What should I take?
All skiing on snow occurs in somewhat extreme climates, very different from those we are used to. It is important to remember that these can be extremes of cold or sun. It is vital to be correctly clothed and prepared in order to ensure that these extremes do not make the holiday uncomfortable and miserable.
I have included below some information to help those who have not skied before, but it is worth everyone taking a moment to read through to ensure your equipment and clothing meets these standards. I have also included a general list of things on the right of what you should make sure you pack. You can download and print it off if you wish using the button below.
There are various places that ski gear can be bought or hired from, and as young people have a tendency to grow it's worth thinking about what is best bought and what it might be better to hire (this is ideally ski trousers/salopettes and jackets). There are a number of companies you can find on the internet who offer the hire of ski clothing. Below are some links for companies parents have used in the past, though I cannot vouch for them personally.
Remember that ski boots, skis and helmet are all included in the cost of the trip.
Hat
An enormous amount of heat can be lost through the head, chilling the body very quickly if the weather is cold. At the other extreme a hat is necessary to prevent sunstroke and sunburn if the weather is very hot. For this reason it's ideal if it also covers your ears as these often get burnt. A scarf can also a handy item for bad weather.
Gloves
Proper ski gloves are essential to keep hands safe and warm.
They should be made of fabric, leather or vinyl and insulated. It's a good idea if they have a reinforced palm for holding the ski poles and deep enough cuffs not to leave a gap at the wrist. Also, make sure they are not too tight as this will reduce the warmth they give.
Ski Socks
For comfort proper ski socks are essential. They should be long (ski boots come to your mid calf) and be reasonably thick. This will not only help to keep your feet warm but also help to avoid rubbing and blisters. If possible have a clean pair for each day, as your feet will get sweaty and very smelly. At the very least have two pairs which can be washed on alternate days.
Top Tip: A pack of 'sanitary towels' can make ideal padding to give extra protection to your shins if you find they get sore when rubbing on your ski boots!
Goggles and Sunglasses
Eye protection is essential as we'll be skiing at high altitudes, surrounded by reflecting snow and exposed to UV light. Such exposure can lead to snow blindness very quickly (the winter Alps have a higher light level than a Mediterranean beach in summer). Goggles are a minimum as they can be used in all weather, but sunglasses are often more comfortable in good weather.
Suntan Lotion
We hope to have clear skies as well as good snow. High factor suntan lotions are essential, even higher factors if you have sensitive skin (if in doubt then get factor 50!). Some people also use lipbalm to avoid cracking in the cold and UV light.
Underclothes, Shirts and Sweaters
When thinking about what to wear underneath, it’s best to have lots of layers rather than one thick one such as a thick jumper. This means you can easily add or remove layers depending on whether you get hot or cold. The amount of clothing you'll need will really depend on how much you feel the cold.
Ski Jacket and Trousers
The basic requirements are for these to be windproof, well insulated and water repellent. There are different styles including all in one suits, salopettes (trousers which come up above the waist) or normal trousers and jackets. The important thing is that all your body is covered. There should be no gaps between the lower and upper body, you need good mobility in them and they should cover all of your arms when you stretch. You don't want to be in a blizzard and discover the snow is going to find a way in!
Day Sack
This will be essential to carry those important items like your lunch! But also for items like a drink, spare clothes, goggles, camera and other snacks etc. It should be of a rucksack style that can go on your back and not affect your movement, but it shouldn’t be too big.
