Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Taking a Snowboard or Ski Vacation?

Protecting Yourself For The Challenge Of Winter Sports
 
If you have chosen a snowboard or ski vacation this winter then you must have the right equipment that will enhance the excitement of winter sports.  Ski vacation gives an amazing experience of skiing in a pleasant environment along with great exercise to your body.  Safety is the essential element that has to be up most on the mind to enjoy uninterrupted fun of winter sports.  Safety equipment can be had from ski resorts on rental or you can have your own equipment that can give a perfect fit for you.
 
Choosing The Accessories
 
1. Right clothing:  The first important requirement for winter sports is to get perfectly clothed.  You will have to wear snug clothes and dress in layers to retain the body heat.  The idea behind the multiple layers of clothing is that it helps in trapping the heat and keeps you warm.

o The first layer:  Good and long underwear forms the base of the layer.  Here you should ensure that you feel warm rather than look sexy.

o The second layer:  The next layer is the waistcoat to provide warmth to the middle of the body.  Make sure that the clothes are of easily removable kind in case you feel too warm.  You can wear a woolen sweater or a snow jacket with an inner lining.  Fleece tops would be a good choice in this case; as they are specially designed by the clothing companies and are popular among people regularly engaging in winter sports.
o The third layer:  Protecting the open body parts forms the last layer of clothing.  A jacket with inner lining should be chosen that is able to provide proper ventilation with waterproof qualities.  Choose a pant with a gaiter fitting over the top of the boot that will prevent the snow from entering inside and making you cold.
 
2. A perfect pair of boots:  Perfect fitting is the most important element for winter sports.  While choosing boots for skiing, remember that they should be snugger than your normal fitting.  They should prevent the risk of twisting of ankles due to the pressure exerted on them while swerving and turning.  The socks that you wear should be made of woolen fabric, and fit well in your shoes.
 
3. Gloves:  A good grip over the skates can help you ski easier and faster.  Hence, the gloves that you wear should be made up of material that increases the grip.  Gloves with thermal lining are advisable for winter sports.
 
4. Other things :  The other materials like a helmet, earmuffs and scarves and a pair of sunglasses are needed to protect the other exposable parts of body like the head, neck and eyes.  These are the vital parts and not to be ignored or it may lead to several severe injuries.
 
5. Accessories:  Of course, the right choice of accessories like skis and poles are important for a good skiing experience and they are available in a number of varieties.  The type of poles that are to be used depends upon the kind of ski sport you choose.
 
Most of the equipments for winter sports are expensive hence if you are a beginner try with the rental equipments before investing in some of your own.  However, clothes are an exception to that.  Safety comes first while participating in any kind of sports and more so with winter sports.
 
Blessings,
Dr. Reggie Cochran Ph.D. DCH CPMA DD
"I became a World Champion in my field. I
can help you become a Champion in yours"



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