Top Beginner Ski Tips for Adults

Skiing is a thrilling and enjoyable winter activity for people of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a day of excitement and exercise, or a weekend getaway in the mountains, skiing is a great way to experience the outdoors in winter. Like most sports, it takes time to learn. Before you hit the slopes, make sure you’re prepared with these Learn to Ski Tips for Adults!

Ski Gear and Clothing
Skiing requires special gear and an outfit that will help keep you safe, warm and comfortable so you can best enjoy your time on the slopes. Start with proper apparel, such as waterproof pants and jackets, moisture wicking base layers, insulated gloves, hat or helmet, neck warmer, goggles, and ski boots.
See our list of what to wear skiing or snowboarding.

It’s also important to have all the “gear” like skis, (or a snowboard), poles, and bindings properly adjusted to you specifically by a ski shop technician. If you don’t own any gear, but plan on skiing frequently throughout the season, it may be more cost-effective to buy your own gear (consider buying used to save money) rather than renting it each time. Otherwise renting (try before you buy) is easier and only sets you back $50-$100 a day versus new skis, boots and poles that can cost over $1000.

Know Before You Go
Do some research before heading out on your skiing adventure. Determine which type of skiing is best suited for your skill level. You don’t need a big ski resort, like Big Sky Montana, with steep Black Diamond terrain until you have more experience. You’ll want a ski area with beginner terrain, and surface lifts, to start, plus a learn to ski programs. Also check the weather report and ski conditions ahead of time. Is there sufficient snow for example. Is the weather going to be pleasant, not too windy or cold? Yes, skiing is a cold weather sport- but some winter days are better than others! You want a positive first experience – not turn into a popsicle skiing in freezing rain for your first time!

Safety Tips for Skiing
Your safety should always be your #1 priority skiing. Always stay within your skill level and practice proper etiquette on the slopes. Be aware of other skiers around you, and always ski in control. Know the Code!

Remember: never ski alone as a beginner! Ski with friends or family, better yet – an instructor, its the buddy system, and its more fun and social. Don’t let “friends” push you to ski anything you aren’t comfortable with! If visibility is poor or weather conditions are uncertain, it’s best not to take any risks and head inside for some hot cocoa!

Tips for Skiing Technique
Skiing technique is essential for a successful and enjoyable day on the slopes, and a healthy future int eh sport. We highly recommend you take an intro lesson to learn good technique, form and skills. If you insist on DIY, start off slowly by just sliding on your skis, don’t lock your knees or bend over, stay fluid, build up to a snowplow (on skis), practicing turning and right, stopping, and side-sliding. Make sure to keep your weight centered over your skis, an athletic stance, to maintain balance and increase control. Relax and breathe too – this is supposed to be fun!

Practice skiing, turning, in both directions across an open slope before heading down any trails, or lifts, gradually take on more difficult terrain as you feel confident. Familiarize yourself with the lift before you ride it, from magic carpet – pretty simple, to chairlift – which requires preparedness, so you load properly. Abide the ski trail color signs: start green, after a few days graduate to blue. Black runs will take time to conquer. Once you feel comfortable tackling small hills, progress onto larger ones while keeping in mind the appropriate techniques for each level of slope. Always stay in control, and Know the Code of skiers safety responsibility.

Take Breaks on the Mountain
No matter how much experience you may have skiing, it’s wise to take regular breaks throughout the day to let your muscles rest and recover. Hydrate (water not Fireball), nourish (healthy snacks) and stretch, to keep your body in the best conditions on the slopes. Skiing burns a lot of calories, and uses a lot of muscles.

It’s also important to rest when you feel tired or if conditions become too difficult or if visibility is reduced. Taking breaks can help prevent ski injuries or accidents. More ski incidents occur end of day when skiers are tired, and conditions diminish (icy, no longer smoothly groomed). Besides, there’s this tradition called après ski that’s rewarding and fun.

Ski Maintenance and Care
Proper care of your gear is important too. Have your skis (or snowboard) and bindings professionally inspected annually! Binding settings and boot fit are essential for safe and effective skiing. When in doubt, you want to come out, its a skier DIN joke!

At the end of the day, dry your equipment, especially your boots, and properly store everything in a dry place. Having your skis (or snowboard) waxed regularly helps keep them in good condition, prevents rust on the edges. Taking proper care of your equipment improves your skiing, and the longevity of your expensive gear.

Adaptive Skiing
Adaptive skiing is a great activity for those with physical challenges. Adaptive skiing programs at ski areas are amazing at Sunday River Maine and Breckenridge – blind ski guides and sit-skis open a new world of possibility. With specially trained guides and custom devices, people with physical disabilities can enjoy the freedom and joy of skiing.

Avoid Common Skiing Mistakes
To ensure a safe and enjoyable skiing experience, skiers must always be aware of their capabilities, stay in control (always able to stop quickly) and stick to trails that match their skill level. Trying risky maneuvers or terrain park tricks beyond your ability can lead to serious injury, so know your limits. Ski resorts offer different trails based on difficulty, so note the signage – green, blue, and black, before heading out. Don’t be a gaper and learn the ski lingo!

Pay attention to ski patrol warnings – they’re the police on the hill- and they can pull your pass if you break the rules, or if you endanger others. Patrol are also the medics available to help in the event of an accident or injury. Never ski closed areas or trails, and always follow the signage for your safety and the safety of others.

Crowded Slopes Should be Avoided
It’s a good idea to avoid crowded slopes as that can increase the risk of collisions or injuries. Consider skiing during off-peak, midweek, when ski trails are far less busy. This also means shorter lift lines, and better availability or ski lessons, and a table for lunch in the lodge.

You’re Skiing!
With these tips in mind, progressing slowly and positively with practice, you’re on your way to a lifetime sport! Skiing is a fun, healthy, social, outdoor activity that can bring you to magnificent, beautiful, snow-covered destinations all over the world, for both experienced skiers and beginners alike. So why wait? Grab your gear (see how to pack for skiing), check the forecast and get ready for some fun in the snow!