Beginners skiing recommendations in Europe Feb
Discussion
It's not worth spending lots on ski gear for your first trip - especially as you or your son might not like it, but you do need a good balance of decent stuff so that you're not cold or wet. Don't know what the weather conditions are like in Slovenia for that time of year...
Of course one person's cheap or decent is another persons expensive or rubbish..!!
I've mostly avoided getting my two son's decent stuff - i.e. branded as they grow out of it rapidly. But at least our second son can get wear out of the older son's stuff.
I did pick up a few sets of Nevica stuff a couple of seasons back which did for my son and a couple's son who we go with and will do for my younger son as well
Which is half decent.
Some of my stuff is branded and some not... or at least Nevica vs North Face, etc..
It's quite difficult as it depends on how 'hardy' you both are - only you really know that.
What I would recommend are...
3 pairs of tube socks, if not from a 3 pack, the same brand. This guarantees that they are the same thickness and construction - it can be a right pain getting your feet in to boots on day 2+ and suddenly they feel loose or tight... Although boot construction is a lot better these days
Gloves - good gloves are worth it, I've got 2 pairs... or possibly 3 now.. Although 1 pair is my daily skiing pair of gloves and the others are emergency / muck about in the snow ones. Although that might be a bit extreme... I like the ones you can attach to your wrists - it stops them from falling or sliding down the mountainside.
Goggles - you'll need to check to see if you need them. if you haven't got any, you will almost certainly end up buying some (sods law) and if you do buy some you may well end up not using them....!!
Sunscreen/block - depends on how you tan, but if it is sunny you should apply some to your lips + face.
Snood/scarf... Worth it, if it is windy. I don't bother with these, but my sons like them as does my wife.
Dry slope/indoor ski lessons - for both of you, it will get you both used to putting boots on, tightening them up, etc.. and having your clothing on, etc.. They can be quite popular at this time of year, but will save you a lot of time on day 1 with faffing about. You don't need very long, but maybe 2 x 2 hours. This will help a lot and ultimately mean you should improve at a faster rate and get to enjoy more of the slopes when you're out there.
Enjoy - very jealous, especially as we haven't been last season or going this season
It's a fabulous holiday.
ETA : take a look here for prices - https://www.sportsdirect.com/skiing/mens-ski-wear?... Some decent stuff on there and not too expensive.
As you mentioned, I wouldn't bother buying a helmet for your son.. He will quickly outgrow it and you just end up buying another one.
Layers are the way to go. You can always take them off, but you can't put them on if you're halfway up the mountain and it's in the hotel/chalet or at home!!
ETA : Now you've got me looking at ski gear!!! and we're not even going!!!
Of course one person's cheap or decent is another persons expensive or rubbish..!!
I've mostly avoided getting my two son's decent stuff - i.e. branded as they grow out of it rapidly. But at least our second son can get wear out of the older son's stuff.
I did pick up a few sets of Nevica stuff a couple of seasons back which did for my son and a couple's son who we go with and will do for my younger son as well
Which is half decent.Some of my stuff is branded and some not... or at least Nevica vs North Face, etc..
It's quite difficult as it depends on how 'hardy' you both are - only you really know that.
What I would recommend are...
3 pairs of tube socks, if not from a 3 pack, the same brand. This guarantees that they are the same thickness and construction - it can be a right pain getting your feet in to boots on day 2+ and suddenly they feel loose or tight... Although boot construction is a lot better these days
Gloves - good gloves are worth it, I've got 2 pairs... or possibly 3 now.. Although 1 pair is my daily skiing pair of gloves and the others are emergency / muck about in the snow ones. Although that might be a bit extreme... I like the ones you can attach to your wrists - it stops them from falling or sliding down the mountainside.
Goggles - you'll need to check to see if you need them. if you haven't got any, you will almost certainly end up buying some (sods law) and if you do buy some you may well end up not using them....!!
Sunscreen/block - depends on how you tan, but if it is sunny you should apply some to your lips + face.
Snood/scarf... Worth it, if it is windy. I don't bother with these, but my sons like them as does my wife.
Dry slope/indoor ski lessons - for both of you, it will get you both used to putting boots on, tightening them up, etc.. and having your clothing on, etc.. They can be quite popular at this time of year, but will save you a lot of time on day 1 with faffing about. You don't need very long, but maybe 2 x 2 hours. This will help a lot and ultimately mean you should improve at a faster rate and get to enjoy more of the slopes when you're out there.
Enjoy - very jealous, especially as we haven't been last season or going this season
It's a fabulous holiday.ETA : take a look here for prices - https://www.sportsdirect.com/skiing/mens-ski-wear?... Some decent stuff on there and not too expensive.
As you mentioned, I wouldn't bother buying a helmet for your son.. He will quickly outgrow it and you just end up buying another one.
Layers are the way to go. You can always take them off, but you can't put them on if you're halfway up the mountain and it's in the hotel/chalet or at home!!
Edited by eps on Tuesday 7th January 16:57
ETA : Now you've got me looking at ski gear!!! and we're not even going!!!
Edited by eps on Tuesday 7th January 16:58
eps said:
It's not worth spending lots on ski gear for your first trip - especially as you or your son might not like it, but you do need a good balance of decent stuff so that you're not cold or wet. Don't know what the weather conditions are like in Slovenia for that time of year...
Of course one person's cheap or decent is another persons expensive or rubbish..!!
I've mostly avoided getting my two son's decent stuff - i.e. branded as they grow out of it rapidly. But at least our second son can get wear out of the older son's stuff.
I did pick up a few sets of Nevica stuff a couple of seasons back which did for my son and a couple's son who we go with and will do for my younger son as well Which is half decent.
Some of my stuff is branded and some not... or at least Nevica vs North Face, etc..
It's quite difficult as it depends on how 'hardy' you both are - only you really know that.
What I would recommend are...
3 pairs of tube socks, if not from a 3 pack, the same brand. This guarantees that they are the same thickness and construction - it can be a right pain getting your feet in to boots on day 2+ and suddenly they feel loose or tight... Although boot construction is a lot better these days
Gloves - good gloves are worth it, I've got 2 pairs... or possibly 3 now.. Although 1 pair is my daily skiing pair of gloves and the others are emergency / muck about in the snow ones. Although that might be a bit extreme... I like the ones you can attach to your wrists - it stops them from falling or sliding down the mountainside.
Goggles - you'll need to check to see if you need them. if you haven't got any, you will almost certainly end up buying some (sods law) and if you do buy some you may well end up not using them....!!
Sunscreen/block - depends on how you tan, but if it is sunny you should apply some to your lips + face.
Snood/scarf... Worth it, if it is windy. I don't bother with these, but my sons like them as does my wife.
Dry slope/indoor ski lessons - for both of you, it will get you both used to putting boots on, tightening them up, etc.. and having your clothing on, etc.. They can be quite popular at this time of year, but will save you a lot of time on day 1 with faffing about. You don't need very long, but maybe 2 x 2 hours. This will help a lot and ultimately mean you should improve at a faster rate and get to enjoy more of the slopes when you're out there.
Enjoy - very jealous, especially as we haven't been last season or going this season It's a fabulous holiday.
ETA : take a look here for prices - https://www.sportsdirect.com/skiing/mens-ski-wear?... Some decent stuff on there and not too expensive.
As you mentioned, I wouldn't bother buying a helmet for your son.. He will quickly outgrow it and you just end up buying another one.
Layers are the way to go. You can always take them off, but you can't put them on if you're halfway up the mountain and it's in the hotel/chalet or at home!!
ETA : Now you've got me looking at ski gear!!! and we're not even going!!!
Lots of good stuff in there but disagree with comment about helmet. My son's helmet is in it's 5th year and still fits perfectly, whilst he's on his 3rd set of salopettes and jackets. Decathlon do a great range of multi size helmets that can grow with your head. His cost £15 five years ago, helmet rental where we go is £15 per week.Of course one person's cheap or decent is another persons expensive or rubbish..!!
I've mostly avoided getting my two son's decent stuff - i.e. branded as they grow out of it rapidly. But at least our second son can get wear out of the older son's stuff.
I did pick up a few sets of Nevica stuff a couple of seasons back which did for my son and a couple's son who we go with and will do for my younger son as well
Which is half decent.Some of my stuff is branded and some not... or at least Nevica vs North Face, etc..
It's quite difficult as it depends on how 'hardy' you both are - only you really know that.
What I would recommend are...
3 pairs of tube socks, if not from a 3 pack, the same brand. This guarantees that they are the same thickness and construction - it can be a right pain getting your feet in to boots on day 2+ and suddenly they feel loose or tight... Although boot construction is a lot better these days
Gloves - good gloves are worth it, I've got 2 pairs... or possibly 3 now.. Although 1 pair is my daily skiing pair of gloves and the others are emergency / muck about in the snow ones. Although that might be a bit extreme... I like the ones you can attach to your wrists - it stops them from falling or sliding down the mountainside.
Goggles - you'll need to check to see if you need them. if you haven't got any, you will almost certainly end up buying some (sods law) and if you do buy some you may well end up not using them....!!
Sunscreen/block - depends on how you tan, but if it is sunny you should apply some to your lips + face.
Snood/scarf... Worth it, if it is windy. I don't bother with these, but my sons like them as does my wife.
Dry slope/indoor ski lessons - for both of you, it will get you both used to putting boots on, tightening them up, etc.. and having your clothing on, etc.. They can be quite popular at this time of year, but will save you a lot of time on day 1 with faffing about. You don't need very long, but maybe 2 x 2 hours. This will help a lot and ultimately mean you should improve at a faster rate and get to enjoy more of the slopes when you're out there.
Enjoy - very jealous, especially as we haven't been last season or going this season
It's a fabulous holiday.ETA : take a look here for prices - https://www.sportsdirect.com/skiing/mens-ski-wear?... Some decent stuff on there and not too expensive.
As you mentioned, I wouldn't bother buying a helmet for your son.. He will quickly outgrow it and you just end up buying another one.
Layers are the way to go. You can always take them off, but you can't put them on if you're halfway up the mountain and it's in the hotel/chalet or at home!!
Edited by eps on Tuesday 7th January 16:57
ETA : Now you've got me looking at ski gear!!! and we're not even going!!!
Edited by eps on Tuesday 7th January 16:58
eps said:
ETA : Now you've got me looking at ski gear!!! and we're not even going!!!
sorry! Very helpful post though, thank you! Hadn't even considered sunscreen for instance.
eps said:
Of course one person's cheap or decent is another persons expensive or rubbish..!!
Yes I keep seeing posters saying decent socks, gloves etc and wonder what "decent" means? I don't mind spending money on stuff I'll use again as I spend plenty of time outdoors, so things like jacket, socks, base layers and the like I'll use again. Helmets, goggles, and ski pants will be a once a year item, and knowing me if I like it will get upgraded anyway, so may get worn for 6 days and never see the light of day again! Decathlon looks like a good option for those items.
To be fair to my son although he likes his labels in clothes he wears all the time, I don't think he'll be too fussed (as long as it's not neon yellow!) for ski gear he won't wear when he's back at home. I'll just tell him Mountain Warehouse is the Stone Island of ski wear
Looking at ski jackets, I think the outdoor wear I've got already will probably suffice if I layer up. I've got waterproof jackets with hoods that fit over climbing helmets, plus a softshell or down filled jacket to go underneath, and base layers. It's what I'd wear if I was going out in the snow here, and means I can strip layers off if I get hot.
Some great advice here but don't get too beaten up over all the stuff available. You're not going to the Pole and there will be shops if you've missed anything.
'All the gear and no idea' applies as much on the ski slopes as anywhere else! Go to Courcheval 1850 and check out all the Russian 'nieces' in their diamond studded jackets and leather ski trousers! (At least no idea about skiing......)
'All the gear and no idea' applies as much on the ski slopes as anywhere else!
Go to Courcheval 1850 and check out all the Russian 'nieces' in their diamond studded jackets and leather ski trousers! (At least no idea about skiing......)Dare2b is another brand worth looking at, not expensive.
I would not go wild buying things. My suggestion would be to take one or two long sleeve layers you can wear a t shirt underneath, a couple of pairs of thermal leggings and 3 pairs of ski socks. I used ski socks from Aldi this year, really good and sized.
I’d buy a helmet as who wants to use someone else’s sweaty lid and they are not expensive, personally I like goggles with a helmet.
Gloves I would probably buy 2 pairs as being beginners they are likely to get wet. You may also consider getting some thin inner gloves - Karrimor do running gloves which are good for this.
Oh and talking if neon yellow - bright colours are the thing to have on the slopes - makes it easier to spot each other.
I would not go wild buying things. My suggestion would be to take one or two long sleeve layers you can wear a t shirt underneath, a couple of pairs of thermal leggings and 3 pairs of ski socks. I used ski socks from Aldi this year, really good and sized.
I’d buy a helmet as who wants to use someone else’s sweaty lid and they are not expensive, personally I like goggles with a helmet.
Gloves I would probably buy 2 pairs as being beginners they are likely to get wet. You may also consider getting some thin inner gloves - Karrimor do running gloves which are good for this.
Oh and talking if neon yellow - bright colours are the thing to have on the slopes - makes it easier to spot each other.
Thanks for all the advice, been very very useful!
Chatted to son tonight, he's not fussed where stuff comes from as long as he's warm and it's in dark colours - can't convince him on the neon yellow - so I'll be able to kit him out for much less than I expected. I'll wear something colourful so he can see me, and I'll look out for the stealth skier in all black!
Private lessons are booked, we were going to be split into different groups otherwise, and we're going to do 2 hours a day. Also got membership at the Snowdome and we start our fast track lessons in 2 weeks. Excited!
Chatted to son tonight, he's not fussed where stuff comes from as long as he's warm and it's in dark colours - can't convince him on the neon yellow
- so I'll be able to kit him out for much less than I expected. I'll wear something colourful so he can see me, and I'll look out for the stealth skier in all black! Private lessons are booked, we were going to be split into different groups otherwise, and we're going to do 2 hours a day. Also got membership at the Snowdome and we start our fast track lessons in 2 weeks. Excited!
DoubleSix said:
Mate, sunscreen thing is no joke. End your holiday on day one if you don’t apply that stuff properly.
I always go for these types - https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/SEALED-2020-SKI-SUN-CRE... If the sun doesn't get my nose/cheeks the wind will get my lips.
Just thought I'd pop back in to say thank you all for both the location and kit advice.
We arrived Sat afternoon, first skiing was Sunday so just completed 3rd day.
Son and I are having an absolute blast, one of the best holidays I've ever had and we will definitely be doing it again!
He's taken to it like a duck to water and I cant keep up with him, but I'm 48 so I'm fine with that
For me it's been 3 days of constant concentration but it all seemed to click into place on my last two runs this afternoon so I'm really looking forward to tomorrow.
At my age it's bloody hard work, falling over hurts but mainly because I seem to land on the same spot on my right arse cheek every time, and I was so stiff this morning. But I'm loving it!
I've wanted to go skiing for a long long time and so glad we've eventually done it.
Whoever said it would be the best holiday I'd have with my son was spot on! Think I'll be booking next years as soon as I get home.
Thanks again!
We arrived Sat afternoon, first skiing was Sunday so just completed 3rd day.
Son and I are having an absolute blast, one of the best holidays I've ever had and we will definitely be doing it again!
He's taken to it like a duck to water and I cant keep up with him, but I'm 48 so I'm fine with that
For me it's been 3 days of constant concentration but it all seemed to click into place on my last two runs this afternoon so I'm really looking forward to tomorrow.
At my age it's bloody hard work, falling over hurts but mainly because I seem to land on the same spot on my right arse cheek every time, and I was so stiff this morning. But I'm loving it!
I've wanted to go skiing for a long long time and so glad we've eventually done it.
Whoever said it would be the best holiday I'd have with my son was spot on! Think I'll be booking next years as soon as I get home.
Thanks again!
Excellent!! It can be a great holiday - rest assured some days are harder than others - snowstorms, sleet or rain and a lack of snow... I think Thursdays are usually the hardest day - you're tired and the skis don't quite seem to do what they're supposed to! But you get over that and then it's much more fun.
If you want to improve book two holidays in a ski season. You will improve a lot, but for now enjoy!!
Very jealous as we haven't been able to get on the slopes this season or last season...
It can be a great holiday - rest assured some days are harder than others - snowstorms, sleet or rain and a lack of snow... I think Thursdays are usually the hardest day - you're tired and the skis don't quite seem to do what they're supposed to! But you get over that and then it's much more fun.If you want to improve book two holidays in a ski season. You will improve a lot, but for now enjoy!!
Very jealous as we haven't been able to get on the slopes this season or last season...craig1912 said:
What’s Kranjaska Gora like now- been a while since I’ve been.
Can't compare onviously as it's our first time here and first ski trip, but I was chatting to a group last night who are here for their 6th time and they said they've noticed an increase in visitors from the UK and a slight increase in prices but they still love it. It's a small town but plenty of choices for food and drink, clearly focused towards families, with very friendly people. As a resort for complete beginners like us it's been really good so far.
eps said:
Excellent!! It can be a great holiday - rest assured some days are harder than others - snowstorms, sleet or rain and a lack of snow... I think Thursdays are usually the hardest day - you're tired and the skis don't quite seem to do what they're supposed to! But you get over that and then it's much more fun.
Skis haven't done what they're supposed to for 3 days It can be a great holiday - rest assured some days are harder than others - snowstorms, sleet or rain and a lack of snow... I think Thursdays are usually the hardest day - you're tired and the skis don't quite seem to do what they're supposed to! But you get over that and then it's much more fun. although yesterday afternoon felt like a noticeable improvement. Don't feel as sore today as yesterday, but I spent less time on my backside yesterday. Once we started skiing yesterday morning the aches and pains disappeared quickly anyway.
Got tricked into going down the black run with my son and instructor this afternoon.
Keeps getting better every day, didnt think we'd be doing this sort of stuff after 5 days. Fantastic but bloody knackering. Doing the night skiing for 1st time in couple of hours.
I am seriously contemplating booking another 4 day trip for the two of us mid to late March when I get back, so any recommendations for somewhere with snow at that time of year would be appreciated.
Keeps getting better every day, didnt think we'd be doing this sort of stuff after 5 days. Fantastic but bloody knackering. Doing the night skiing for 1st time in couple of hours.
I am seriously contemplating booking another 4 day trip for the two of us mid to late March when I get back, so any recommendations for somewhere with snow at that time of year would be appreciated.
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