If you're a first-time skier, you might act like a dork without meaning it. You might not know the rules and etiquette of the slopes. When you start skiing, you will spot different signs asking you to follow a certain 'Skier Responsibility Code,' but what is it?
Skiing down the snowy hills for the first time is unarguably fun and thrilling. However, it is also quite common for beginners to get over-enthusiastic while being on the slopes. They often stop thinking rationally about the people and things around them.
It will help if you know that there are many risks on the slopes. If you don't have basic ski knowledge, you might be embarrassed or get injured. So here we will discuss the five golden rules to help you enjoy snowboarding safely. All the first-timers must remember these skiing hacks. Apart from this, you can also check out Snow Gaper to get the real skiers guidance for beginners.
Get Rid Of Gaper Gap
The space between your helmet's bottom and your google's top is called the Gaper Gap. Often the skiers get teased because a Gaper Gap looks weird, and it also means that you don't know how to wear your helmet correctly. It might be too loose on your head, and things could go wrong if you take a tumble.
The best way to prevent any gap is to buy your skiing helmet and goggles together from the same ski shop. First, make sure your helmet fits properly, and then make sure your goggles fit right where the helmet ends.
Carry Your Skis Correctly
Though you can carry your skis the way, you prefer. But here's a suggestion. Use the 'local' method to hold onto both the skiing tips with one arm while the front binding rests over your shoulder blade. It is the most efficient way to haul your boards. While resting on the tips, your arms can serve as a counterweight to your ski's back. Therefore, you'll have less stress on your body. It also keeps your other hand free to carry your boots or poles.
Pro Tip: Do not use this hack in a crowded area or indoors. You might hit others who are behind you.
Don't Ski For Social Media. Ski For You.
If you want to frame your day on the hills with some slow-mo skiing videos or some action-cam footage for your Instagram, go for it. But don't focus only on getting the best shot. If your ski partners keep clicking your photographs, they won't be able to enjoy their ride. You won't live in the moment because you were obsessed with the perfect snaps for social media.
Please Note: Parents get a pass for clicking endless cute photos of their children while they ski.
Dress Properly. Say No To Jeans While Skiing
It might sound way too professional to have ski gear. Also, it might look cool to ski in jeans in spring. But wearing jeans is a bad idea for the rest of the season. Ski Mountains are wet and frigid, and jeans will make you feel uncomfortable in those conditions. It will hold onto the moisture, and you will feel colder. Plus, jeans can never cover your ski boots, and snow might pour in.
Staying In Control
Skiing is exciting, and you might feel fully confident in losing control while snowboarding. But skiing wildly is the easiest and quickest way to look like a dork in front of others. Also, you are putting yourself and others in danger. Try to maintain a manageable speed and do not ski on unknown terrain.
Pro Tip: On a snowy day, keep your turns tight for safety.
Some Other Tips To Keep In Mind
- Skiers in front of you can choose their way. So, avoid them.
- Don't stop suddenly in the middle of your way. Slow down your speed before finally stopping
- Observe all the warnings and signs on the way while skiing
Conclusion
Snowboarding and skiing injuries are common, while deaths are comparatively rare. All these guidelines mentioned above will help you to avoid serious injuries and ski collisions. Every year, about 6000000 people get injured while skiing because of their lack of knowledge, skills, and extreme confidence. Ultimately, it is up to each skier to show courtesy to fellow snowboarders, use some common sense, do some research before going on a ski trip, and be aware of the surroundings to ensure safety.