Tips from the Old Ski-Rider

This is the time of year where you have to get serious. This year especially. The novelty of the early winter, the holiday snows, and donning, perhaps, some new equipment has worn off; but there’s a long way to go. We need to embrace our season and help ourselves through to spring.

The Rangers have (so far) met their goals of extra grooming and track setting. It’s been relatively easy this season because of the light snows we’ve gotten. Take advantage of the extra trail work, the added width of the trails. You need the time outdoors, on the trails.

If you’ve found you’ve had troubles on the trails, slowing down, making that one turn, climbing that pitch on Deep Rock or Uller’s Harold’s Pass, there are things you can do.

Check out the new ‘Skin’ skis. They are a new(old) no-wax ski and they are bomb-proof in almost every snow condition. They will really help with your kick and climb. Go to Mt. Zion and practice your climb, snowplow and stem turns. Zion grooms their downhill runs to perfection. Your technique will improve and it’s a lot of fun watching all those young skiers out there learning their skills.

If you’re working all day, I know you’re tired and burned out when you get home. I’ve been there; but I can also assure you that setting aside one hour out on the trails after work will really surprise you with reduced stress, added energy and a better night’s sleep. Let everyone in your household know that there’s a special ‘trail hour’ for you two or three times during the work week. Tell this one that the dishes have to be done, tell that one that homework needs to be finished and that you will be back in an hour to see how things went. You will need a good head lamp. They are making astounding lamps these days. Find one that’s right for you. Head lamps are surprising, once you have one. They get used for many things other than mid-week skiing. You will wonder how you ever got along without one. Lamp skiing is really fun. Your same old trail becomes a wonderland of texture and shadows from 7-8 at night.

If you want to up your game some, consider a lesson. There are some excellent ski coaches around. Get hold of a Ranger, we can point you in the right direction or even schedule a time to show you a few tips on classic ski technique... if we’re not grooming.

Get out. Embrace our winter. Ski Freely. CZ