Your active outdoor lifestyle doesn't have to come to a screeching halt just because the snow starts flying. As a matter of fact, if you're an avid skier, winter is the best time of year for outdoor action. Having high-quality skis is important, but having the right ski accessories is the key to success on the slopes. This ski accessories buying guide will show you how to buy ski accessories that will offer top performance, durability and value for your money.
Besides your skis, you will need a few ski accessories to enjoy your snowy adventures. Whether you're a downhill skier or cross country skier, you will need to stock up on ski equipment, such as ski poles, ski boots, bindings, helmets, goggles and ski clothing.
Ski poles are used to guide a skier's direction and help with balance and weight distribution. They are normally made from metal (aluminum or stainless steel) or composite materials such as carbon fiber. Because of their long, thin design and the amount of use they get, ski poles are the most broken and most replaced piece of ski equipment. Ski poles come in different lengths and are fitted to a skier based on height. The following chart will aid you in choosing the ski poles that are the proper length:
| Skiers height | Suggested pole length |
|---|---|
Your ski boots are what connects you to your skis. They are important because they transfer your body's movements and shifts in pressure to the skis, and thus determine the success or failure of your skiing adventure. Ski boots should fit snuggly and yet not restrict the movement of your feet. When you try on ski boots, make sure to wear thick socks -- the kind you'll wear when you're skiing.
One thing that you want to pay attention to, no matter what type of skiing you'll be doing, is how easy or hard it is for the boots to flex when you bend your knees. Beginning skiers will want more flexible boots than more experienced skiers. If it is difficult to flex the boots, new skiers will have a hard time staying in control of movements while skiing. If the boots flex too easily, an axpert skier won't get enough support and may be at risk of injury. Choose a pair of ski boots that have the flexibility that is sufficient for your skill level.
Like ski boots, ski bindings are important because they are a direct link between you and your skis. One of the main functions of bindings is being able to release your boots. This is important in case you tumble or your ski catches on something. If your bindings don't release, there's a higher risk of injuring yourself, so you want bindings that release the boot from the ski without too much effort. The most popular types of bindings have adjustable releases, allowing the skier to select release pressure depending on ski conditions and the skier's abilities. A newer skier will want to be able to release his or her skis more quickly than an advanced skier.
Step-in bindings are the most common type of ski bindings. They work by clipping onto the ski boots at the heel and the toe. Different bindings allow for different types of release (upward or sideways), so be sure you know how to relase your bindings before you hit the slopes.
Ski helmets have become increasingly popular ski accessories over the past several years. Some ski areas now require ski helmets be worn and with good reason. Head injuries are one of the most common types of injuries in skiing. Selecting the right helmet will keep you comfortable and safe.
Features you'll want to look for include adequate ventilation, sufficient padding and a snug but comfortable fit. Most ski helmets have sizes in centimeters, so when you are online shopping for a ski helmet, you'll need a measuring tape to find your size. Measure around your head, about an inch above your eyebrows.
Ski goggles are necessary because they keep snow and other debris out of your eyes, thus providing an additional measure of safety, and they protect your eyes from the sun's ultra-violet rays which are reflecting off the bright, white snow. A sunburn on your eyes is painful and very harmful to your vision.
When choosing the goggles that are right for you, there are a few things you they will need to do:
1. They need to be comfortable.
2. They have to be compatible with your ski helmet.
3. They should have the appropriate tint for the conditions in which you'll be doing most of your skiing. If most of your skiing is done in low light, such as overcast days or in fog, choose a yellow, amber or gold tint. If you're on the slopes in sunny conditions, darker tints such as green will keep your eyes comfortable.
4. Your ski goggles must provide 100 percent UVA/UVB protection.
Having the proper clothing for skiing is critical for having a positive experience. It's hard to have a good time if you're not warm, dry and comfortable. Items to consider when shopping for your skiing wardrobe include ski jackets and pants or a one-piece ski suit, gloves, thermal underwear, ski socks and hats.
Materials that work best for these ski clothing items include fleece, wool and silk. Improvements in man-made fabrics such as polyester have also come a long way and may also provide adequate protection and comfort for skiers.
One important rule to remember when dressing for the slopes is to layer your clothing. This provides you the option to adjust your clothing as your activity level changes. Having outerwear that is waterproof and windproof is also important.
Can I use my ski boots for both downhill and cross-country skiing?
Unfortunately, no. While both sports involve sliding around on two skis, that's where the similarity ends. Not only are downhill skis different from cross-country skis, the boots are also very different. Downhill ski boots attach to the skis at both the toe and heel, allowing the skier to transfer energy from their body to the skis. This full-foot connection enables the skier to change directions and perform a variety of other essential downhill ski moves with great precision. In cross-country skiing, the ski is only attached to the boot at the toe, allowing the skier to perform more of a skating motion for flat ground and uphill slopes. Cross-country ski boots are also much more flexible, more like a hiking boot than a downhill ski boot.
Which are better: metal ski poles or poles made of composite materials?
Each type of ski pole has advantages and drawbacks, so which one is best depends on your preferences. Metal poles, generally made of aluminum or stainless steel, are heavier than composite poles. Some skiers prefer the heavier feel of metal poles, while others enjoy the lightweight feel of composite compounds. Metal poles can also bend, while composite poles do not. They can both break. As a matter of fact, ski poles are replaced more often than any other ski equipment because of their somewhat fragile nature, so whichever kind you choose, treat them with care!
Why is layering so important when dressing for skiing?
Your body's core temperature is constantly changing during a ski outing. There are periods of extreme exertion as you navigate a steep slope and also times of relative inactivity, such as when you're riding on a ski lift. There can also be significant temperature changes throughout the day. When you layer your clothing you give yourself the opportunity to adjust how much insulation you have. It's always a good idea to have flexibility when it comes to your comfort.
Be as stylish as you are warm and dry
With such a wide array of ski clothing available on Overstock.com, you can assemble a wardrobe that will keep you looking good all winter long! When you have an assortment of ski jackets, ski pants, ski gloves and other fashionable outerwear, you'll not only be noticed for your skiing prowess, but also your immaculate fashion sense.
Expand your cold weather horizons
Since you'll have lots of cold weather clothing anyway, why not give other snow sports a try? Overstock.com offers everything you need to try other sports, including snowboards, snowshoes, ice skates and even sleds. You're only as limited as your imagination when it comes to winter activities with Overstock.com!
Getting your act together
Having lots of winter sports gear is great, but how are you going to haul it all to and from the action? Overstock.com offers a large selection of racks and carriers that are perfect for all of your needs. We have ski racks, snowboard racks and even racks that will accommodate your winter clothing and gear. Make sure you travel in style on your way to and from all of your winter activities with Overstock.com -- your online shopping outlet!
