publication date: Jan 20, 2012
Sofa
surfing
: Book your ski equipment hire online from your sofa and your skis and boots
will be ready and waiting for you on arrival – you only have to try the boots
on! There’s no need to book ski hire via your tour operator, better deals can
be found online, check out Ski Republic's "two for one"
ski hire offer.
- The
first resort:
When choosing your first ski resort think about what you want to do, your
party size and how it’s made up. Ski resorts market themselves according to
ski standard, what to do when not skiing, and the level of non-ski and après
ski facilities.
- Fit,
not fat:
Fit in some exercise before you fly, everything will hurt anyway, but give
yourself a fighting chance with a few visits to the local sports centre. Once
on the piste, try stretches, a few arm and ankle rotations and remember to
stretch out afterwards too.
- To
pack, or not to pack:
There really is no need to take tea-bags and Marmite and you won’t need books,
unless your bed end is wobbly. Fill your case with warm layers, hats,
watertight shoes and boots (heels are not cool).
- Putting
the boot in:
Ski boots are the most important part of your ski equipment, they transfer
your movements to your skis and must be snug (not cramped), warm and dry. If
they don’t feel right, take them back. Ski Republic’s expert fitters will try
to get it right every time, but will freely exchange them, while warming racks
and anti-microbial boot liners keep boots comfortable and odour
free.
- Functionality,
not fashion:
Don’t be poser on the piste, go for practical, brand-name ski wear; warmth and
comfort are paramount.
- Layer
up:
Wear layers rather than thick woollies as thin layers of fabric trap air
between them and it’s the warm air that insulates.
- Look
after the extremities:
A good pair of ski socks is essential, they have padding in all the right
places and will make the difference between a good day or sore feet. Ditto for
ski gloves, don’t skimp, cold equals miserable.
- Safe
skiing:
Always, always keep within your limits and your ability and always wear a ski
helmet, Ski Republic loan them free with every ski and snowboard set
hired.
- Polite
skiing:
The skier in front of you always has the right of way. Whether you’re
crossing a slope, turning or stopping, it is your responsibility to avoid
him!
With Ski
Republic you can pre-book all ski and snowboard equipment online in advance. Equipment
will be ready and waiting on arrival in resort, everything will have been
prepared in advance from the online booking and all that remains is to try the
boots, make any final adjustments and it’s off to the piste.They have hire shops in the French Alps and in the Pyrenees (including Andorra).
For more information visit: www.ski-republic.com
