Saturday, April 6, 2013

SKI GEAR CHECKLIST

WISCONSIN SKIER'S GUIDE: Ski Gear Checklist

Trying to decide what to bring on your next trip?
Want to make sure you don't forget any of the ski-essentials?
.........Review the Wisconsin Skier's gear checklist to pack for your next big adventure.
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Equipment:
Skis - Bring the right ski for conditions - All Mountain, Powder, Park, Touring, Race, Trick etc.
Ski Boots - Bring your boots, and buckle them up (as you would when wearing them) after use to avoid warping the plastic
Ski Poles - See chart to the right to determine your ski pole length
Goggles - The goggles you need will depend on the weather conditions and time of day - tinted goggles are best during the day
Helmet - Bring a helmet to protect your head especially if you are a beginner or if you are doing any terrain park riding

Outerwear:
Jacket - Bring a waterproof/resistant, windproof/resistant Winter jacket
Gloves - Bring a warm and waterproof pair of gloves or mittens
Snow Pants - Bring a waterproof/resistant, windproof/resistant Snow Pant
Balaclava/Ski Mask/Neck Gator - Often forgotten, these items will be the ones that keep you the warmest
Hat/Headband - Protect your ears from the cold, a lot of heat escapes from your head so a hat would be most recommended

Clothing:
Base-Layers - Base layers are thin and tight and should lay next to skin for moisture-wicking properties
Mid-Layers - Mid layers should go over base layers, good options include fleece material, sweatshirts, comfortable pants, etc. and can be added or removed depending on temperature
Socks - Wear socks that are thick enough to keep your feet warm and ones that will sit at least mid-calve to avoid rubbing of ski boots on ankles

Traveling Cases:
Back Pack - To keep your essential ski items in and for easy carry
Ski Bag - Protect your investment during your trip by storing your skis in a ski travel bag
Protective Cases - For those who like to bring their electronics and don't feel comfortable leaving your phone or money behind, make sure these items are protected if you fall or get wet - leave items in jacket inner pockets and make sure they are zipped up, Put cash and IDs in a money clip

Accessories:
Hand-Foot Warmers - For extremely cold conditions there buy warmer packs made for skiing
Electronics - MP3 Player, Camera, GoPro, GPS, Cell Phone etc.
Padlock - Most ski hills have lockers to keep your personal items in so bring a padlock to keep your backpack and other items safe while skiing

Other - Misc:
Ski Passes/Hotel Reservations - For those traveling and staying overnight
Map/Directions - This includes map of the ski resort, and if traveling distances map of the state and driving directions to the location if GPS is not available
Identification & Insurance Card - Bring these items just in case of injury, but more importantly bring you ID so you can hit the Chalet for a drink or two after skiing

First Aid:
Basic First Aid - Antacids, headache/pain relievers, bandages, gauze, medical tape, and medication for other conditions including allergies, asthma, diabetes, motion sickness etc.
Sunscreen - Make sure to always have a sunscreen and lip balm with SPF to protect your face from the elements
Moisturizers - For windburned or dry Winter skin, don't forget the lotion

Post-Ski:
Change of Pants/Shirt - Bring a change of clothing so you can remove wet ones and be more comfortable
Snow Boots - Bring a pair of boots to wear after - because let's face it, ski boots aren't always the most comfortable walking shoe


The list above includes all basic things needed for skiing.  Basic travel items were not included in this checklist, so if you are going a long distance and staying the night - don't forget your toothpaste!
Additionally more comprehensive gear will be required for adventerous skiing in ungroomed territories.

If any of your favorite ski essentials were missed, feel free to comment below.

2 comments:

  1. Someone beat you to the title: http://www.wi-ski.com/

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    Replies
    1. Thats ok, theres no competition here. Just wanted to write about my favorite hobby.

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