AS the owner of snow sports speciality retailer Bumps Snowsports, I'm often asked about ski gear and the key pieces that are needed to ensure people are comfortable and have a good time at the snow.
Here are my recommendations:
Ski boots
Before you look at any other ski gear, make sure you get your ski boots right.
I can't emphasise enough the importance of having a good fitting ski boot.
Make it your top priority.
Make sure they are comfortable and that they have been fitted properly by a technician.
You are meant to be able to touch your toes at the end of the liner in a brand–new boot.
When you push your knees forward, your toes should pull away from the front of the boot.
A good fitting boot should feel firm and secure.
Thermals
Lightweight and breathable underlayers such as thermals, fleece and merino wool are crucial for keeping you warm and dry while you're on the mountain.
If your outer layer gets wet from falling over or constant snowfall, the last thing you want is for it to soak through to your skin – you'd freeze.
Dress in multiple layers, using thermals as your base layer, then a middle layer of polyester or wool, then your final layer, or outer shell, which includes an insulated ski jacket and waterproof ski pants.
Eyewear
Perhaps one of the most important pieces of your gear will be sunglasses and ski goggles.
They will protect your eyes from different weather conditions including UV rays, glare, wind and snow.
Choose goggles with double lenses that deter condensation from forming when your warm breath hits the cold lens.
Anti–fog coating inside the goggles helps.
Vents along the sides, top and bottom removes warm air from inside the goggles.
Gloves or mittens
Whether you're skiing or taking a walk on the mountain, gloves or mittens are essential.
Don't skimp on a good pair of gloves or mittens because if you've got cold hands, your body will be cold.
For someone who feels the cold badly, mittens are a must, and are particularly appropriate for children or women with a small body mass.
For everyone else, gloves are suitable.
Choose gloves that will secure and tighten around your wrist as this will trap warmth inside the gloves and keep out unwanted snow.
Long ski socks
Long socks that fit and come up out of the ski boot are needed.
Go for a base layer and an insulating layer, like thin wool or synthetic socks, to keep your feet warm.
Do not wear footy socks – they're ribbed and dig in, and can cut off the circulation.
All of these items obviously need to be complemented by a quality pair of ski pants and a ski jacket that are waterproof and breathable.
Remember, you've got to be warm and comfortable – and ensure that your partner or family members are warm too so that everyone has an enjoyable time.
Peter Haley is the owner of Bumps Snowsports, a snow sports retailer located in Melbourne. The store stocks the largest range of snow equipment and gear in Australia, and offers hire and tuning services. Visit the store at 481 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick, VIC. Details: bumps.com.au
