First Timer

Thermals can either be synthetic (polypropylene) or wool. Base layers are critical for not only keeping you warm but even more importantly in ‘moisture management’. Most people feel that thermals are unnecessary because they get hot. This makes it even more important to wear thermals as you need a material that is going to absorb the moisture as you sweat and ‘wick’ that sweat off your body to ensure you don’t get cold. Wearing cotton as a base layer is a massive no no because cotton actually holds the moisture resulting in you getting wet and in the worst case scenario can actually result in hypothermia setting in.

Depending on the length of your trip and how often you will be washing, budget a minimum of 2 pairs (top & bottom) so you can wash one, wear one. The less you wash obviously means the more you need. Keep in mind that Mum and Dad are on holidays as well and they don’t necessarily want to be washing every day in order to save a very minimal amount of money.

Benefits of Wool:

• Warmer
• Highly Breathable
• Durable
• Odour Resistant
• Moisture Wicking Properties

Merino wool blend socks are necessary to ensure warmth, support and protection. Being a first timer you will more than likely going to hire your ski/snowboard boots. Best sock in this situation is a merino blend, double density which will provide extra cushioning in the shin and calf.

Being in rental boots for the first time can be a shock to beginners so the more comfort you can add the better the experience.

Depending on the length of your trip and how often you will be washing, budget a minimum of 2 pairs so you can wash one, wear one. The less you wash obviously means the more you need.

Mid-Layers: A great method to keeping warm is using a mid-layer (over the top of your thermals) which provides you with the flexibility to manage your own heating system.

A mid-layer can be a fleece jacket/vest or down jacket. Again this layer can not be cotton based as it will hold the moisture. We recommend a traditional fleece jacket that will come in a variety of weights to suit your own requirements.

The benefit of layering means that you have the option of taking off or putting back on depending on your own needs. Believe me, there is nothing worst than being cold out on the mountain forcing you to come in whilst your friends/family continue having fun.

Waterproof/Breathable Gloves: One of the biggest threats to you having a great holiday is having cold wet hands. All gloves we sell are waterproof but the reason why you pay more for a glove is the breathability of the glove.

Just like thermals you want a glove that will keep your hand warm but more importantly ‘wick’ the moisture from inside the glove out to avoid it from getting wet. For a first timer this will be where you will try to save money by buying the cheapest glove but trust me when I say it will have a negative affect on your holiday.

You want a glove that will keep your hand warm but more importantly dry.

Goggles are the most critical part of your overall equipment yet for first timers this is where most will try to save money or even worst try to convince themselves that they can wear sunglasses.

Why is it so important you ask? Well, if you can imagine driving down the street at 40km an hour with your head out the window this will replicate what it will be like skiing or snowboarding even for beginners. You have to remember that conditions can change dramatically when you are on the hill and it can go from being a sunny blue bird day to dull and snowing within an hour. In this case if you have sub-par eye wear you will be forced to come in because it won’t be safe as you won’t be able to see.

The key to finding the right goggle for you is all about the fit. You want to make sure it fits comfortably on the bridge of your nose and there aren’t any exposed gaps to the fit on your face. As all faces are different shapes and sizes trying on goggles is critical to making sure you have the right fit for your face.