Who you, a Guru? After you read these 297 Skiing tips, you'll be one. But we're looking to recruit a Guru to blog, write a 101 tip Skiing book, and become a leader of this community.
Hot topics for both consumers and webmarketers on WebmasterRadio.FM
Every Wednesday, 4PM Eastern.
The Insulating Layer of Ski Clothing
The insulation layer is the clothing that is put on over your long underwear. This second layer of clothing helps you retain body heat. It accomplishes this task by creating a layer of still or dead air around your body. Most clothing used for insulation is composed of polyesters that are treated with a process that makes the fibers stand up and trap air between the fibers. Then, the trapped air creates the protective layer of still air that insulates your body from the cold.
Fleece is the most popular fabric used for insulation. It is composed predominantly of polyesters, which are passed through a "napping" machine. This machine creates a fabric that is characterized by a tight solid weave on one side and a fluffy air-retaining surface on the other. There are a few different types of fleece that can be used for insulation. The original fleece, Malden Mills fleece fabrics are marketed under the trademark names Malden Mills ®, Polarfleece ®, and Polartec ®.
Fleece types are categorized by weight. Microfleece is lightweight. It is a suitable insulation layer for cross-country skiing and alpine spring skiing. Medium weight fleece, such as the Polartec TM 200 Series, is popular for skiers because it provides maximum warmth and minimum bulk. However, for very cold days, you might want to consider the warmer Polartec 300 Series. Many skiers choose two insulating layers, such as a turtleneck and a pullover.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Skis.com Tip : How To Choose a Ski Jacket
The ski jacket is the outermost layer of the three-layer system. It should be designed to protect your body from the elements. As such, it is important that ski jackets are composed of waterproof, windproof and breathable materials. Additionally, the seams of the jacket should be sealed with tape, and the zippers should be covered. Make sure that the inner layers of the jacket are also designed to absorb water.
Breathability is another important factor that should be considered when choosing a ski jacket. In order to release the moisture, the jacket should be able to breathe through the fabric itself. However, making a ski jacket that is both waterproof as well as breathable can be quite a task. Fortunately, ski jacket manufacturers have responded to the challenge by creating breathable membranes that are attached to the supporting, waterproof fabric of the jacket.
Others design jackets have zippers under the armpits, which can be opened to create ventilation. Make sure that your jacket has an ample amount of pockets to hold money, hand warmers, etc. Some ski jackets come with an internal pocket, which is an excellent way to protect your valuables. If you ski in extremely cold areas, you might want to choose a jacket that has a hood that is large enough to cover your ski helmet.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
The Ski Clothes No One Sees
Perhaps the most important thing a skier puts on before heading to the mountain is the ski clothes no one sees. Long johns and comfortable socks can be a skiers best friend. If your ski experience is itchy or cold, what is intended to be an enjoyable day on the slopes will soon turn into a miserable day in the crowded and dirty ski resort bathrooms, fixing your undergarments.
Long Johns can be purchased wherever ski clothes are sold. A long john tip: silk long underwear is considered highly effective and thin and comfortable (Really worth the money!).
Quality long johns will last season after season. Ski socks may seem like overkill, but just ask any experienced skier, and they will tell you that “cold feet” under your boots will lead to having “cold feet” when it comes to agreeing to take a long trek down the mountain. These ski clothes may never be seen by the outside world, but they are perhaps the most important thing a skier can put on.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Skis.com Tip : How to Choose Ski Socks
Much to the dismay of boot fitters, ski shop employees and ski instructors, most novice skiers will repeatedly choose the wrong type of ski socks. Of course, these poor choices are completely understandable. Buying ski socks is probably the most counter-intuitive part of buying ski clothes. To see if you are on the right track, answer this question: When selecting ski socks, do you choose the heaviest material possible, and include a sock liner? Isn't that the way to do it?
Not really. Many people think that since you are layering clothing for the rest of your body, you need to do the same for your feet. While this logic is correct, they are forgetting one simple point: Your ski boots are already lined with an insulating layer. If you choose a sock liner, and then add a heavy sock, you are creating two extra heavy layers of insulation, which will in turn cause your feet to sweat, in some case profusely. When your feet sweat, they get wet, and when they get wet, they get cold. The solution is to choose the lightest material of calf length ski socks that you can find. Keep in mind that while some people have cold feet due to circulatory issues, many cold feet problems are due to improper boot fit or improper technique. For example, if you clench your toes while skiing, you will be cutting off the circulation in your feet. Feet that lack circulation have a hard time staying warm. Check out the extensive selection of Smartwool, Fox River, and Hot Chillys socks at Skis.com.
One final thought: Size matters. Ski socks that bunch up will cause improper boot fit.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Choosing the Right Ski Gloves for You
Comfort on the slopes is essential to an enjoyable skiing excursion. Ski gloves are an important part of a skiers comfort level. When choosing ski gloves, take your comfort seriously by choosing the right glove for you. Here are a few things to be sure to get when you buy ski gloves.
A Good Fit – Holding your ski poles can get pretty difficult when you are tackling a tough course or rugged terrain. Ensure that you have a good fit from your ski gloves and that they allow you the best sensation of touch from your hands.
Warmth – Hands can get pretty chilly when racing down the slopes, so make sure that you keep your hands warm with your ski gloves. Different gloves have different methods of insulation so try many different types until you find the best match for you.
Second Skin – The ideal ski gloves will give a skier a sensation of having a second skin. This means that when you grip anything from your poles to a warm cup of coffee, you feel as if you have no gloves at all.
Because of advances in thermal insulation, you can find ski gloves that give you the warmth you need without being so bulky as to make actually using your hands difficult. Choosing the right ski gloves is important to any skier who wants optimal comfort on the slopes. Shop wisely for your ski gloves and you will get the most out of your lift time.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Skis.com Tip : How to Buy Ski Gloves
Most people will agree that cold hands can ruin a great day at the slopes. However, quite often, people will spend exorbitant amounts of money on their ski equipment and ski clothes, but then go to a discount store for a cheap pair of gloves. There are a number of factors that need to be considered when buying ski gloves. First of all, they should of course be warm enough to withstand even sub-zero temperatures. They should also be made of a waterproof fabric. Additionally, they should be flexible enough to allow you to comfortably hold your ski poles. This is why it is advisable for skiers to choose ski gloves, as opposed to snowboard gloves.
Always make sure that your gloves taper toward the wrists. This will keep the heat from escaping from your body. For added grip support, look for gloves that are designed with a synthetically reinforced abrasion-resistant palm. The ideal pair of ski gloves also act as a moisture wicking thermal lining that will keep your hands dry, should they begin to sweat. If you tend to have really cold hands, consider mittens or leather palm.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Ski Clothing vs. Outdoor Apparel
Many beginner skiers are worried about the overwhelming expense associated with beginning this new hobby. As a college student, getting friends to be willing to fork over enough dough to buy airline tickets, lift tickets, ski rentals…the list goes on and on. Its no wonder that beginner skiers hope to save some money by not buing the appropriate ski clothing.
But the truth is, all the money spent on the slopes will be a wash if a skier does not invest in the appropriate ski clothing. A skier will be cold, uncomfortable and will have difficulty moving down the mountain if they are not wearing the appropriate ski clothes. Ski clothing can be pricy, but it is an investment it your skiing success if you take the time (and money) to look into the choices in ski clothing and buy the best for your body and budget.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Skis.com Tip : I Just Made You Say Underwear
When choosing a baselayer or long underwear, keep in mind that wicking ability makes synthetic fabrics a better choice than cotton. While cotton absorbs moisture, synthetics move it to the outside of the fabric, where it magically evaporates. In fact, most long underwear fabrics such as Polypropylene have been treated with special chemicals that improve their wicking abilities. Keep in mind that if your long underwear is too baggy, its wicking abilities will be reduced.
When shopping for long underwear, you will notice that it comes in different weights. Lightweight works for spring skiing or for skiers that tend to sweat profusely. Midweight long underwear is best for most skiers, except for those that are always cold. In that case, you should choose heavyweight long underwear. As far as style goes, for pants, always go with either full or three quarter length. However, for proper boot fit, make sure that you do not tuck your long underwear into your boots! For tops, choose between crew neck and turtleneck. For odor control, some fabrics are treated with a microbial chemical that eliminates the stink factor.
Some of the most popular manufacturers of skiing long underwear include Patagonia,Hot Chilly, Spyder, Under Armour, Nils, North Face and Smartwool.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
The Difference between Men's and Women's Ski apparel
Ski apparel is one thing spouses certainly shouldn't share! Not only would you have difficulty going skiing together, but Women's Ski Apparel is made specifically for a women's body. Since ski apparel is such a huge part of the skiing experience, women's ski apparel is not only fashionable, but built to make the skiing experience a comfortable “ride down the mountain.”
Women's ski apparel, espcially ski jackets leave more room in the chest, less in the crotch, and fits a women's waist to hip ratio. Unlike men's apparel, women's ski apparel is designed with a woman in mind. There are so many styles and colors available! Women should enjoy the selection and, ultimately, the comfort of their very own ski apparel.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Skis.com Tip : The Layering System
Because of the new high-tech fabrics, the layering system of cold weather dressing traps body-warmed air between layers of clothing while allowing moisture vapor from perspiration to escape through breathable outerwear materials. The layering system is made up of three important components:
The inner moisture-wicking layer, also known as thermal underwear.
The middle insulating layer, which usually involves a fleece turtleneck.
The outer shell layer, which a wind and water-resistant ski jacket.
The beauty of this system is that allows skiers to shed layers during periods of high exertion and add layers should temperatures suddenly plunge. However, it is important to choose garments that are lightweight and compressible. For example, if you need to take off your pullover, it should easily fit into a small bag or sack.
Your first layer of clothing is your long underwear or wicking layer. Its function is transfer moisture away from your skin. Your next layer should be designed for insulation. Most skiers prefer a fleece turtleneck. The outer layer, which is your ski jacket, should be composed of a breathable, waterproof and windproof fabric. For extra cold days, the layering system can be used with your helmet and ski goggles. A balaclava is a lightweight form of headgear that fits under your ski helmet. Since it combine a head covering and a neck gaiter, it protects both the head and neck from cold temperatures. If you tend to have cold hands, you can also use a layering system for your gloves. Most ski shops sell lightweight glove liners, which are perfect for sub-zero weather.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Gloves with Mittens - A Great Solution for the Slopes
For skiers looking for the freedom that gloves provide combined with the warmth that comes with a good pair of mittens, there is a solution. You do not need to carry around a separate set of mittens and gloves anymore. Some of the largest manufacturers of ski gloves are now introducing models of high performance gloves that include an attached set of mittens.
Mittens provide your whole hand with warmth, but do not allow the freedom of your individual digits. With combination gloves and mittens you can get the best of both worlds without taking up valuable real estate in your ski bag. Look for these combination gloves and mittens at any ski retailer. You can find a huge selection online if you look in the right places. Look for other great tips about ski gloves and mittens here at LifeTips and from our sponsors.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Skis.com Tip : How to Choose Ski Pants
If you are new to skiing, you should keep in mind that you do need ski-specific pants. Whatever you do, do not show up at a ski slope in a pair of jeans! They soak up moisture, and you’ll be cold and uncomfortable. Ski pants are designed to keep you warm, comfortable and dry. You should look for pants that are made with a two-layer construction. The inside layer of ski pants is responsible for insulation. However, it should be composed of a soft and breathable fabric. Since the outer layer comes in direct contact with the environment, it should be composed of a fabric that is waterproof, windproof and breathable. Also, while in the boot ski pants might look good, they will do little to keep the snow out of your boots.
Some ski pants come with suspenders. These help the ski pants stay up, so that you don’t have a gap between your pants and your back. However, for ladies, this involves taking your ski jacket off when you go to the restroom. At some resorts, this can be a cold proposition. While number of pockets is a personal preference, keep in mind that it is best to distribute items equally between your pants and your jacket. Some ski pants actually have an extra pocket located in the leg of the pant.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Features of Ski Racing Gloves
Not all ski gloves are made the same. Just as there are skis and poles made for different styles of skiing, there are gloves made for different styles as well. Ski racing gloves are a variation of ski gloves that are very different than standard ski gloves. The needs of a skier who races are far from the needs of an everyday joy-rider.
To fill these needs, manufacturers have developed ski racing gloves that fit these needs… well… like a glove. Because of the need for an aerodynamic ride, ski racing gloves are not nearly as bulky as standard ski gloves. The materials that ski racing gloves are made of are highly advanced insulation agents that need only a few millimeters to keep a skier's hands warm. Racing at high speeds can cause wind chill on hands to increase greatly.
These advanced forms of insulation can withstand the fastest of races and the coldest of winds. Ski racing gloves are also far thinner than standard racing gloves because of the reduced weight that comes with them. Aerodynamics is one way to get faster, but shedding extra weight is the best way. To make lighter gloves, manufacturers have taken synthetic fabrics to a new level of comfort and fit. Ski racing gloves are getting thinner and lighter all the time and the more they get of both, the faster you will be able to go.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Timeless Ski Apparel Fashions
There are really two things I consider when purchasing ski apparel. The first is whether it will keep me warm and safe during the coldest and most extreme skiing conditions. The more durable and weather resistant the fabric, the more likely your ski apparel will give you many years of comfortable skiing.
The second thing I consider is whether the style of my prospective ski apparel is whether the apparel is timeless. I only ski a few times a season, and I want to know that I will feel confident pulling out my ski pants and jacket season after season and knowing that I will be able to look stylish and fashionable. This usually means primary or basic colors and no flashy detailing. It also means buying what looks good on me, not what the fashion magazine say is the hottest ski apparel at the moment.
As long as you consider these two criteria, you should have no problem wearing your ski apparel year after year.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Skiing and Snowboard Accessories by Bakoda
There are many manufacturers of snowboarding accessories on the market and each offer varying ranges of products. Bakoda is one of the largest of these manufacturers and they are big for a reason. Bakoda is knows for great quality in all of their snowboarding accessories. Here are a few of the snowboarding accessories that Bakoda has put out there for you.
The Retracting Cable Lock – If security on the slopes is a concern for you, than the Bakoda retractable cable lock is a great solution. This lock was specifically designed for cold weather and its cable can safely hold up to three boards. Because the cable is retracting, this powerful lock is small enough to fit in any nook in your pack.
Bakoda Superfeet Boot Inserts – Most boots are not the softest of the feet. Bakoda has developed the Superfeet boot insert to help give you a better ride.
The unique combination of shape and material gives you comfort beyond any standard boot. For the full range of accessories available from Bakoda, check out the many retailers that carry their lines of products. You can also get all the info you need from their website where they have their whole product catalogue on display.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Mittens – The Secret to Warmth in the Cold
There is no doubt that mittens on average are warmer than gloves. They allow four fingers to use each other for warmth on the coldest days. Children who do not rely on poles for skiing will find mittens most comfortable to maintain warmth on cold days, as will snowboarders and other skiers who are forgoing poles.
Mittens can be made of the same materials as gloves, hover, due to their unique shape, they allow more warmth to be maintained on even the coldest days. Mittens may even be often part of the wardrobe of professional skiers, who may have no problem gripping a pole with their hands enclosed by the mitten shape.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Options Abound when Purchasing Ski Gloves
These days, it seems that there are more styles of ski gloves than people to wear them! Especially with internet providers, a skier can purchase almost any kind of ski glove he or she wants, in a size and color that fits their personality. Good ski gloves move and stretch with your hands and most find them very comfortable. Once you find a reputable dealer, have fun experimenting with styles and colors. Ski gloves can take you from season to season, yet are inexpensive enough to replace each year.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Dakine Ski Gloves - A Selection Like None Other
If you are in the market for ski gloves or mittens and want the largest selection, there is only one manufacturer that stands out. Dakine is a leader in all sorts of skiing accessories, but when it comes to gloves, they have more models than anyone else on the market. In total, Dakine has hundreds of variations of ski gloves and mittens. Each is designed for different styles of skiing and comfort tastes.
Dakine ski gloves are available for men, women, boys, and girls. Their sizing can fit any skier. They have different series of gloves for each type of skier and each is made with the highest standards of quality. Check out the Dakine website to see for yourself how many different types of ski gloves they offer. Their gloves are available from any number of retailers, so once you find the style you like, you can find them with ease. Be sure to shop for Dakine gloves online as there are major discounts to be found.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
The Gloves verse Mittens Debate
There will always be factions on either side of the ski glove vs. ski mitten debate and warmth is not the only battle ground. For instance, dexterity when skiing can be just as important a factor as warmth. No matter how warm your fingers may be, if you are learning to use poles for the first time, mittens will only make the process more difficult.
A novice skier needs flexibility in almost every body part in order to be successful on the slopes. By wearing gloves instead of mittens, a newer skier will be able to grip the pole and adjust his or her hand to the poles movement down the mountain. And a god grip on the poles can be the difference between going feet first as opposed to head first down the mountain!
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Your Regular gloves are not the same as Ski Gloves!
Ski gloves provide your hands with warmth and dryness unlike your normal pair of winter gloves. They also allow for more dexterity so that you can wrap your hands securely around your ski poles. While your regular gloves may feel very similar, specially designed ski gloves will help you stay warm and dry on the slopes.
Ski gloves are made with a special insulate material to help keep the cold moisture away from your fingertips. Your fingers go numb very easily in the cold and specialized ski gloves can help avoid this. Once you are at the top of the mountain, you will thank yourself for purchasing ski gloves for your memorable trip!
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Technical Performance Apparel
As ski and boot technology becomes more complex and sophisticated, ski apparel manufacturers have begun to apply science and technology to ski clothing. Perhaps the most interesting outcome of this research has been the development of performance ski underwear. While this sounds rather humorous, there are many skiers that swear by the effectiveness of products such as Sport Skins and CW-X.
Sport Skins were the original invention. Developed in Australia, this product works on a principle of BioAcceleration Technology, which involves compression that is applied over specific body parts. This compression triggers an accelerated blood flow, which in turn increases oxygen delivery to working muscles, thereby enhancing their performance.
These improvements in circulation also aid in the elimination of lactic acid and other metabolic wastes. According to the Sport Skins website, testing of elite athletes have proven that this technology "creates marked improvements in reducing the build-up of lactic acid immediately after periods of sustained exercise."
These body-molded compression tights are manufactured from Lycra and Meryl Microfibre. They are engineered to provide support and muscle alignment to the covered area of your body. The company has created a product for snow sports that is appropriately called Snow Skins, which are designed to improve on -slope performance "through greater muscle support and response, enhanced circulation and improved body temperature control."
Snow Skins have been designed to wrap around important muscle groups in order to focus the direction of their movements. The product has moisture wicking properties. It is embedded with an antimicrobial and antibacterial treatment that keeps it smelling fresh.
LifeTips is part of ideaLaunch, the hub for a group of websites offering
solutions that help clients improve mind share, market share and profit online.
