If you are on the ski trip of a lifetime, you will no doubt want to spend as much time as possible out on the pistes and enjoying the snow. However, there are some things that you should make sure to double-check each day, so you can be certain that you will be able to keep yourself as safe as can be throughout your adventures.
The Route
Even if you are a regular at the resort or ski runs that you have chosen, this is no guarantee that the routes that you are used to following are going to be unchanged. Even from season to season, there could have been significant changes that have meant that your favourite ski routes have been altered or even closed. Things could even change on a daily basis if there has been a storm or other major weather changes.
If you are at a new resort, you also need to make sure that you know where you are going when you hit the slopes. There is always a chance that you might end up on a run that is not to your skill level if you don’t know where you are going, but this could be nothing but dangerous. Make sure that you know your route before you set off, and make sure you have a way of checking your position when you are on the slopes too.
The Weather
In an ideal world, we will have fresh snowfall overnight but a clear and beautiful day that we can take full advantage of as we ski. However, the weather can change in a moment, especially in the mountains. Though you might see nothing but blue skies when you look out your window in the morning, you don’t want to end up skiing into a sudden snowstorm.
By looking at tools such as Piste Pro, you should be able to find weather reports and other important details that can dictate how long you spend out on the slopes each day. You might find that you can get a few hours of skiing in during the morning but come the afternoon it might be better to head inside and relax in your lodge.
Equipment
A skier is only as good as their equipment. Whether you are renting or you have your own, you need to make sure that you check your equipment to ensure that it is in a good condition. This includes not just your skis but also other equipment like your snowsuit and goggles. If they are in any state of disrepair, you should think about replacing them.
Skis can wear out over time. If you are hiring them, the rental shop should do the necessary checks to guarantee that you are buying a safe pair. However, you should still perform a few checks to ensure that you are ready to hit the slots. If you own your own skis, watch for them beginning to lose their spring underfoot. This is a clear indicator that they are “dead” and are in need of replacing.
These are all basic checks that you should make before you head out on the pistes for the day. Set yourself up a little routine and mental checklist to go through before you even think about going. This is incredibly important, and it is a necessary part of keeping yourself safe throughout your trip. Don’t forget to have fun and enjoy yourself as you ski, but make sure that you are taking basic safety precautions so that you don’t end up in trouble!