Spring Skiing Secrets

By Kerry Phillips

Utah Ski Corner

A very unusual ski season is wrapping up with a month of more unusual weather. The blasts of monster dumps, timed well with snow-making means the season goes and with enough snow to enjoy the ride and plenty of sun to forego the heavy coats and hand warmers. There are a few things that make spring skiing a different kind of fun than can be found the rest of the season. Continue reading

Buy or Rent? The Best Option for Skis and Snowboards

Everyone knows there are cheaper sports to enjoy than many mountain sports. But, those who are passionate about powder know there is no greater thrill or feeling of freedom than you get from downhill skiing or snowboarding. The question remains, is it more cost-effective to buy or rent? There are a few factors to take into account that could help answer this question for you: Continue reading

Helmet Safety – Are You Wearing One?

It’s not just a fashion statement, more and more skiers and riders are opting in to the idea of wearing a helmet on the slopes for safety. According to a National Ski Areas Association, in the 2009-2010 ski season, 79% of children under the age of nine wore ski helmets. However, only 32% of men ages 18-22 wore them. The NSAA also says helmet use tends to increase with ability level. They say 26% of beginners in 09-10 wore helmets, but 55% of advance riders protected their domes. Continue reading

Time for Service: When Gear Needs Some TLC

Not all skis and snowboards are created equally. Before deciding to buy gear, a little research will go a long way in avoiding unexpected service expenses to keep your equipment in top performance condition. There are more options for cross-country than alpine, but “waxless” does not mean maintenance free. Continue reading

Very First Tracks: When and How Young Ones Should Hit the Slopes

Just as all parents handle raising children uniquely, they also have unique views on when children should begin a sport like skiing or snowboarding. In the extremes parents are skiing with kids strapped to their front or back in a baby carrier back pack – certainly not likely recommended by child safety advocates – while other parents want their kids to wait until they are at least teenagers, hoping maturity will help them maneuver more safely down the hill.

Ski Schools
Most ski schools will accept children starting at age four depending on their maturity and sometimes depending on whether they have an older brother or sister to learn with them. Most experts believe children under the age of four do not have the attention span or muscle strength it takes to really learn and enjoy the sport. Continue reading