10 Things I Learned As A New Skier

Thinking about taking up skiing? Here are ten things I learned as a new skier that might also help you before you hit the slopes!

1. Skiing Is an Expensive Sport

Even the basic gear can be pricey. Renting gear and lift tickets can also be pricey.

It can be a bit of a shock for a new skier. Here are some tips for budgeting a trip.

If you’re looking for suggestions on equipment, clothing, and accessories, here’s some of my favorite gear for beginners.

2. Skiing is an AMAZING Workout

When people told me I’d be sore the next day, I assumed it meant from falling. But actually skiing can be a full body cardio workout! You’ll use leg, core and arm muscles, and practice balancing skills.

I really enjoyed that aspect of it right from the beginning. That said, I was sore! If you find that you are too, try using this mini travel massager to pamper your muscles after.

3. You’ll Want Lots of Snacks and Food

Because it’s such a great workout, you’re burning more calories than you might realize (even on the bunny slopes).

I like to bring electrolytes, Chomps mini turkey jerky, and gummies from Trader Joe’s.

Of course, most ski resorts, like the one we visit at Perfect North, will have food and drink on site. But on some days, there may be fewer options available, so it’s good to plan ahead.

4. Dress in Layers

Even on an extra cold day, you may want to adjust your layers throughout the day. Because it’s such a great workout, you’ll likely be warmer than you expect at times.

Merino wool layers do a great job at keeping you dry and warm.

If the snow blowers are running, you’ll likely want to cover your face with something like this Smartwool balaclava and ski goggles.

5. Bring Dry Socks

You might even want to bring a whole change of clothes, but definitely at least socks, for the end of the day.

Unless you live minutes from the ski resort, leaving your feet in wet socks for the drive home isn’t great.

6. Everyone Falls

Ok, not EVERYONE, but lots of people fall.

You’ll likely see people falling all day, and there’s nothing to be embarrassed about if you fall multiple times.

7. Falling Doesn’t Always Hurt

If you’re learning as a new skier, it’s also good to learn how to fall.

I learned that if I felt like I wasn’t in control or was going too fast and couldn’t slow down, one technique is to drop to the ground (fall on purpose). That allows you to fall with a measure of control.

8. The Kids Are Incredible

The kids learning to ski and snowboard are adorable and incredible. Watching them learn was my favorite thing.

So, maybe just take a break for a while and enjoy seeing how those lessons are going.

9. Shopping for Women’s Snow Pants is Hard

Shopping for women’s snow pants is every bit as irritating as shopping for women’s hiking pants.

Here’s a tip for a new skier: if you’re shopping for “short” snow pants, assume they’re petite sizes (even if they don’t say so) and size up.

Shopping for comfortable boots can be a challenge too. If you struggle to find a good fit, here are some suggestions for wide calf ski boots.

10. Skiing Is Tough on Your Feet

Even comparatively comfortable boots (like these Apex ski boots) left me SO READY to change into comfier shoes at the end of the day.

After a long day of skiing, I recommend doing a spa day for your feet! I like to pamper my feet with this Bare Botanics sugar scrub, which leaves my feet moisturized and happy.

Got more ideas for how a newbie on the slopes can enjoy the day? Let me know in the comments!