A family ski vacation can be a very memorable experience. Ensuring that children are properly outfitted with the correct ski equipment is important to their success as future skiers. Improper sizing and style of ski equipment can turn a wonderful family experience into a frustrating and unpleasant nightmare.
Skis
Skis must be the right size for children so they can perform at optimum potential. For children, the most important aspect of sizing is length. Shorter skis will allow children to turn with greater agility. Sizing is based on weight and ability level. Standing a set of shaped skis next to a child, the ski tips should come to the top of the shoulder for lighter children and eye level for heavier ones. Shaped ski tips are not necessary for children, but their design lends to easier turning and maneuvering and they put less stress on a child’s legs than a straight ski.
Boots
Purchasing equipment that is too large for a child in the expectation that he may grow into them can be detrimental to the development of his skills. Ski boots are sized according to the mondopoint system. Measuring your child’s foot in centimeters will provide you with his corresponding mondopoint size. His toes should barely touch the end of the boot once buckled while still allowing enough room to wiggle them.
Poles
Poles are not considered an essential aspect of ski equipment for children of the beginner level. Until children have gained control of their legs and can turn safely and easily poles will only interfere with concentration.
Helmet
Skiing is an inherently dangerous sport where falls are expected, especially when young and learning. Wearing a ski helmet can minimize the risk of obtaining a serious head injury. Along with meeting excellent safety ratings, a ski helmet should provide warmth. Ski helmets are an essential part of your child’s equipment.
Clothing
Dressing your child in multiple layers of clothing will help him to stay warm in extreme cold, yet allow him to remove unneeded items should he get warm. The first layer should be a set of long underwear with the ability to absorb moisture, dry quickly and maintain warmth. Next should be a pair of warm pants, a turtleneck and sweater or sweatshirt topped with a waterproof jacket and snow pants. Mittens will keep a child’s hands warmer than gloves and sunglasses and goggles with prevent them from being blinded in strong sunlight or heavy snow. Families will have a much nicer ski vacation if the children are dressed appropriately to deal with winter weather conditions.
Member Comments