After all of the anticipation, winter is finally upon us. You’ve been dreaming of laying down your first turns of the season, and now that it’s here you’ll want get it right. From gear maintenance and choosing the right outwear, use this guide to make sure you don’t blow it on your first day out.
Perfect Your Existing Gear
It’s easy to neglect your skis or snowboards by the end of the season. Too often we’re so excited for summer that we put away our winter gear without taking the time to give it some love first.
If your gear is looking rough our pros are here to tune it back into prime condition. If you really want to do it yourself here are some key things to look for:
Base
After being stored for a hot dry summer your base is going to need some love. Typically, a fresh wax will do the trick, but if you’re tired of the maintenance, we have just the thing to save you ever waxing again. DPS’s Phantom 2.o Waxless Glide treatment promises to be the last treatment you’ll ever need to do to your gear. We tested this tech with shop local Matt Gunn, and were so impressed we’re now offering this service at our Alpine Demo Centre.
Edges
When spring conditions are slushy it can be easy to forget about your edges. Early and mid-season tend to be cold and hard packed, so having sharp edges to lock in your turns is vital. Run an edge sharpener over your gear at home, or bring them in for a professional tune.
Bindings
The last thing you want when you get off the lift on your first day inbounds, or when you’re deep in the backcountry, is a day ending binding blowout. Give them a look over for broken or fatigued parts. You should put your boots on and put your gear on and take it off a few times to reveal any hidden issues. We stock some replacement parts and a wide range of new bindings if it’s time to retire your current gear.
Waterproof Your Outerwear
Even the best waterproof gear needs a bit of love to keep them working their best. Ideally, moisture should bead like water off of a duck’s back. If you find your starting to get some wet spots it’s probably time to wash and re-treat your gear.
Our friends at Arc’Teryx have put together this helpful guide on how to properly wash your Gore’Tex
You can stop by any one of our three store locations to pick up Tech Wash for your gear. https://www.escaperoute.ca/stores/
Buy Some Shiny New Gear
Each season I like to upgrade at least one item of my gear. It saves me from having a winter when everything goes wrong all at once. You can check out our fresh gear in any one of our three locations, or shop from the comfort of home through our online store. There’s free shipping inside Canada for orders over $100!
Boots
If your feet aren’t happy, you won’t be. A good pair of well-fitting boots can be a gamechanger for your day on the slopes. If your inbounds boots are still good, it could be worth investing in a good pair of touring boots. You’ll thank yourself when your feet aren’t crying halfway up the skin track.
Skis
When skiing in big mountains like Whistler and Blackcomb your gear can take a beating. Beyond that, if you’re using outdated gear you could be working way harder than you need to. Getting the right pair of skis and having them set up correctly could open up a whole new world of enjoyment in your ski day.
Outerwear
Part fashion, part function, outerwear should keep you comfortable while making you feel good. We stock the best brands in the business for jackets and pants.
Invest In Base Layers
Your outwear can only do so much, so the right base layer is key to staying warm and comfortable when out skiing. We recommend investing in quality base layers. Merino wool not only keeps you toasty warm, but will wick moisture away from your body when you’re working hard and sweaty. Not to mention they are odor-resistant and super comfy! Check out our new Smartwool or Kari Traa Merino Wool Collection in-stores.
For more mountain intel visit any one of our three locations, or read more of our stories.