Starting your kids skiing opens a world of adventure and fun. It gets your kids into the outdoors, which has its own physical and mental health benefits. Whether your child enjoys cross-country skiing or downhill skiing, she'll derive maximum enjoyment from her outing if she has the proper ski equipment.
Skis and Poles
When purchasing skis for your child, consider the following three criteria: flex, size and camber. Your child's skis should be able to flex with relative ease. Brace the ski's tail against the ground and place your hand on the ski tip. You should be able to bend your child's skis without exerting much effort. Correct ski size or length depends on your child's height, weight and level of skiing competency. Beginning skiers can benefit from a shorter ski because it's easier to control, although a more experienced skier who's lighter in weight might also feel comfortable on shorter skis. Generally, if you stand the ski up, its tail on the floor, the ski's tip should reach the bridge of your child's nose. Camber or arch is especially important if your child is participating in cross-country skiing. Ensure that your child can depress the skis' cambers and that the camber is not too stiff for her.
Your child might benefit from using no poles at first. Without poles, she will be able to focus more on developing her skiing technique. Poles can be introduced later. Pole sizes vary based on height and type of skiing.
Boots and Bindings
According to the Great Outdoors website, whether you're purchasing your child's first pair of ski boots, upgrading to a more advanced model or buying her boots for ski racing, the ski boots you select will help dictate your child's ski performance and enjoyment. Although your child's feet are still growing, resist the temptation to buy ski boots that she'll grow into. It's acceptable to buy a pair of ski boots that are one size larger to accommodate your child's growing feet, but boots that are more than one size large can affect your child's fun, comfort and control.
Ski bindings bind your child's ski boots to skis. The type of binding you select is largely based on the type of ski your child has and the style of skiing she enjoys. According to the REI website, kids' bindings have lower release settings than adult bindings, and while they're made to accommodate kids ski boots, some bindings will work with adult sizes.
Helmet and Clothing
According to the NSAA, if your child is a downhill skier, you should have them wear a ski helmet to help avoid head injuries such as bruises or concussions. When purchasing a helmet for your child, size her helmet appropriately. The helmet should fit your child's head so that there's no wiggle room. A helmet is not a piece of equipment your child should grow into. Although a helmet can help prevent serious head injuries, it's important for you to educate your child about appropriate ski behavior and activities. Even the best helmet may not protect your child if she is skiing recklessly.
Sweat-wicking polypropylene base layers help your child stay warm and dry out on the slopes or trails. Pants and jackets designed specifically for skiing also improve your child's comfort and minimize her risk of thermoregulatory problems. Consider dressing your child in layers, which allows your child to accommodate her changing body temperature. Because a significant amount of heat is lost through the head, your child should wear a hat or headband while skiing. Mittens typically are better than gloves, as they are more effective for keeping you child's hands warm.
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