Are you going on your first winter sports holiday this coming winter? In this article, we will answer all your questions about your first winter sports trip, so you'll be optimally prepared and won't forget any important things. If you pack the right clothes, choose an easy ski resort and build up some fitness before departure, you will enjoy your first winter sports holiday much more.
Make sure to keep warm during your first winter sports holidays, or you won't have much fun! Use the three-layer system of clothing: the base layer, the insulation layer and the outer layer. As the base layer, wear thermal underwear that will keep you dry and warm. The middle layer should be a ski sweater or fleece vest for protection from the cold. The outer layer should be waterproof and consists of ski trousers and a ski jacket. Inexpensive skiwear is also regularly on sale at the supermarket (Lidl/Aldi).
Most people wear ski helmets on the slopes these days. When buying a ski helmet, pay close attention to the size. It should be snug enough; the helmet should not fall off if your head hangs upside down (without the chin strap). But it should be loose enough that you don't feel any pressure.
On sunny days, sunglasses can suffice, but it is wise to wear ski goggles. Ski goggles protect the entire area around your eyes and offer better visibility in bad weather. It is essential that ski goggles fit your face and ski helmet well and that they stay in place.
With skiwear, a ski helmet and ski goggles, your ski outfit is not yet complete. Do not underestimate the importance of good ski gloves and ski socks. A warm scarf/buff can also be very nice if you ski in cold weather. And for après-ski, of course, you need an eye-catching hat!
Now that your outfit is complete, you can focus on your ski equipment. For your first winter sports holidays, we recommend renting the ski equipment instead of buying it. Clearly state that you are a beginner so that you are sent out with skis, ski boots and ski poles that suit your level, height and weight. Only borrow ski equipment from acquaintances when their equipment suits you perfectly. Skis that are too long or ski boots that are too stiff can ruin your first winter sports trip.
Choose a ski resort with many easy runs for your first winter sports destination. A small beginner's ski resort with a good practice area and some sloping blue runs will be perfect for your first metres on the slopes. Ski areas that meet this requirement are, among others, Turracher Höhe, Ehrwalder Alm, Les Saisies, Adelboden-Frutigen-Lenk and Skiliftkarussell Winterberg.
Taking ski lessons during your first winter sports holidays is a good idea. If you learn the right skiing techniques with an experienced ski instructor, you will benefit from this later on. You can also take some lessons at an indoor snowpark in the UK before you set off on your holidays. This way, you'll get some head start.
Your first winter sports holiday will have quite an impact on your body. You will use muscles you didn't know existed and be active high in the mountains. Prepare your body for your ski adventure with some ski exercises and get yourself in good (basic) shape. Learning to ski will be a lot easier if you're fit.
Don't expect to master skiing overnight. Especially the first days can be very trying. Afterwards, you will see that you are progressing and make the step to your first blue run. Don't throw in the towel after a few falls; the first metres on skis are tough for everyone!
Having fun is also essential during your first winter sports holidays! In good company, you will enjoy your first time on the slopes much more! After skiing lessons, go to the après-ski, have dinner together and play board games in the evening. It's all part of winter sports!
I grew up in Slovenia, close to the Julian Alps. Early on, my parents put me on skis and skates, and the winter sports enthusiasm hasn't left me since. I also enjoy cross-country skiing and have been a keen snowboarder for the past 20 years.
