First Time Skier's Tips

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.

• How to Choose a Ski Resort

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.

• What to Wear Skiing
• Save on Ski Wear

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.

• How To Choose a Ski Lesson Program

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.

• Skier Safety Tips
• Ski Trail Ratings