One of the core Kelowna points of interest, and the Okanagan as a whole, are the many ski resorts that dot the region. If you haven’t skied or snowboarded before, or just need a refresher course on what you need to bring, don’t worry.
Below, we go into detail about all the things you’ll need (or even just keep in mind) before you head to the slopes and go zooming down mountains.
Whether You’re Skiing or Snowboarding, You Will Get a Full Workout
Both skiing and snowboarding require plenty of energy. You will be constantly balancing yourself, using your legs and hips to turn, and overall getting a full leg workout.
It’s highly likely that you won’t be able to do a full day of skiing or snowboarding if this is your first time in a while—whether you’re getting back to it or trying it for the first time.
That’s okay.
Big White, one of the main Kelowna points of interest, has plenty of other activities that aren’t as intensive to come to after spending time on the slopes. These include snowshoeing, a tube park, and plenty of après ski options.
Tune Up Your Equipment
If you’re bringing your own gear, make sure it’s tuned properly so you can safely rely on it while going down the hill. If it’s been more than 20 days, it’s best to take your skis or snowboard in to get them tuned and professionally waxed.
However, this depends on your skiing or snowboarding habits. If you’re one of those people who loves travelling at max speed down the hills, you’ll want to tune your equipment more regularly to give you the best performance.
Tuning your equipment at the end of the season is also a good idea. This will give time for the wax to sink in over the summer leaving your skis or snowboard ready to go next season.
Layers Are Your Friend
If you’re going to any Kelowna points of interest in the winter, layering your clothing is always a good idea.
This goes double for trips to ski resorts.
Mountain weather often changes throughout the day. While it might be chilly in the morning, if the sun comes out, or you work up a sweat, you’ll be shedding layers fast.
Don’t Forget These Core Ski Trip Essentials
Whether you’re skiing or snowboarding, there’s a fair amount of gear to bring with you to ensure you’re prepared. We recommend bringing the following:
- Ski/snowboard boots, bindings, poles, snowboard/skis
- Helmet
- Warm winter coat
- Long underwear and dry-weave or light long-sleeve shirt as a base layer
- A simple cotton shirt to wear on top of a base layer
- Sweatpants to wear over long underwear
- Insulated socks
- Snow pants
- Comfortable insulated gloves
- Googles
- Neck tube (to protect your neck from the cold)
If you don’t have some of the equipment mentioned above, aside from the clothing, most of the items you can either buy or rent from the ski resort itself. However, bear in mind that prices will be less affordable to buy the things you need from there as opposed to off the resort.
And there you have it! You’re now prepared and ready to enjoy the many ski resorts that dot the Okanagan.
Come back after a long day of skiing to a comfy bed. Contact us to book your stay with us today!