First Time Skiing Guide

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A simple guide to what first-time skiers should be on the look out for, and what they should take.

Where Should I Go ?

Ok, as a first time skier you need to be looking at ski resorts that are going to suit a beginner, no point just thinking "Chamonix sounds nice, I'll head there" and then getting there only to find out the resort is really geared up to experienced skiers.

Check out our list of the top 10 resorts for beginners for an idea of which resorts would be more suited for your level. If you are taking your family with you as well then this needs to be taken into consideration, as some resorts are more suited to young families than others. You probably wouldn't, for instance, want a resort with a long transfer time if you had a couple of toddlers in tow, having just endured the stresss and strains of a flight with them !

What Clothes Should I Take ?

It's all about layers. How many you'll need depends on what time of year you are going at what the weather conditions are like when you get there. But the basic idea is to take enough layers so that you'll be warm enough if it's particularly cold.

Socks - a couple of decent pairs of thick ski socks will suffice. Dont be tempted to wear more than one pair though. Decent ski-boot fitters will tell you that wearing more than one pair of socks can cause problems rubbing against the skin. And anyway, if the boots are decent and fit properly then one pair of socks will be warm enough.

Gloves - it's worth investing in a decent pair of ski gloves as there's nothing worse than cold or wet hands on the slopes. Thin under gloves are a good idea, you can get them fro about a fiver from Decathlon but add an extra layer of protection. Mittens are also worth considering as an alternative, they do tend to keep your hands warmer.

Other Useful Tips...

Take some Ski Straps - if you've not been skiing before then you won't believe how useful such a small thing can be, especially if you have kids in tow. Ski binders are basically straps to hold the skis together when you're moving them about. Anyone who's battled their way to ski school on that first morning with their skis criss-crossed, ski poles being dropped and a screaming toddler in tow will know what we're on about, and a pair of ski straps will have been the first thing on their shopping list for their next ski holiday.

Groups of skiers can mix things up - if you're going away in a group and some of you are worried about having your skis stolen whilst your in a mountain restaurant or bar then mix your skis up. A piste thief is less likely to go through a mixed up pile trying to find a matching pair. It's more hassle for you, but if you're worried then it will be worth it.