Even if the calendar doesn’t yet show it, the coming “spring ahead” clock change and warming temperatures mean it’s time put away your heavy ski coat and unzip your vents. Spring skiing is here! To help you make the transition, we’ve got five tips to ensure your last turns of the season are as fun, safe, comfortable, and pleasurable as the first. It’s our Spring Skiing Survival Guide!
Know Your Snow
Whether you call it corn, mashed potatoes, boilerplate or bullet proof, our terms for describing spring snow are colorful.
Spring snow can be tricky, so be smart and strategic about where and when you ski.
It helps to know what happened the day before. Was it warm in the afternoon with slushy, melting conditions? If so, have another cup of coffee or go out to breakfast and let the snow soften.
Likewise, follow the sun. East-facing slopes will warm up in the morning, while being the first to freeze in the afternoon. West-facing slopes may be treacherous in the morning, but peak to their prime after lunch. Best bet, as always, look for true north pistes.
Pro Tip: Be careful on the flats. Flatter terrain, especially run-outs and approaches to lift lanes get a lot of sun. When they melt, the snow becomes grabby. It’s shockingly easy to get jerked around and fall. Slow down in these areas and remain loose, adjusting forward and back as the snow grabs your skis or board.
Pro Tip: Get a full tune. Sharp edges and warm weather wax will make the ever-changing conditions easier to ski and ride.
Save Your Skin
Sun damage is an issue for skiers and snowboarders. Not only are we outside for hours at a time, but UV exposure goes up 12% with every 3,000-foot increase in elevation, while reflection from snow increases UV exposure by 50%.
Protect your face, neck, hands and lips by wearing a mineral-based sunscreen every day you ski, even when it’s cloudy. That might sound like overkill, but how many days has the morning started gray and snowy, but by afternoon the sky is bluebird?
Depending upon where you ski, the answer can be “a lot.”
And while I have no proof of this, I also like to think sunscreen protects my face from windburn and other detrimental impacts of exposure.
Likewise, always have a tube of SPF lip balm in a pocket and reapply both sunscreen and chapstick throughout the day.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget the front and back of your neck. Most of the time, these areas are covered up by neck gaiters and jacket collars. But not always in spring time. Don’t suffer an unexpected burn.
Pro Tip: Take care of your eyes. Wear goggles or sunglasses with full-spectrum UV protection lenses.
Cool Off With Vents
Obviously, you’ll wear fewer layers come spring, but if the weather changes rapidly, you don’t want to be caught wearing a lightweight shell or, worse, shorts.
Our favorite ski pants have ventilation zippers on the side seams or along the inseams. Likewise, work the pit zips on your jacket. Unzip before you’re overheated and you’ll be more comfortable throughout the day.
Pro Tip: If your head is hot, open your helmet vents. Most helmets have them and it’s much safer to let cooler air in than to ditch the lid completely.
All About al Fresco
We think its true — almost everything tastes better outside, and that includes beer.
Warming weather offers a perfect excuse to reserve a deck or patio table at the special on-mountain restaurant you’ve wanted to try.
Spring is also a great time to bring your lunch to the top of the mountain and picnic at altitude. Tuck a sandwich or burrito into your pocket for DIY dining.
Once you’ve got food, take time to enjoy the moment. Feel the sun on your cheeks. Chat and laugh with friends. Breathe deeply, drawing in the elixir of cool mountain air as it contrasts with the warmth of the sun. Bask in the mountains’ glow.
Take a respite from rushing on these spring skiing days. With the season largely behind you, you’re in bonus time.
Pro Tip: Hydration is always important whether the temperatures are frigid or mild. Take water breaks or carry a small refillable water bottle. Drink before you feel thirsty, especially if you are sweating.
Pro Tip: It’s no fun taking off your helmet for a nice meal or at après only to squint or wear your goggles in the bright sun. Bring sunglasses with you and you’ll be more comfortable, while looking especially chic.
Keep the Party Going
Enjoy closing day festivities at as many mountains as you can and celebrate the wonderful winter just passed. Check resort websites for live music, pond skims, community races, and more from now through closing day.
Enjoy!
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