Picking not only the right ski resort for your upcoming vacation but also Holiday gifts for the skiers and snowboarders on your Christmas list can be stressful. Rather than spending all your time worrying about it, check out these tips on where to go for that snow-filled ski vacation and some cool gift ideas for those shredders on your list.
Getting properly outfitted makes a difference. So you can enjoy your turns
First: Ski Vacation tips
- Go where there is snow- might seem obvious but there is an art to picking places for powder. Visit OpenSnow for up-to date powder forecasts if you can be flexible in your travel. Also look at recent history- for example Fernie Alpine Resort has had consistent snow for the last 5 winters and last year had average of every third day had new snow. Look at ski resorts with great Spring snow coverage if booking in April – a good example would be Kicking Horse Mountain Resort with higher elevation and more Northerly location.
- Go during less busy times to really get the most from your skiing and riding experience.
- Destination ski vacation in the planning – usually requires a bit more of booking window- so check the most accurate ‘long-range’ weather forecast sites- like NOAA, Weather Network and Environment Canada who make longer range winter predictions and review the maps to see if the region you are looking at has ‘higher moisture’ and ‘cooler than normal temps’ – which combined make epic conditions for skiers and riders.
- Book early and as well directly with the ski resort- as usually early specials will be their best value but as well if you book direct you are typically getting best rate and can usually combine with lodging and lift ticket to get best pricing.
Ok now that you got some ideas on where you are going for your ski vacation let’s look at cool gear for your Holiday gift guide.
picking the right footwear can assist you in having better traction this winter
- Ski Helmets and Goggles – proper fit matters here. You don’t want that ice cream headache so try them both on together before your purchase so there is not a gap between the top of the goggles and your helmet. That gap will expose skin and your forehead will thank you. Check out the latest Helmet and Goggle combo from Smith Sports Optics.
- Boot dryer- everyone will be happier with this gift. It not only makes your boots feel sweet on cool mornings but helps to keep the smells down. Check out the new Dry Guy
- Warm gloves can make all the difference- especially vital for those new to the sport as you will be spending some time ‘playing in the snow’, while you are learning. So make sure to keep the hands dry and warm- mitts best for colder climates but gloves give you a better handle on your poles.
- Another must have before hitting the snowy trails on a cold winter day is something hot to drink from the way cool Yeti insulated coffee cups. Don’t forget the Yeti Cooler for apres ski time.
- Stocking stuffer- Energy bars- so important to fuel the body when you play outside.
- Ski socks- try the non-cotton variety – especially for really snowy spots like the Powder Highway region of British Columbia
- You may want to carry of few of the items above- get a Day-pack from North Face or Herschel and fill it with water bottle, energy bars and extra warm mitts.
- GoPro- new Hero 5 perfect for capturing your special moments and sharing the outdoors with friends and family.
Everything mentioned above can be found at either of the expansive Sporting Life locations at Southcentre Mall or Market Mall.
Don’t worry – let the ski pros assist you in picking the perfect ski
Don’t worry about it- need more ideas or have more questions – It’s easy- you can visit your local Sporting Life retail location (new Sporting Life Market Mall location now open) and consult their professional team in-store to get even more input and tips on gear and clothing to fit your needs.
