Spring Skiing; Winter is Over, But the Snow Must Go On!
Posted by admin on Mar 9, 2010
Just because the winter is over, it doesn’t mean the winter sports have to end. Most ski resorts remain open till mid-April, and with longer hours, sunny slopes, plus discounted lift passes and accommodation, spring is an ideal time to head for the slopes for some skiing and snowboarding.
In spring you’ll find the slopes less crowded than during the winter months, and the snow is typically soft and sugary. Other advantages of spring skiing are commonly found with the onset of warmer weather, which sees restaurant and café terraces opening for BBQs and beer sessions, where skiers and snowboarders can sit in the sun and soak up some rays whilst enjoying the mountain scenery.
Spring skiing and snowboarding typically offers a relaxed atmosphere on the slopes, and many resorts hold festivals, parties and carnivals to celebrate the end of another winter. These come in the form of live music performances and fun events such as a “Slush Cup” – where skiers and snowboarders ski down a hill and then try to make it over a big slushy puddle, often in fancy dress. The winners enjoy the glory and applause from the onlookers, the losers end up rather wet!
When skiing in spring, be sure to bring plenty of high factor sun cream, as the intense rays and highly reflective surface of the snow will quickly burn your skin. For the same reason, a good pair of sunglasses is essential to protect your eyes, as you may find wearing goggles gets a little hot. In spring it’s often possible to ski or snowboard in a t-shirt, although it’s wise to carry extra layers too, as it’s not unknown for spring storms to deposit a dump of snow, and you might even get lucky with some spring powder!
Spring is also an ideal time to buy new ski and snowboard gear, as prices are normally heavily discounted at the end of the season as shops seek to clear their stock and get ready for the summer trade.
The best places to head for spring skiing are ski resorts situated above 2500m. Ski area with glaciers such as Whistler will stay open even longer, with lifts running until June.
If you are considering a spring skiing trip, you’ll be able to find a range of options for ski resort accommodation whether you’re heading to resorts in Colorado, Wyoming or British Columbia. So, when the winter’s over, don’t let the skiing stop – spring is one of the best times to head to the slopes for low prices, sugar soft snow and fun in the sun!
Andrew Regan
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/spring-skiing-winter-is-over-but-the-snow-must-go-on-114502.html
Giro Shiv Freestyle Helmet (White No Wave)
Posted by admin on Mar 3, 2010
Giro\’s Shive helmet the ski and snowboard park favorite.
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Hitting the Slopes Without Ski Travel Insurance: Why Take the Chance?
Posted by admin on Mar 2, 2010
It’s a fact: skiing and snowboarding holidays carry with them significantly higher risks than beach holidays or city breaks – which explains why insurers offer separate policies for winter sport getaways. Yet despite the obvious risks, countless Brits continue to hit the slopes without insurance cover, exposing themselves to exceptionally costly medical bills.
A number of things can go wrong on a skiing holiday – the most severe being serious injuries – or, in the worst case, death. But a serious injury isn’t the only thing that can halt the fun on your skiing and snowboarding holiday. Extreme weather issues – such as blizzards and avalanches - could also result in your trip being cancelled; or, you may find yourself the victim of theft. And with expensive equipment like skis, snowboards, and other wintersport gear, theft without insurance is sure to put a damper on anyone’s holiday.
Erik Nelson at insurer Norwich Union told the Independent: “Winter sports is a high-risk activity so you need insurance to cover all eventualities – especially expensive medical costs, which can escalate quickly. For example, a broken leg would incur between £3,500 and £7,000 in medical costs in Europe, but in America this would be £13,000 to £16,000.”
Many Brits turn to their European Health Insurance Cards (EHICs) for cover, which entitles holders to free or discounted medical treatment on the same terms as all nationals in EU states. However, cover is provided solely on a medical basis and is basic – so it excludes things like air ambulances or repatriation. Moreover, because EHICs are only for medical purposes, they don’t cover things like trip cancellations, loss of baggage or personal liability – which can turn out to be extremely costly.
For this reason, <a href=”http://uk.insurancewide.com/insurance/travel/”>ski travel insurance</a> is vital for anyone who’s planning to hit the slopes. Specialised winter sport cover will cover all the aspects of a ski trip that regular insurance and EHICs won’t. And given the high risks and high costs associated with ski trip mishaps, it simply makes sense to secure a policy that caters to your ski trip.
With countless policies available on the market, it can be difficult to determine which level of cover is right for you. But industry specialists recommend about £2m for medical expenses, £1m for personal liability, £3,000 cancellations, £1,500 for baggage cover and £250 for lost or stolen cash.
However, a spokesperson at the Ski Club of Great Britain urges skiers and snowboarders to shape their insurance cover based on what they plan to do on their holiday. She said: “Some policies do cover advanced skiers for off-piste runs but they might not insure beginner skiers who try tobogganing or dog-sleighing. So you need to be sure you are fully insured.”
Harvey McEwan
http://www.articlesbase.com/insurance-articles/hitting-the-slopes-without-ski-travel-insurance-why-take-the-chance-724848.html
Green Snow Holidays – From Bbc Green
Posted by admin on Feb 23, 2010
Here’s our essential guide to skiing and snowboarding the green way
Skiing and snowboarding are not the obvious choice for an eco-friendly traveller. After all, air flights, luxury spas and hacking your way through the pristine snow are a far cry from a tree-planting camp in Devon.
But it doesn’t have to be like that – winter sport is about enjoying the great outdoors, so we’ve looked at some of the best ways to respect it too. Here’s our advice on how to get there, where to stay and what kit you should bring with you.
Take the snow train
If you’re looking for a greener way to the slopes than flying and are tired of the inconvenience of flight delays, then travelling by train could be for you. Thousands of skiers and boarders choose to make their journey to the heart of the slopes this way every season.
Rail Europe’s Snow Trainis an overnight sleeper service from London St Pancras and Ebbsfleet International, Kent, to a number of skiing destinations in the French Alps. There is a specially designated sound-proofed disco carriage, so you can party all night, or if you’d rather save your energy for the slopes, there is comfortable, flat-bed sleeping accommodation.
In many cases, ski train journeys are similar in length to flying. Remember, by train there’s no two-hour check-in time, fewer delays and (on most trains) no long transfers to your resort.
Plus, most independent research says that travelling to the slopes by train produces a relatively small carbon footprint compared to flying or going by car.
It’s worth remembering though that you need to change platforms at Paris before travelling onto the stations at Chambery, Albertville, Moutiers, Aime la Plagne, Landry and Bourg St Maurice.
The Snow Train can also be more convenient if you’re taking your own gear, as there is no charge for carrying your skis or boards in their ski locker. You arrive early Saturday morning and depart last thing the following Saturday, so you get maximum time on the slopes.
Eco-friendly coach travel
Coach travel to the Alps is a long-haul option but it is also great value. National Express’s Eurolines service runs from London Victoria to nine resorts in both France and Switzerland, and there is no charge for skis and snowboards.
The journey takes approximately 18 hours and most coaches leave in the afternoon and arrive early next morning. Reclining seats means you should get a decent night’s sleep and there’s usually a film to watch in the evening.
Greener accommodation
Finding a good value eco-friendly hotel or chalet can feel like an uphill struggle, as they are few and far between. But if you look hard, you can find wood fires, solar panels, and composting heaps among the hot-tubs, spas and gyms.
If it’s composting toilets you’re after you may well be out of luck, but lots of companies are increasingly looking out to protect the environment that their holidaymakers enjoy. Here are some of our favourites…
Whitepod
This unique Swiss eco-camp located above Les Cerniers, a small village at the foot of Dents du Midi, features five wood-fire heated domes around a 19th-century chalet. The igloo-shaped pods are each made from weatherproofed cotton stretched over a storm-proof steel frame, which should keep you snug and warm.
Inside, the pods are lit by petrol lamps and are furnished with recycled or sustainably made furniture. You can only get there on skis or snowshoes and your luggage is delivered via snowmobile, so it’s a good choice if you’re looking to get away from the crowds.
If you don’t want to ski or snowboard you can always go snowshoeing, dog-sledding, relax in the hot tub or try the star-gazing platform with telescope. If you have children, the site also offers an Eco Kids Camp from July to August, which includes wildlife observation, local farm visits, organic picnics and evening games.Winner of the Responsible Tourism Awards 2005 for innovation.
From 325 euros per night including coffee and afternoon tea.
For more information:Whitepod
Whitepod is renovating the camp to cut its footprint and ensure that the level of service remains high. As a result, it will not be open for this coming winter 08/09. However, their mountain refuge, which sleeps up to 60 guests, is open from 1 December 2008.
Green Rides – Challet Montperron
This luxurious 18th century eco-chalet is based just outside Bourg St Maurice. With five large double bedrooms, it includes all the usual chalet amenities such as wi-fi and cable as well an open log fire, spa area and a wood pellet-fired hot tub.
The electricity is sourced from wind and solar farms in northern France. All food waste is composted, the rubbish is recycled and energy efficient light bulbs are used throughout the property. The owners are also planning to install a solar panelled roof and offer a discount to customers who take the Snow Train.A week typically cost from £385 per person.
Green Rides
Karibuni – Lodge Aravis
This 100 year old catered chalet is set in the Aravis Mountains near La Clusaz and sleeps 35 people. It has a gym, sauna and massage room as well as a children’s area and an onsite ski hire shop.France can be hard for veggies but Lodge Aravis has been accredited by the Vegetarian Society, soust ask for their vegetarian menu. All waste is either composted or recycled and they aim to source as much fair trade, local, and free range produce as possible. The chalet also offsets its carbon emissions through Climate Care.
The people behind Lodge Aravis also run a number of other smaller chalets, including Chalet Aravis which can sleep up to 11 people and uses solar panels to heat all of its water.
From £580pp a week (including a lift pass for seven days of skiing).
Location: Aravis Mountain, French Alps. For more information: Karibuni
Green shopping for snow gear
When it comes to being green on the slopes, skis, snowboards and winter gear can pose a problem. Nearly all of them are made of a combination of wood, fibreglass, foam, plastic and steel, which are stuck together by epoxy resin, and are nearly impossible to recycle.
However, many manufacturers are taking green steps, from carbon offsetting to using sustainable materials, such as bamboo, and even solar-powered factories.
New Zealand company Kingswood Skis won a product sustainability award for their bamboo-core carbon neutral skis. They are also looking into a flax alternative to fibreglass which is used in almost every ski and board made today. And they provide a clear breakdown of all the materials used in their products on their website.
Arbor makes its snowboard’s cores from renewable, fast-growing bamboo, which has come from sustainably managed forests and the bases are made with leftover poly-ethylene. They have pledged to donate a portion of all their revenue to organisations involved in protecting the environment. Also, its factory’s machines are wind-powered.
Don’t forget the eco-benefits of buying secondhand gear or renting ski or snow equipment. Freecycle and Ebay are just a couple of online places you could try.
Take a look at our shop now for the best eco friendly shopping.
Green Rewards
http://www.articlesbase.com/environment-articles/green-snow-holidays-from-bbc-green-745771.html
Giro Adult Helmet
Posted by admin on Jan 28, 2010
Wearing a helmet while snowboarding is a natural evolution in wintersports. Giro Helmets represent the apex of technology in protective headgear. This is a Used Giro Ski and/or Snowboard Helmet. The helmet was used in a ski slope rental program, so it does have lots of scuff marks, nicks and
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How normal is wearing a motorcycle helmet while skiing or snowboarding?
Posted by admin on Nov 14, 2009
im a beginner, now i have to ski because i just moved to the mountains in denver for a job
BUT, i had brain surgery so im worried about crashing, falling, hitting my head, whatnot
should i use my motorcycle helmet?
Would have to agree with Bob.
It is not normal. Actually it would be quite odd…
An option that wouldn’t get stares and will help protect would be to get a full face ski helmet.
Since the popularity of extreme skiing competitions have grown, there has been a growth in numbers of skiers/boarders wearing FF helmets on the slopes.
I would check them out. Besides, your neck wouldn’t be as sore from wearing a FF ski helmet compared to a motorcycle helmet.
Ski helmets are soo much lighter, I would at least try a couple on to see if which ski helmet works for you. Just remember that helmets are like shoes. Some fit.. some really don’t.
Only if it was mandated by your surgeon/doctor would I wear one. But then it probably would look really cool if you were on a bike on the slopes with a MC helmet as well.
Good luck. Stay safe. Protect your noggin.
The Increasing Popularity of Skiing Blogs On the Internet
Posted by admin on Nov 4, 2009
Winter sports enthusiasts nowadays have the opportunity to become part of an extensive online community. At present there are myriad specialized websites on the Internet that encourage snow-sports fans to interact, express their thoughts and exchange information and opinions via blogs and online chat, welcoming everyone who desires to integrate in a well-defined winter sports online community. Among the abundance of winter sports online resources, the most famous websites are undoubtedly those that run high-quality skiing blogs.
The main reason why specialized websites that include properly conceived and regularly updated skiing blogs are currently so popular on the Internet is that they benefit from a lot of attention and appreciation from various categories of people such as professional and amateur skiers, as well as ski fans and enthusiasts of traditional, extreme and freestyle skiing (adepts of the original and challenging “newschool skiing” current). Along with snowboarding, skiing is a very popular sport and hobby among people of all ages, people who permanently seek to take their passion to the next level by learning all the subtleties and the secretes of these very appealing sports.
Skiing blogs are a valuable source of information for ski enthusiasts and an appropriate means of interaction for members of the online skiing community. Online resources that run properly conceived, well-structured skiing blogs fulfill an entire series of roles: they keep skiing enthusiasts posted on the latest ski news, rumors, trends, specific events, competitions, gear and accessories; encourage online visitors to exchange thoughts, ideas, opinions, tips and valuable information; offer skiers the opportunity to rapidly become noticed among the skiing community.
Many online resources that run skiing blogs allow website visitors or registered members to access ski resort blogs as well. Ski resort blogs act as complete guides for persons in search of suitable places where they can practice their hobby. Such blogs are regularly updated and provide people with extensive and detailed information on famous or newly inaugurated ski resorts nationwide and beyond the borders. Persons who regularly access ski resort blogs can easily find valuable information on topics such as ski terrain quality, ski resort services and offered commodities, perceived fees, and so on. Along with skiing blogs, ski resort blogs run by dedicated online resources can successfully satisfy the need for information and interaction of both professional and amateur skiers, as well as ski enthusiasts and winter sports fans in general.
So, if you want to find out more information about Skiing Blog or even about Ski Resort Blog, you should click these links.
Groshan Fabiola
http://www.articlesbase.com/art-and-entertainment-articles/the-increasing-popularity-of-skiing-blogs-on-the-internet-68484.html
i have two questions. Do you wear a helmet while snowboarding? and is it hard to ski?
Posted by admin on Nov 1, 2009
i’ve got the hang of snowboarding (meaning i don’t fall every 5 feet, but i fall when people crash into me from the back) is skiing hard to learn? i just want to try it.
and
do you wear a helmet while snowboarding? because i’m thinking of wearing one.
no matter how many people say that im a good snowboarder and i look stupid with a helmet, ill keep wearing my helmet
i rather snowboard and look dorky but love what im doing
then take the risk of never been able to board again
definetly wear it when im doing park or im in the pipe
you never know, you might just wipe out and like you said it could be someone elses fault and you cant control that right? so i definetly dont take that risk
skiing is the opposite of snowboarding
skiing is easy to learn but extremely hard to get good at while boarding takes awhile too learn and get a hang of but easier to get good at
try it! :]
good luck
hollyy
Osprey Switch 16 Ski Pack – ’09 Closeout
Posted by admin on Oct 28, 2009
The Osprey Switch 16 ski pack is ideal for minimalist backcountry skiers and snowboarders. It stows essentials for a day in the mountains. Pack carries a snowboard vertically and skis diagonally or A-frame style, whichever best suits your needs; HDPE foam back panel provides lightweight comfort. StraightJacket compression straps stabilize your load and double as carrying straps for a snowboard or snowshoes. Pack is hydration compatible and features an insulated harness to prevent water freezing in the tube; hydration reservoir sold separately. Internal wet and dry pockets separate your snow safety gear from your extra clothing and food. Large hipbelt pockets provide quick access to energy bars, power gels, lip balm and other small yet important items. Top lid features a stretch-mesh helmet pocket; internal sleeve keeps goggles safe and close at hand. Snow-shedding back panel reduces snow buildup while the bag sits in the snow. Ice axe loop keeps a tool securely attached. 420-denier ripstop nylon side panels resist cuts from ski edges. Closeout.
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Outdoorgb Will Stop You Getting Piste Off When Trying to Find Ski Equipment
Posted by admin on Oct 20, 2009
OutdoorGB will stop you getting piste off when trying to find Ski equipment.
As skiers ourselves here at OutdoorGB, we know how important it is to have quality equipment that will last season after season. Ski equipment shouldn’t be disposable, when buying your equipment you should see it as an investment that will last you, not something to be binned as soon as you get home.
Skiing is an ideal way to relax and forget the stresses of everyday life, but with the wrong equipment your stress-less ski session can turn into one big headache. Fogged up goggles, unbreathable base layers and feeling absolutely freezing are just a few of the hiccups that can threaten to ruin your ski holiday.
We have put together this guide to help you select the best products that won’t be binworthy after a week on the slopes.
Choosing goggles
The most important thing to consider when buying ski goggles is whether you will be able to see properly, especially if you wear corrective lenses. For those who don’t wear glasses, regular ski goggles are the best good choice as they are smaller and more compact than the goggles which fit over your glasses. Those who wear glasses should look out for over-the-glasses (OTG) goggles.
Tints are for varying sunlight conditions and the tint determines how well the contours of the mountain stand out. Yellow or yellow/brown tints are the most popular and will work well in all levels of sunlight.
Goggles should fit comfortably over your helmet, they shouldn’t be pinched or tight on your face. Goggles that fit correctly over your helmet should be able to rest comfortable on the top of your helmet. When pulled down to cover your face, they shouldn’t feel too tight. There should be enough adjustment length in the goggle strap to guarantee that the goggles will fit any size helmet. There is a strap in the back of the helmet that holds the goggle strap in place. Make sure the goggle strap has adjustment room there also. If goggles are too loose, they will not keep the snow and wind out of your eyes. If they are too tight, they will be uncomfortable. So, it’s extremely important to find goggles that will fit you when wearing on your helmet.
When it comes to goggles, newbies who don’t know if they are going to make skiing the hobby of a lifetime, should look to the Bolle Sharkfin Ski Goggles. Offering great value for money at £22.66 at OutdoorGB, the Sharkfin Ski Goggles feature a double lens thermal barrier that provide exceptional optics and a superior seal to prevent fogging. The anti-fogging lenses offer full UVA and UVB protection.
More seasoned skiers who will be spending a bit more money should cast their attention to the Uvex Apache Pro Goggles. The Apache Pro Goggles just refuse to fog up. Good enough for the pros these goggles can take some punishment featuring impact resistant construction and scratch-proof lenses. At £78.83 at OutdoorGB, these googles are a professional product at an amateur price.
Featuring a deeper chamber with frame cut-out, the Bloc Spirit 2 OTG Goggles allow you to wear your everyday glasses to give you the best vision for safe skiing. A vented lens air system helps equalise the temperature between the lenses, thus reducing fogging.
Caring for your goggles
Nobody wants to put on their ski goggles and find that they are scratched or scuffed. Your ski goggles need to be clear for optimal vision. The following tips will help keep your ski goggles clean, clear, and scratch-free.
To keep your goggles smooth and unscratched, always store them in the soft bag they came with when you purchased them. This will make sure that your goggles do not get scratched by other gear in your ski bag. If you do not have your goggle bag with you, you could always store them in your fleece gaiter/neck warmer.
When cleaning your goggles, always use a very soft cloth.
When handling your goggles, treat them gently and try not to touch the lenses.
Do not place your goggles lens-down on the table. Instead, place them so the lenses are facing up towards the ceiling.
Choosing a Ski Helmet
There has been much debate over wearing a helmet whilst skiing, some say it is the preserve of snowboarders, but here at OutdoorGB, hopefully without sounding like you mother, we think it is better to be safe than sorry. To put it this way a crash at 30mph is equivalent to falling onto concrete from a second-floor balcony.
Before you buy a ski helmet you will need to find your helmet size or your “hat size”. Finding this isn’t difficult, as most helmets are sized in centimetres based on the circumference of your head. To get a measurement, use a tape measure around your head, just above your eyebrows.
A good entry-level ski helmet to look at is the Uvex X-Ride Motion Helmet, ideal for both skiing and snowboarding, this helmet will protect your head whilst also meeting EN 1077 and ASTM F 2040 standards.
When it comes to children wearing a helmet is an absolute must, the Uvex Jet Ride Flash Junior Ski Helmet is an ideal helmet to protect little heads. Featuring a climate regulating system, the Jet Ride will ensure your childs head is kept at optimum temperature.
Sorting out your Ski Clothing
Your ski clothing has a bigger impact on your ski day than you might think. Skiing in ill-fitting ski clothes is not only extremely uncomfortable, but it can hinder your performance too.
The ideal way of dressing for skiing is to use different layers. In order of importance, the keys to a successful layering system are warmth, weight, moisture management, and packing the right number of layers. Generally, it is advisable to follow the 3 layer system. The first layer is the base layer which consists of thermal underwear . The middle layer is general clothing or a fleece jacket. Lastly, wear an outer jacket which protects you against the elements.
Although not a traditional item, everyone at OutdoorGB thinks Buff scarves are a perfect item to add to your ski kit.
When optimum performance is necessary, the Helly Hansen Prowool Pants are perfect. Designed to provide warmth, moisture control and overall comfort even in the coldest conditions, this bestseller is available for both men and women.
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With it’s polar bear-like hollow-fibre technology and warm merino wool combination, the Helly Hansen Ice Men’s Crew Top will ensure that you’ll be comfortable and in style all day, even in the coldest temperatures.
The Montane Extreme Jacket is the definitive high-specification soft-shell, lightweight jacket offering comfortable use over a wide range of winter temperatures.
Never think “damn if only I had my gloves and scarf” with the Loki Tak Light Shell Jacket. A sensational high performance jacket, the Tak features integral mittens and scarf that easily stow away when not needed
What to wear “Apres-Ski” – The OutdoorGB guide to fashion off the slopes.
While some skiers choose to stop at the apres-ski scene right after their last run, spending the night in insulating layers, snow pants, and worst of all – ski boots, is not going to make for the most comfortable experience. Consider what you might wear for an ordinary night out, but keep in mind the cold weather. After all, because you’re at a ski resort, you have the excuse to incorporate a few “alpine” pieces (such as what’s already in your ski wardrobe) which you might not be able to get away with at home. As important as fashion might be to your apres-ski attire don’t forget function too. Your apres-ski clothes should be comfortable. Also, if you are coming right from the ski resort, it might be a good idea to remove a few of your layers, because it’s likely that you’re going to heat up quickly in the a buzzing bar or restaurant.
What’s Great to Wear for Apres-Ski
Your Favorite Fleece – A nice fleece jacket is perfect for casual socialising after the last run of the day.
A Vest – Whether it’s fleece or down, a vest can be thrown over the most basic shirt and still look great. Vests are also practical because they can be easily removed if you feel too hot.
A Sweater – A sweater is always a great option for the apres-ski scene. Even if it’s just a sweater that you ski in, a sweater is perfect for the apres-ski scene.
Your Ski Jacket – Especially if your ski jacket fits well and looks modern, it’s great to wear to an apres-ski event. However, if your ski jacket is too bulky to keep track of once you take it off, it might be a good idea to reserve your ski jacket for the actual slopes.
Your Soft Shell Jacket – If you have a soft shell jacket, consider wearing it to the apres-ski scene. After all, it looks great because it just screams “Skier!”
What’s Not so Great to Wear for Apres-Ski
Your Ski Accessories – Ski goggles, ski helmets, ski masks, neck gaitors, and gloves are just too much for a night on the town.
A Ski Suit – If you prefer to ski in a ski suit, don’t wear it for apres-ski, you will overheat, and removing the ski suit will just be an unnecessary hassle.
Heavily Insulated Snow Pants – If you have heavily insulated snow pants, don’t wear them for the apres-ski scene, most likely, you’ll find yourself uncomfortable as they’ll be too bulky and much too hot.
Your Ski Boots – After a long day of skiing, why spend unnecessary time in your ski boots? Indulge your feet and put on a comfortable pair of apres-ski boots, plus, the uncomfortable “ski boot walk” is slightly unattractive and much too awkward in a tight crowd!
Dean Ronnie
http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/outdoorgb-will-stop-you-getting-piste-off-when-trying-to-find-ski-equipment-747725.html
