10 tips for novice winter sports enthusiasts
If it is your first time skiing or snowboarding, the following tips can help you stay safe and be optimally prepared for your winter sports adventure:
- Start in good time. It goes without saying that the best preparation is getting some experience before your departure. It's a good idea to get some classes beforehand. The Netherlands has several indoor or outdoor options to give you an idea of how to position yourself on your skis or your snowboard.
- Make sure you have the right clothing. Whether you opt for borrowing or buying clothing, it's best to work with layers and waterproof clothing, such as thermal clothing, ski socks, a turtleneck, ski pants and ski jacket.
- If you are renting your kit, it is important that you take your time to do so. The right gear is rather crucial for a great winter sports experience: comfortable boots, a helmet and, of course, skis and poles or a snowboard. Be sure to take your time when trying on boots, as there is nothing more annoying than pressure spots or pain while you're zooming down the mountain.
- It's a good idea to also book some lessons on site. Even if you have had lessons in the Netherlands, real snow can be a completely different experience. If you have the opportunity to do so, take some lessons at your winter sports destination.
- Choose your slopes wisely. Slopes are divided into blue (beginner), red (slightly advanced) and black (advanced). If you are a novice skier, it's a good idea to look closely at the signs and map out the right route to avoid being faced with (overly) steep surprises.
- Make sure you are fit and healthy. There is a reason why it's called winter SPORTS. A trip to the mountains requires a lot of energy and you will probably exercise intensively for several hours a day. That is why preventing unnecessary accidents is so important. So, make sure you get enough sleep and don't overdo it on the après-ski ;) And otherwise take it easy for a while so your legs feel firm again on your descent.
- Don't rush yourself. All things are difficult before they are easy, so allow yourself time to master everything.
- Ski resorts for beginners. Be sure to research the right area for yourself ahead of time. Pay attention to the number of blue (and perhaps already red) slopes, so that you can be sure there will be slopes of your own level.
- Use sunscreen. Just like on the water, it is very easy to get sunburnt in the mountains because of the snow when the sun is shining. So, make sure you use plenty of sunscreen several times a day. You can get special ski variants at Dutch drugstores: small tubes that will easily fit into your jacket, with some even including lip balm.
- Be prepared before you travel. The last item on this list... Think hard about items you might need en route to the ski area you are going to visit, such as, snow chains, a motorway vignette, etc.