Alpine skiing is basically a lifelong sport; which means that you can learn it at any age. However, children have the special advantage of being agile, flexible and somewhat fearless. It is no surprise that the teachers in ski schools prefer ‘tutoring’ young children; sometimes, as tender as age 3!
However, being a parent, you must be concerned about keeping young bundle of joy as safe and comfortable as possible during the skiing seasons. Accordingly, make sure that you remember the following pointers…
Rule #1: Keep Them Cozy
In no way underrate the vagaries of weather. Even a fine bluebird day can develop into full-on wintry conditions by the time you take your child to ride on the chairlift. With a beginning-level skier, getting downhill can take some time, so make sure that you make arrangements to keep your children warm while they learn to ski, otherwise they might catch a bad cold.
Rule#2: Never Compromise With the Proper Ski Outfits
Sports stores might show you an array of ski outfits and accessories, making it hard for you decide on what to buy and what to avoid. However, while narrow in on your shopping list; make sure that you have bought at least the following:
- Jacket: Remember that your children require being warm while riding up, but not uncomfortably sweaty while skiing downhill. The solution is to buy a quality insulated, breathable jacket that comes with a tuck-away hood. Even if the jacket has an in-built hood, then check it would fit snugly over the ski helmet. Also, having a hip-length is ideal.
- Pants: they should be insulated, waterproof and breathable, as well. Additionally, look for pants having ankle gaiters inside, so that the snow does not get into the ski boots. Optimally go for bib-type pants or high-waist products.
- Long underwear: They should not be too tight on young children, and preferably made from synthetic materials or have base layers of merino wools.
- Insulating Layer: While skiing on really cold days, children can wear a light wood top or a fleece over their underwear. Again, avoid cotton materials in this regard.
- Neck Gaiter: Keep this handy to shield the ears, neck and lower facial area from sunburn and wind. To ensure maximum warmth, minimal itch and odor even after long hours of wear, choose items made from polyester or merino wool. Make sure that you can and air-dry these gaiters regularly.
- Socks: Keep at least two pairs of socks handy and the things you buy should extend above the calf. Again, say no to cotton while choosing ski socks and go for something containing a mixture of wool and polyester.
- Goggles: No Ski Racer, young or old should be without medium-tinted, all-condition wearable goggles. They are reasonably priced and once bought, they can last for 2-3 seasons under proper care. You can also buy helmets and goggles that come together as a package. They are designed to work in concert in order to ensure that there will be no ‘gaper gap’ on the tiny foreheads.
- Mittens: Remember that mittens and not gloves work better to ensure warmth to the little hands. Your young ones will love rip-and-stick closure pocket type mittens, with wrist cuffs long enough to extends either over or under jacket cuffs by a few inches. And make sure to choose waterproof, yet breathable materials.
- Hand warmers: The heat pouches will be your child’s best friend while on the slopes. They are easy to use, as well.
It takes quite many things to complete shopping for your little skier. But the investment is worth every penny, for sure.
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