First Time Skier's Tips

Want to get on the slopes but not sure where to start? Here's a guide with all you need to know. Getty Images / Michelangelo Gratton

If you've never been skiing before or you're a beginner skier, you may not know where to go to skiing, what to wear, or even where to start. Here are tips for a first time skier.

Find a Ski Resort with Beginner Terrain
While most ski resorts offer trails for beginners, there's no need to head out to an expert ski resort for your first time skiing - if you have a local ski resort, it's probably fine. As long as the resort has plenty of terrain that's suitable for beginners, your first time skiing should be enjoyable.

Raid Your Closet Before You Buy New Clothes

There's no need for expensive, fancy ski clothes for your first time skiing. As long as you have a turtleneck, a sweater or a fleece jacket, and some kind of insulating pants (no denim, though) to wear under a winter jacket and waterproof snow pants, you should be warm enough. A pair of winter gloves is a good idea, too. When you know you like skiing, you can upgrade your wardrobe.

Get Lift Tickets

Before you go skiing, you will need a lift ticket. A lift ticket provides you with access to the mountain and to the ski lifts. Lift ticket prices vary. Discounted lift tickets are typically available for off-peak times - mid-week and early or late season. In addition, many resorts offer discounts for children, teens, and senior skiers.

  • Where to Get Lift Tickets

Rent Skis and Boots

Your skiing experience will be better if you rent skis and boots instead of borrowing a friend's old pair of dated skis or boots. Even if you have a pair of old skis or boots, learning to ski on a modern pair of skis is not only safer than skiing on old skis, but, it will help you progress faster.

Take a Lesson

Even if your friends ski and want to teach you, investing in a ski lesson is necessary. You'll get started off with a good basis of ski knowledge, and with continued lessons, you'll be a great skier before you know it. Make sure to specify that you are a beginner skier with no (or little) experience on the slopes.

Stay Hydrated and Get a Snack

Because you're working new muscles, it's easy to get tired. Stopping to get a drink or a snack is very important for your safety.

Stay Safe

Ski with caution and work hard to stay in control. During your lesson, make it a point to listen to your instructor, because later, you can practice what you've learned on your own time. However, don't push yourself too hard - on your first day, it's best to stick to terrain that you know you can handle.