Long before the snowflakes fly on the plains, Kansans who ski and snowboard are checking snow reports and lift ticket prices. Colorado’s mountain resorts are just a day away — are you ready? Here are some tips to get yourself and your gear in shape for the slopes.
BODY
Snow sports seem to give you muscles you never knew you had — and then hurt them. Simple exercises will help you condition the areas that need it most — and you can do them at home.
Wall sits work the upper thighs that stay flexed most of the time you’re on skis. Simply back up to a wall and slide down until your quads are parallel to the ground, hold, and repeat. Mimic the motion of skiing by stacking a few books on the floor and hopping over them, side to side, while looking straight ahead. For balance, stand on one foot for as long as you can, then switch. Finally, give your shoulders some attention by holding your arms out to your side for extended periods. Anything else you can do to condition your butt, thighs, lower back, stomach, and shoulders will help.
GEAR
If you’re renting equipment, visit an outfitter such as The Slope in Wichita to find the best ski type for you. Shaped skis are popular with novices, while advanced skiers have more options than ever in ski features. Helmets are becoming more widely available to rent or buy as well.
For clothing, layers are key, but don’t overdo it. Skiing and snowboarding is a lot of work, and you’ll be warmer than you think, especially if it’s sunny. Three layers usually do the trick. Next to your skin, wear material that wicks away moisture (not cotton). Next, put on an insulating layer, usually a sweater or fleece sweatshirt. Top it off with a coat that protects you from the weather. You can always peel away layers if it gets too warm. For your legs, long underwear and waterproof pants are the classic combo. Socks should be wool or acrylic, but nothing too thick or you’ll get blisters. Remember what your mother always said, and wear a hat, as well.
GROUP TRIPS
Kansans are fond of the overnight bus trip to the mountains, and most Colorado resorts are reachable in that time frame. Group trips are great for those who don’t want to hassle with finding a hotel or condo; the planning is done for you.
This season, The Slope’s Education Overland is planning trips to Summit County, Crested Butte, Monarch, Winter Park, Taos and Steamboat Springs. Visit www.slopeskishop.com for details. The Wichita Ski Club is also organizing trips to Crested Butte, Winter Park, and Steamboat Springs. Find out more at wichitaskiclub.com. Many churches and other clubs plan ski trips too, so check with any of your group affiliations.
TRENDS
Like everything else in the world, snow sports are going high-tech. For the ultimate in skiing comfort, heated boots, gloves, and jackets are now available — for a price. If you’re willing to drop more than $250 for toasty hands and fingers, Outdoor Research’s PrimoVolta Gloves has the pair for you. Heated snowboarding boots from Burton will set you back about $220, compared to $150 or so for a non-heated pair. Or, if you’re into performance, high-end skis from Salomon and Volkl are adjustable for different conditions and terrain. And you’ll never be out of touch, even at 9,000 feet, with ski jackets that boast multimedia controls and headphone ports.
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