Skiing is an intensive sport and requires specific gear to ensure you enjoy your trip to the mountains. Forgetting one item from your checklist could result in spending the day in the lodge rather than on the slopes. While many ski resorts have rental equipment and clothing available, preparing a ski equipment checklist ahead of time ensures you never miss out on a skiing adventure.
Basic Ski Equipment
Skiing requires the use of skis, boots and poles. Tune your skis at the beginning of each season. Properly tuned skis function better in snow conditions and guarantee sharp edges and smooth bases. At the end of each season, apply a fresh coat of wax to protect the bases during summer storage. Bindings should be set to your specific weight, skiing ability and ski boot size as well as include a braking or restraining device. Ski boots should be dry inside and free of snow and debris on sole of the boot.
Clothing
While weather impacts clothing decisions, your basic packing list includes socks specifically manufactured for skiing, long underwear, a long-sleeve thermal undershirt, an insulating layer such as a fleece jacket or a wool sweater, ski pants and a outer jacket made of Gortex or down material. Additionally, take a hat or helmet, goggles and sunglasses, liner gloves, outer gloves and a neck gaiter with you. Depending on weather conditions, your list could also include a face mask or hooded outer jacket.
Other Items
There are items that are essential to your safety and enjoyment of the sport of skiing. These include sunscreen, lip balm and snacks that fit in your pocket, water, a trail map of the area if available, disposable hand and foot warmers and money for purchasing your ticket.
Tips
Stay organized during the winter ski season by storing loose equipment in a large duffel bag placed next to your skis, boots and poles. After each ski trip perform a quick inventory review. Replace or restock items that failed or were used.
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