6 Tips for Hitting the Slopes This Spring

Cold beers. Light layers. Warm temps.

Ski season ain’t over yet! Here’s a little secret: most people are too excited for the spring season to even think about the slopes, which means the ski mountains will be less crowded. If you’re an avid skier, you’re probably snapping on your skis right now. And if you’re a beginner, it’s the perfect time to take ski lessons and learn a few new tricks (bonus, falling on your butt won’t hurt as much on the soft snow)!

Let’s get to it. Here are 6 ways to prepare for spring skiing like a boss!

• Bruh, Start Early

  Start early in the morning as snow conditions will go from icy and firm in the morning to wet and slushy in the late afternoon. If you prefer skiing on softer snow, then mid-day skiing might be your best option (just don’t ski when it’s too sloppy as you can hurt yourself!). However, if you start early in the day, you can wrap up early and still have time to enjoy mid-day spring festivities (i.e. music fests, outdoor apres ski cocktail, etc.).

  Protip: Make sure your skis are tuned to adapt to the changing spring conditions. It’ll make all the difference and keep your skis from sticking to the snow. The last thing you want is to ruin your ski trip!

• Layers Are Your Friends

  Ditch your heavy winter coat, snow pants, and heavy gloves. Spring temps will change on the slopes and you’ll warm up throughout the day. It’s best to wear light layers that will keep you warm and give your body room to move. If it gets too hot, you can easily peel off layers.
  Here are suggestions that’ll keep you spring skiing all day long:

  • Lightweight ski jacket
  • Ski pants (with zip open thigh vents)
  • Lightweight mud pants
  • Protective sunglasses
  • Lightweight spring skiing gloves
  • Lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers
  • Thin ski socks
  • Ski helmet with vents

• SPF Yo Face!

  The sun can be really strong at high-altitude, especially during spring weather. Make sure to apply sweatproof sunscreen (30 SPF or higher) to your face and other exposed skin areas, including your arms that will be exposed when you peel off layers. It’s best to apply sunscreen prior to heading out on the slopes. Your sensitive skin will thank you!
  Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

  Dehydration is no joke. Between the strong sun, high-altitude, dry air, and cold beers — don’t forget to drink plenty of water. You’ll definitely sweat more than you’re used to on warm spring days so make sure to drink water before, during and after your runs. And, no, beer does not count as hydration!

• Wear Your Shades!

  While traditional ski goggles may be too hot to wear for spring weather, you still need to protect your eyes. If you decide that ski goggles are too much, you can easily swap them for sunglasses. Pack your sunnies regardless of weather predictions. You never know when the sun will make an appearance and how strong it will be. Plus, think about how cool you’ll look in your shades! *Virtual fist bump*

• Bring A Backpack

  A low profile pack is all you need to store your peeled off layers, sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, a first aid kit, tissues, water, and a few protein bars. It’s also a good idea to pack a few extra layers (long-sleeve/short-sleeve shirt, socks) in case the clothing you’re wearing gets soaked. Make sure your pack is light enough to not weigh you down while you do your runs or be in the way on the chairlift. For convenience, we recommend getting one with a water bladder to stay hydrated!

Grab your skis and shades, and enjoy the benefits of spring skiing! Make sure to be on the lookout for rocks or areas that are melted down (you don’t want use that first aid kit you packed)! And if you don’t want to drag your ski gear with you as you travel, we got you! Ship your skis starting at only $15 right to your destination. In fact, we love you so much, we’re giving new users a $5 credit for a limited time only.

Where are you skiing this spring? Share with us in the comments!