Tuesday, 13 January 2015

Ski Week: It's all about the accessories!

You've chosen a set of great skis and boots but you're still missing a vital element of your equipment: the accessories. Here's a couple awesome ones that will not only make you look great but also withstand any weather and slope situation that may come at you. Because there's no such thing as bad conditions... you just need the right materials. 

Helmet - first and foremost, you need to be thinking about your safety out there on the slopes. And since you're not the only one on the slopes, it doesn't really matter how great of a skier you might be. When choosing a helmet, check the fit, comfort, goggle fit, chin strap and ventilation. Here are some helmets tried, tested and approved by the German Ski Association: 
      


Goggles - when selecting goggles, its preferable to choose ones that are the same make as your helmet. If not, at least try them on in the shop with the helmet you have. These days, there's such a wide range to choose from but we'd advise to go for a pair that has interchangeable lenses or automatic lens tinting, a perfect fit for all weather. Check out Uvex for some really great affordable and stylish options. Also make sure it fits your head and your face and it's not too big or too small. Tip: orange, yellow or red lenses are better for bad weather so you can see bumps better, reflective lenses are better for good weather - they reflect the sunlight and clear lenses are great for any weather. 

Poc, Oakley, Uvex

Poles -  with ski poles, it's also important to check a couple things: the length, the material, what you'll be using them for. Your arms should be about a 90˚ angle when you hold them. Nowadays, poles made of carbon are the most popular, as it's a pretty strong material. If you're a downhill racer, you'll probably want to choose poles that are a little taller and stronger so you can really push yourself off the start house but for most of us, a pair by Leki or Komperdell will do the job. 

Rucksack - having a rucksack when taking a ski trip isn't the most important thing, but it's a handy accessory to have with you. If you're going to be skiing off piste, in deep snow, it's vital to carry an avalanche kit with you and you can even get rucksacks with built in airbags, which may save your life if you're trapped under an avalanche. If you're just an average skier, you might want to carry a couple energy bats, a hat and a flask with a hot drink.

Performance Underwear - being outdoors, in colder climates, underwear is as important as outerwear. You need to be warm and you need something that will transfer sweat during exercise. UnderArmour have created a ColdGear® Infrared system, which is a soft ceramic coating that absorbs body heat and holds onto it, keeping you warmer, longer. Falke have brilliant socks, which are made of merino wool and have padding, that will provide good contact with your ski boot. 

Gloves - keeping your hands warm is vital when you're doing snow sports. Ziener have gloves for any type of winter sport that are great quality at affordable prices. With durable waterproofness, outstanding breathability and uncompromising quality, you can always rely on these GORE-TEX® gloves in any condition. Another great tip for gloves is to look for them at outlets, to get an even greater price. 


    No comments:

    Post a Comment