WJenness
Active member
Hello everyone,
I just started skiing towards the end of last season (March 10th or so) and got in about 8 or 10 days before the end of the year. All of it was on rental equipment, and as I intend to ski much more this year (and in future years) I'd like to get my own stuff.
I've read around here a bit, and know that boots that fit right are the most important thing, so I know what to do on that front... I'm a little more confused on the ski / binding / pole issue. I walked through the Sports Authority at the mall yesterday at lunch and they had a couple packages on sale (boots, skis, bindings, poles), for what looked to be decent prices. Is it worth giving these a shot? How much of a realistic shot of the boots fitting right do I have? Or am I better off piecing something together? If so, what would be a decent budget to start with? I don't want to repeat what I did when I started fencing... I bought a "starter set" and replaced almost everything from it before the end of my first season fencing... I'd rather make the 'right' initial investment that will keep me happy through at least the whole season. I'm thinking of getting one of these packages, and if the boots aren't perfect, replacing those fairly quickly, reasonable strategy?
Also, when people replace equipment, is it due to wearing it out? Stepping up to something newer and better? Progressing in ability past what you've got?
Sizing: sizing of boots is easiest... but what about skis? I'm 6'4" and about 230lbs, what should I be skiing on?
As for ability, towards the end of last season I was able to negotiate blues without much of an issue, but doing so with people passing me on my way down the hill. I could feel myself improving each time out though, so hopefully that will continue this winter. I made it down a couple of blacks without falling, but very cautiously with back and forth across the trail... not really skiing it.
I'm trying to learn about equipment and get it all figured out before it gets cold enough to hit the slopes.
I bought a bronze pass for Wachusett this winter and will hopefully be going a couple nights a week after work, and making some weekend trips up to Sunday River (a friend has a place at brookside).
Thanks in advance for any help / suggestions / guidance.
-w
I just started skiing towards the end of last season (March 10th or so) and got in about 8 or 10 days before the end of the year. All of it was on rental equipment, and as I intend to ski much more this year (and in future years) I'd like to get my own stuff.
I've read around here a bit, and know that boots that fit right are the most important thing, so I know what to do on that front... I'm a little more confused on the ski / binding / pole issue. I walked through the Sports Authority at the mall yesterday at lunch and they had a couple packages on sale (boots, skis, bindings, poles), for what looked to be decent prices. Is it worth giving these a shot? How much of a realistic shot of the boots fitting right do I have? Or am I better off piecing something together? If so, what would be a decent budget to start with? I don't want to repeat what I did when I started fencing... I bought a "starter set" and replaced almost everything from it before the end of my first season fencing... I'd rather make the 'right' initial investment that will keep me happy through at least the whole season. I'm thinking of getting one of these packages, and if the boots aren't perfect, replacing those fairly quickly, reasonable strategy?
Also, when people replace equipment, is it due to wearing it out? Stepping up to something newer and better? Progressing in ability past what you've got?
Sizing: sizing of boots is easiest... but what about skis? I'm 6'4" and about 230lbs, what should I be skiing on?
As for ability, towards the end of last season I was able to negotiate blues without much of an issue, but doing so with people passing me on my way down the hill. I could feel myself improving each time out though, so hopefully that will continue this winter. I made it down a couple of blacks without falling, but very cautiously with back and forth across the trail... not really skiing it.
I'm trying to learn about equipment and get it all figured out before it gets cold enough to hit the slopes.
I bought a bronze pass for Wachusett this winter and will hopefully be going a couple nights a week after work, and making some weekend trips up to Sunday River (a friend has a place at brookside).
Thanks in advance for any help / suggestions / guidance.
-w