Top 5 Ski Vacation Tips

Moisture management is the key to a comfortable day on the slopes. You can loose up to 30% of your body heat if your skin is wet. Your base layer is responsible for drawing moisture away from your skin and it can only do this effectively if it is clean. The thing to do is to have a fresh pair of socks and thermals each day. Its not realistic to bring 7 pairs of socks and thermals for a week long vacation so simply wash garments out in the sink and hang it to dry - most quality thermals and socks will dry for the following day...if not it might be time for a new set.

2. Pack Apparel in Your Ski Bag

Flying with checked baggage is an issue these days and keeping your luggage below 50 lbs for a ski trip can be a challenge. Each airline has their own set of regulations so check with them before packing up but I have found that padding my ski bag with thermals, socks, jeans and other apparel items not only protects my skis but reduces the amount I have to pack in my duffel bag. Some people fear sharp edges will damage their apparel and while I have not found this to be a serious issue I do suggest NOT packing your expensive pants or jacket in your ski bag - just in case.

3. Dry Your Boots and Gloves Every Night

Your hands and feet can sweat up to an ounce of moisture in a single day of skiing - regardless of the temperature. The linings and insulation of boots and gloves become saturated through the day and if they are not dried out will rob your body of precious body heat the next day on the slopes. It is important to dry your gloves and boots over night by pulling the liner from your boots (see the Willi's Ski Shop Video on How to Dry Ski Boot Liners by owner Greg Klein) and propping gloves open and laying them in front of the refrigerator grill. The refrigerator produces a gentle breeze of warm, dry air that will help to remove moisture from deep within the layered materials so they are completely dry for your next day on the hill.

4. Take Care of Your Goggles

Finger prints, scratches, fog and smudges can decrease the visual clarity of goggle lenses. Careful treatment of your goggles will allow you to protect your eyes without obscuring your vision. Avoid finger prints and scratches with careful handling - always keep them in a special optical bag and pack them carefully with soft garments around them. Touch only the edges of the goggle and never handle the face of the lens. Fog and smudges can be avoided by using a lens cloth and protective cream like Cat Crap to clean your goggles. Never wipe moisture out of your goggles, only dab and never wear your goggles on top of your head - where do you think all the sweat and moisture will go as it steams off of your head? Wearing goggles on top of your helmet is ok as long as it is not over vents but it is best to just take them off and put them in your safety bag (it will absorb any moisture you may be giving off from your body so it doesn't get to your goggles) and into your goggle pocket in your jacket...if you are sweaty make sure your pit zips are open.

5. Take Your Helmet

Many skiers think of leaving their helmet behind because it is a pain to pack but helmets are light and if you fill the inside with small items it doesn't take up much room at all. The key fact is that it is worth the hassle. Extreme conditions and unfamiliar terrain increase your chance of injury and frankly, a helmet is just warmer than a hat.