breakfast

Take lessons

Enjoy yourself !