It is your first weekend ever at the mountain. You have all your essentials. You have your snowboard or skis, boots, helmet, and goggles. You even have a brand-new waterproof jacket you are so excited to put to the test! But what about those beginner essentials that you only learn are ESSENTIAL after you have had some experience on the mountain?
Here are my Top 10 Beginner Essentials. These might be some things that you didn't think about, but make all the difference…
WRIST GUARDS
I hate to be the one who has to tell you, but learning how to ski or snowboard involves quite a bit of falling. Wearing wrist guards can help take away that element of fear of injury, which might be holding you back from reaching your potential.SHOP NOW
IMPACT SHORTS
Impact shorts are padded shorts that you wear under your snow pants to provide that little added layer of protection on your tailbone and hips. If you are looking into learning how to snowboard, investing in a pair of these will be something you will not regret. I will also let you in on a little secret… The pros wear impact shorts, so why not give yourself that luxury?
STOMP PAD
This one is a snowboard-specific essential. A stomp pad is an adhesive grip that sticks to your board towards your back binding. A stomp pad gives you some traction for your boot and ensures it is not sliding around when getting on and off the chairlift, in the lift lines, or anywhere else you only have one foot strapped in (skating). Learning to snowboard has a lot of moving parts, so why not remove one of them?
SUNSCREEN AND LIP BALM
UV rays increase by 2% for every 1,000ft in elevation and reflect strongly off the snow. If you have seen anyone with a horrendous goggle tan, then you would know that SPF on the mountain is an absolute must! Especially if you told your boss you were feeling sick and that's why you took time off work…
PORTABLE CHARGER
Keeping your phone charged is essential on the mountain. The cold can drain your phone battery much faster than usual, and getting separated on the mountain can happen. A portable charger is something you would rather have and not need than need and not have. Also, you need battery on your phone to take photos and create memories!
NECK GAITER
Keeping your face and neck protected from the cold can make your day much more comfortable. It only takes getting caught in one snowy day without one to understand how important they can be. Why have a cold face when you can be in a fleece-lined heaven? Look for breathable fabrics that won't get too damp from the snow or condensation.
HAND AND TOE WARMERS
I can handle a lot… but having cold toes isn't one of them. Keeping your extremities warm can go a long way. These toe and hand warmers heat up in just a couple of minutes and stay warm all day.
SKI SOCKS
Proper ski socks can make a huge difference in your performance, warmth and comfort levels on the mountain. Ski socks are made specifically for skiing and will have moisture-wicking properties and padding in the areas you need the most.
THERMALS
Wearing appropriate thermals on the mountain under your outer layers can help regulate your body temperature and keep you dry with their natural moisture-wicking properties. They provide an extra level of insulation and will perform much better than just a regular long sleeve.
SKI AND SNOWBOARD LOCK
Though mountain theft can be rare, having a ski lock can give you extra peace of mind when taking breaks in the lodge. They are small and easily fit in your pocket, making them a practical option for securing your new skis and snowboards to the racks.
