First timer guide to skiing

To stay in the foothills of Mont-Sainte-Anne or Stoneham and not try alpine skiing or snowboarding is missing a doorstep opportunity. The sport can be learned at any age. The aspiring downhill skier or snowboarder, however, must consider four points:

What to wear?
What equipment to get?
Where to find instruction?
Where are slopes for beginners?

Clothing

Maintaining your body temperature in varying weather conditions is a tricky business. Because your personal comfort is the starting point, select clothing that is waterproof, breathable and loose fitting. Think in terms of layering by adding or taking off articles depending upon outside temperature and your level of exertion. The innermost layer should be long thermal underwear, either light or medium weight. Choose a fabric with wicking properties such as polypropylene to transport moisture away from the skin. Loose-fitting, insulated shell pants are preferable to tight stretch pants that tend not to be warm, waterproof or particularly comfortable for a beginner. For the upper body, you already have what you need in your closet – a turtleneck with a sweater or fleece (spun pile polyester) shirt. For the outer jacket, you should wear a winter jacket with good insulation. Wear a pair of wool socks, opting for thicker material if you’re renting boots since they’re often one size larger than new boots. Avoid double pairs of socks, which tend to chafe and bulk. For heat retention, a wool hat covering the ears is essential, preferably one with a no-itch headband linger. Select a pair of orange or amber goggles with good air circulation, a double lens and an anti-fog coating. Invest in a good pair of waterproof, breathable mittens or gloves for greater dexterity. The clothing costs range from approximately $300 to $500, but much of this investment can double as street wear, especially in our climate. You can also rent a ski jacket and ski pants for 15 $ at Sports Alpins shop at the base of the mountain.

Equipment

There’s no need to buy your gear at this point. Poles, boots and skis with mounted bindings may be rented at Sports Alpins shop at the base of the mountain and are included in your initiation lesson package.

Instruction

Once you’re ready to hit the slopes, invest in lessons with a professional instructor. Unless you think you need an instructor’s undivided attention in a private class, opt for group lessons for the camaraderie of cost savings. Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance and Canadian Association for Snowboard Instruction has standardized teaching methods nationally, so the instruction will be the same wherever you go. With a wide range of ski and board programs, our qualified instructors have the right program for you. Mont-Sainte-Anne and Stoneham offers adult and children instruction packages from beginner to advanced.

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Slopes for beginners

Slopes for beginners Those people who are just picking up the sport of skiing or snowboarding don’t have to worry about missing out on anything; especially the spectacular scenery that Mont-Sainte-Anne has to offer. The easiest trails are identified by a green circle. Your instructor will show where you should ski after your lesson.