2014-2015 Snow Season is Here
The most glorious part of the year is now finally upon us...ski and snowboarding season. There is only so much time to take advantage of that majestic white powdery goodness. We are putting together this guide to help you find the best gear, the best slopes, and easy places to purchase lift tickets. I know from personal experience that skiing and snowboarding can be a pretty expensive hobby, so saving money while tearing up powder is a great added bonus.
The Gear
Ski and Snow Essentials
Nothing beats the feeling of brand new gear for a brand new season. Brand new gear actually isn't that expensive as long as you know where to shop. The first ingredient of a killer winter wardrobe is a ski face mask.Essential #1: Ski/Face Mask
When it comes to choosing the perfect face mask, there are three basic options that you will come across:
Balaclava Ski Mask: These masks cover your entire head and usually are available in either three-hole or one-hole designs based on your personal preferences.
Full Face Neoprene Mask: The second option you have available to you is a full face neoprene mask. These do not cover your entire head like a traditional ski mask or balaclava. The material might look thin but these face masks pack a warm punch.
Half Face Ski Mask: The last option you have is the half face mask. These masks only cover up the lower half of your face up to your nose. Wearing this in conjunction with a great pair of goggles is my personal preference.
Each type of face mask has it's own pros and cons based on the individual and based on personal tastes. There are hundreds of great styles and designs out there, you should have no problem finding the perfect accessory.
Winter Essential #2: Ski Gloves
It doesn't take a scientist to figure out that snow is cold, really cold, everyone knows that. However, what many people are not aware of is that much on your body's warmth escapes via your head, as well as you appendages like hands and feet. A great pair of ski gloves not only looks great but can keep your body heat up. The gloves also protect you from physical contact with the ice and snow which can actually cause burns if you are not careful. For more casual winter excursions off the slopes you will find flip top gloves which can change from mittens to fingerless gloves and back again.
Winter Essential #3: Beanie/Trooper Hat
The last winter essential is a beanie or trooper hat. Most people know what a beanie is, it is probably the second most popular hat type aside from a baseball cap. What some are unaware of, is a little hat called a trooper hat. In my opinion a trooper hat is one of the most comfortable hats I have ever worn. It is basically a super comfortable beanie that has ear flaps as well as soft fur lining. Another variation of this hat I also love is a trapper hat. This hat combines the versatility of a ball cap with the comfort of a beanie or ear muffs.
Top 5 Mountains You Must Ride
Ski Colorado
Colorado is known as one of the premier locales for skiing and snowboarding. Colorado is just a beautiful place to begin with. The fantastic snow is just an added bonus. Check out the website below for information about season passes, travel packages, and other slope information.
Ski Utah
Utah has a reputation of being the land of the Mormon's. However, there is actually some great downhill action to be had here. This is a great place for beginners, experts, and even families. There are so many runs to choose from and while I have not had the opportunity to experience all that Utah snow season has to offer, it remains one of the premier winter destinations. Visit the Ski Utah website below for more information.
Ski Vermont
Vermont...I never knew Vermont was a top tier ski and snowboard locale. However, after a little research, I am dangerously close to booking a flight. With three big mountains to explore, there is truly something sweet for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and experience levels. Click the link below for more information.
Ski Snow Summit
Being a Californian for my entire life, Snow Summit has been the go-to spot for most of Southern California. Featuring both natural and man-made snow, a great day on the slopes is more affordable than you might think. Check out the link below for season start times, life tickets, and season passes.
http://www.snowsummit.com/ski/
Ski Mammoth Mountain
What I might consider, the Holy Grail of snowboard and ski hotspots is Mammoth Mountain. This mountain offers some of the most fantastic sights, and some of the smoothest rides. Check out the Mammoth website for more information about season times, lift tickets, and 3 month passes.