The ongoing pandemic has encouraged many of us to try new outdoor activities, and skiing this winter is no exception. But if you’re heading to the slopes for the first time, it can be hard to figure out what gear you should buy ahead of time, and what you should rent. After all, skiing can be an expensive hobby, especially when you add up the cost of lift tickets, equipment, and technical clothing. Here’s exactly what to rent and what to buy as a first-timer so you can save yourself some bucks.
Rent
Boots
Avid skiers often invest in a pair of custom fitted boots for extra comfort, because a pair of ill-fitted ones can seriously dampen a first experience by leaving you with blistered feet. But experts at the rental shops can get you fitted properly and if you decide to continue skiing regularly after your first few attempts, then a pair of boots is one of the first things you should invest in.
Skis
When you’re skiing for the first time, it makes financial sense to rent your skis. Rental shops are often equipped with the most up-to-date technology, which allows you to try out the latest equipment. Plus, the skis will be set up according to your ability, as well as that day’s conditions. Renting also saves the hassle of transporting your skis to the lodge, and you won’t have to worry about extra baggage fees if you decide to travel long distances to different resorts post-pandemic.
Poles
Whether or not beginners should learn to ski with poles is a passionate debate among experts. Some argue that learning without poles will help you build good posture and habits, as well as encourage you to find your body’s center of balance without over-relying on them. But if you decide you need poles to help with your coordination, be sure to rent them for now. As you excel at the sport, there are several different types you can choose from that will help with speed and maneuverability. But for now, any pair of poles appropriate for your height will do.
Helmet
Count on repeatedly falling as you learn to balance your body and glide swiftly on the powder, so be sure to rent a helmet to protect your head. Once you’ve decided that you want to keep skiing, invest in a helmet so you can go on to purchase some goggles that will be compatible with it.
Buy
These personal items that we recommend buying can double for other outdoor winter adventures, like rainy day walks, winter hikes, and camping.
Thermal Layers
Thermal tops and bottoms keep you warm and dry by regulating your body temperature and wicking away sweat. This polyester Omni-Heat 3D™ Knit Crew II Baselayer Shirt by Columbia is ideal for any high energy activity as it provides breathable warmth and dries quickly.
Buy it here for $85: Men’s | Women’s
Midlayer
Create a layering system that works for you by adding a midlayer directly over your base layer. This way, you can easily add or take away as conditions on the mountain change. The Patagonia R1 Pullover provides all the warmth without the bulk of the classic fleece because of its gridded interior. This one comes in crew, but go for the ¼ zip and hoodie varieties if you want some additional venting.
Neck Gaiter
This lightweight and versatile BUFF Midweight Merino Wool neck gaiter keeps your neck warm on especially cold days and wicks away moisture and sweat. And because resorts now require a face-covering while you’re in lift lines, on the gondola, and in any indoor public space to limit the spread of the coronavirus, this neck gaiter can double up as a mask.
Ski Jacket
The Patagonia Insulated Snowshot is ideal for resort skiers and delivers maximum warmth and protection from the elements when worn over a base and midlayer. Patagonia’s waterproof H2No® technology keeps you dry, and its pit zips help regulate body temperature as you work up a sweat. This also comes in an uninsulated shell and a 3-in-1 jacket, depending on your needs.
Buy it here for $329 : Men’s | Women’s
Snow Pants
This bestselling weatherproof pant will keep you dry when you fall and offers breathable warmth as you exert your body. As a budget option for beginners, these Arctix pants offers high performance for their price and fit comfortably overtop thermal layers.
Socks
Spring for these Smartwool PhD Ski Medium socks, which are long enough to protect your shins while you’re wearing your boots, and are soft and comfy enough for all-day wear. This pair features Smartwool’s “Indestructawool” technology and boasts extra padding at the toes and heel for longer-lasting wear. These also fit snugly and provide support under the arch.
Gloves
These Gordini GTX Storm Trooper gloves are warm and durable without breaking the bank. Their Gore-Tex lining makes them waterproof, and the gloves come with a zippered handwarmer pouch for those extra chilly days.
Buy it here for $55-$70: Men’s | Women’s
Goggles
Aside from protecting your eyes from the wind, snow, and harsh UV rays, a pair of anti-fog goggles can also help you stay concentrated on the terrain. Goggles sometimes aren’t available for rent, but the Smith Range Goggle is a top budget choice for beginners, and its anti-fog coating and foam cushioning means these can sit comfortably on your face for long stretches of time.
It may seem like a lengthy list of buys for a ski experience, but these items will serve you well no matter where your winter adventures take you.
