First Ski Season
When introducing a child to skiing for the first time, think ‘safety & enjoyment’ on the slopes.
Here's SENDY’s list of essential skiing gear for a child:
Skis: Be sure these are sized correctly for the height and weight of your child. Refer to the manufacturers sizing guidelines, or rely on a rental shop staff. Shorter skis are easier to control for beginners.
Ski Bindings: Bindings need to be compatible with your child's ski boots and securely attach the boots to the skis. Adjustable can accommodate different boot sizes.
Ski Boots: Invest in comfortable and supportive ski boots that fit properly. They should provide good ankle support and fit snugly without being too tight. Make sure the boots are warm and waterproof!
Ski Poles: Ski poles are not always necessary for very young beginners, but as a child progresses, they may want to use poles for balance and propulsion. Choose poles that are the correct length based on your child's height.
Ski Helmet: A properly fitting ski helmet is essential to protect the child's head in case of falls or collisions. Make sure it is certified for skiing or snowboarding use.
Ski Goggles: Goggles are crucial for protecting your child's eyes from wind, snow, and UV rays. Choose goggles with good visibility, anti-fog features, and UV protection. They should fit comfortably over the helmet.
Ski Jacket and Pants: These must be waterproof and insulated to keep your child warm and dry, and breathable to prevent perspiring.
Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal base layers (tops and bottoms) will keep your child warm and comfortable. Cotton does not wick moisture.
Ski Socks: In addition, choose warm, moisture-wicking ski socks to keep the child's feet comfortable and dry inside their boots.
Ski Mitts: Insulated, waterproof mittens keep your child's hands warm and dry. Make sure they provide good grip.
Balaclava: To keep the child's neck and face warm, consider a neck gaiter or balaclava that can be worn under their ski jacket.
Wrist Guards: Impact injuries can occur in skiing, especially for beginners. Wrist guards can help protect against these.
Backpack: A small backpack can be handy for carrying essentials like snacks, water, and extra mittens and a two-way radio.
Sunscreen: Use a high SPF sunscreen to protect against the sun's reflection off the snow.
Lesson and Supervision: Enroll your child in a beginner's skiing lesson with a certified instructor. Additionally, ensure there is adult supervision at all times while on the slopes.
When selecting gear for your child, it's essential to consider their age, size, and skill level. Renting equipment the first few times can save money as you introduce your child to skiing, and as their growth rate requires larger gear.
