How to Ski - 60 Ski Tips For Beginners

We cover everything from what to pack for a ski trip, your outfit, equipment, first steps, how to navigate, hotel selection and more

We cover everything from what to pack for a ski trip, how to pick your outfit, how to select your equipment, your first steps on the slope, how to navigate, and the most important aspects of selecting your hotel. Whether you're a complete novice or just getting back into the sport after a few years away, these tips will help you hit the slopes with confidence. We are trying to keep it short and on point. You will find many small insights that will increase your chance of becoming a decent rider from the first week and ensure your vacation will be unforgettable fun.

How to dress for a ski trip

Here are 14 ski tips for beginners on how to dress up before hitting the slopes for the first time.

Dress in 3 layers.

Stay warm and dry by dressing in three layers. The first layer should be moisture-wicking and breathable, the second layer - insulation, and the last layer should be protective - a ski jacket. Consider wearing thermal underpants if the temperature is below 15F or -10C. Dressing in four layers is never a good idea - you need maximum comfort. It may be appropriate to wear only two layers at the end of the season when there is plenty of sun and it's relatively warm.

Wear a comfortable moisture-wicking thermal body layer.

If you don't want to spend money on thermal t-shirts, any simple cotton t-shirt will do, but you will sweat. Thermal t-shirts are the perfect body layer because they are breathable and moisture-wicking.

Take two different mid-layers with you to the ski resort.

Simple fleece is my favorite mid-layer. There is nothing more comfortable, soft, and gentle than fleece. You should bring one thin fleece and one solid fleece to the ski resort.

What is the point of having two different fleeces? By default, a thin fleece will do the job, but what if it gets freezing? Wear a solid mid-layer when the temperature drops below 15F or -10C.

How to choose ski pants - Four key factors to consider:

Comfort - It should be comfortable because you'll be doing squats all day.
Waterproofness - shopping around, you'll come across waterproof ratings between 5K-20K. The higher the number, the better suited they are to handle wet conditions if your adventure takes an unexpected turn. There are higher-grade waterproof fabrics such as Gore-Tex for an even better defense against outdoor moisture.
Warmth - If you have warm enough pants, you can avoid the body pants layer, which I personally dislike.
Pockets - another crucial factor. Ensure that it can be closed and that it is comfortable.

In the case of beginner skiers (not snowboarders), 5000mm will be sufficient.

How to choose ski jacket

Ski jackets are designed specifically for skiing and are different than winter jackets; they are usually lighter and more breathable with good water resistance.
The very budget version has 5000mm water resistance and 5000g breathability and is designed for around 15F or -10c temperature. It should be enough for a start. More expensive versions will be 10000mm and higher, and the best ski jackets will include gore-tex material.
Other features to look for in a ski jacket:

The pockets should all have zippers, they should have an internal pocket, and they should be big and comfortable.
How does it look? Well... we all care about how we look on the slopes, and a ski jacket is one of the main attributes of that look. If you look unique on the slopes, your friends will quickly spot you.
Zippers for ventilation.
Make sure the buff fits comfortably around the neck.
The length of your jacket will protect you better from snow coming under it if you go into powder.
Usually the hood does not fit over helmets, but when it does, it is very cool in windy weather.

Never wear a hoodie as a mid-layer.

In the end, it's about comfort - if you wear the hoodie under your ski jacket, it will crumple, or you will take it out, and you will have two hoodies, a neck gaiter, and a helmet, which is too much.

How to choose ski gloves?

Double gloves are my favorite.

What are the benefits of double gloves? When a piece of snow gets in accidentally, it will not touch your fingers, and the base glove will protect your fingers until the snow evaporates. Double layers keep your hands extremely warm, and if the outer layer of your gloves is Gore-Tex, any snow that comes in will evaporate quickly and won't freeze your fingers.

My favorite - burton's gloves (very affordable gloves). The base glove is made of ultra thin fleece, and the warm layer is made of Gore-Tex.

Why Gore-Tex gloves?

Gore-Tex is a high-quality, versatile waterproof, breathable fabric. There is such a difference between gore-tex and other fabrics. Snow will evaporate in 30 minutes, unlike regular gloves that will freeze your fingers, especially if it comes in.

Why merino wool socks?

Wool socks made from merino wool are the best. I tried everything, but nothing compares to merino wool socks. This is the best way to keep your legs warm. When I get back to the hotel, I wash them quickly, and the next day, they are like new (merino wool dries quickly). Others advise wearing thin socks and then ski socks as a second layer - that is also an option, but it is less comfortable.

Gloves VS mittens

Mittens are warmer, and you can easily fit two layers with mittens. Since you will be taking them off more frequently, you need another layer of protection. I will break it down into three parts:

Snowboarding with regular bindings - definitely gloves. Each time you run, you need to close the bindings with your fingers.
Step-On bindings for snowboarding - Great for mittens. Fingers aren't used much
Skiing - I think both are fine, yet I don't like to hold the ski poles with mittens.

Wear a helmet to protect your head

Please, please don't ride without a helmet, It only takes one accident. A fall on your back and a ski or snowboard hitting your head from behind is the most dangerous accident. The fault can be someone else's, but it won't matter anymore.

Wear ski goggles to protect your eyes from the sun, wind, and snow.

As a skier beginner, you may find yourself tempted to leave the goggles at home on overcast days. After all, why bother when you're barely getting up enough speed? The answer is simple: don't do it! Goggles provide invaluable protection from those pesky snowflakes, sun, wind, and help minimize glare from icy slopes ─ two key factors in making your skiing experience much safer and more enjoyable. So grab them before leaving the hotel─you never know what weather lies ahead during an alpine getaway!

What to wear under ski pants

When you hit the slopes, staying warm and comfortable is key!

To achieve this, you should buy ski pants that are warm enough (I don't like underpants and my legs are never cold). Most people don't mind wearing underpants, so there's something wrong with me.

Thermal base layer pants should be breathable, moisture-wicking, and made of synthetic fabrics like polyester or wool (the best). Another option is to wear a mid-layer like leggings, which are slightly thicker than thermal underwear but just as breathable and much cheaper.

What to wear under a ski helmet?

Never use a bike helmet, kitesurf helmet, or any other helmet. Besides having a thermal layer that keeps your head warm, the ski helmet also has a breathable, adjustable window system that allows you to regulate your head temperature. As well as covering your ears, it has a special connector for your goggles. In most cases, people wear nothing or a full buff under their helmets. There's no need to wear a hat; it only adds bulk.

What to pack for a ski trip

Here is a list of all the absolutely essential items you need to pack for a ski trip

Ski
Ski poles
Ski bindings
Ski boots
Ski pants
Ski jacket
Ski gloves
Ski helmet
Ski goggles
Thermal shirts - base layer
Thermal socks
Underpants - base layer
Fleece - second layer
Ski Buff / Balaclava - nice to have
Lip balm

What to consider before buying a ski pass

You can save time and sometimes money by buying it online.
Let's say you're coming for a seven-day ski holiday and want to buy a seven-day ski pass. You will likely take a 1-day break on your fourth or fifth day if you are a beginner skier. There is usually no big discount for buying more days, so buying five days and adding another will be cheaper VS 7 days ski pass.
Mid-day arrivals may buy a half-day ski pass or buy it from people returning from the main lift.

Use sunscreen with an SPF to protect your skin from the sun.

While it's not Cancun or Palma de Mallorca, the sun on the slopes can be quite misleading. The white snow reflects it, causing your face to burn. You won't understand why your skin burns when you shower in the hotel, so be cautious, especially if your skin doesn't like the direct sun.

Put hand warmers in your pockets or gloves.

Hand warmers are relatively inexpensive. Having 4 in every pocket for a whole day is so nice because they hold heat for up to 12 hours.

What to take with you on the slopes?

You need to bring the essential minimum with you. Make sure you do not bring a backpack and do not bring an extra scarf "in case of." Do not bring water; there are plenty of places to buy a bottle, finish it, and continue. Here is a list of things you should bring:

Keep your ski pass in your hand pocket.
Keep your phone in the internal pocket of your jacket or in your mid-layer. Make sure the pocket can be closed. Don't put your phone in an external pocket. It costs like a whole ski vacation.
Put your credit card and some cash in another internal pocket that you can close, and don't bring your wallet.
Make sure the paper map is in an external, easily accessible pocket.
Put chemical warmers in your pockets, pants, and jacket if you know you will be cold.
Small lip balm.
Small energy snack.

Don't carry a backpack.

Don't let a bulky backpack ruin your experience. Consider renting a locker at the base to keep extra layers, snacks, and other items safe. No need to carry water - just head to any cafeteria or lodge when you're thirsty.

Ski gear - renting, buying, using

How to select ski gear? How to decide whether to buy or rent skis? A few more tips on ski equipment.

First time skiers: what do you need?

If you are just starting out, rent an all-mountain ski. Ideally, the ski should be between the chin and the nose. If you rent from a ski shop, they will take care of you. Check out this guide if you're considering buying, but my advice rent for the first time.

The skis, ski bindings, poles, and helmets can be rented.

Ski boots can also be rented, but I recommend buying them since they are the most important piece of equipment you will need.

Some items cannot be rented.

You can't rent gloves, goggles, ski jackets, ski pants, socks, or first and second layers.

Renting pants, jackets, and goggles may be possible at some rare shops, but double-check ahead of time.

Invest in ski boots, or rent premium boots.

The most important part of your gear is your boots, whether you're snowboarding or skiing. Bad boots can ruin your day if your legs are already wet and frozen by noon, or if they don't fit comfortably. Good boots have heat-moldable liners that adapt to your unique leg over time, so buying boots is a wise decision.

Rent your equipment in advance.

Maximize your ski time by renting ahead! Make sure to plan for 1-2 hours of equipment renting. You can secure rental gear without hassle if you arrive the day before you hit the slopes, but if that is not possible, you can reserve online and save time. Rent takes 1-2 hours, and most stores close after 6pm.

What size ski poles do I need?

The size of a ski pole will depend on your height and skiing style. Generally speaking, for an adult skier, the pole should be about chin height when standing with the pole in a vertical position. Often, ski shops have poles that can be adjusted to suit your height. Additionally, if you’ll be using the poles for racing or freestyle skiing, you may want to choose a size that allows for greater arm extension and easier maneuverability.

What size ski boot do I need?

When shopping for the perfect pair of ski boots, the most important thing is to find the right fit. An excellent way to determine your size is to measure the length and width of your foot. To do this, take a piece of paper and trace the outline of each foot onto it. Once you have your measurements, you can easily compare them against manufacturer sizing charts to find the ideal size for your feet. In case you need more adjustment, many ski boot models also include features such as adjustable liners or different stiffness ratings that allow you to customize your fit further.

How to mount ski bindings?

Make sure your skis have binding already mounted.

Many skis are sold with bindings already attached, all-mountain and downhill. It makes it easier for you to select the right binding for the ski you're buying. When the bindings are installed, you simply adjust them by sliding the heel and toe pieces on the rails according to the length of your boot's sole.

Installing your ski binding

The front of your boot should be pressed into the toe piece of the binding when placing your boot on it.
Slide the heel piece of the binding onto the rail until it is in contact with the rear of the boot after unlocking the heel piece.
Once the locking mechanism is released, you're done!
The binding should be secure and should not move. Release the boot and engage it again to check the fit. The binding and the boot should not have any play.

How to put on ski boots?

Watch 1 minute of this video:

How tight should ski boots be?

Ski boots should be as tight as possible. The art of finding your perfect ski boot is all in the snug fit. Your feet should be tautly enveloped with no traces of slipping or sliding - while you can still move your toes around.

How to ski for beginners - first ski day.

How to Walk in Ski Boots

Plant your heel and roll to the toe: Heel-toe, heel-toe become second nature with practice.

How to carry the ski

You lock them one into another and put them on your shoulder, be careful to watch people behind you. Use the second hand to carry the poles.

How to get in and out of skis

Place your skis on the snow at a right angle to the fall line - that is, pointing across the hill, not down it. In each hand, hold a ski pole and ensure your ski boots are not stuck in the snow.

You should always start with the downhill ski and slide the toe welt, or front ledge of your boot, underneath the binding's toe piece. The heel piece of the binding should be aligned with the cup of your heel, and you should press down firmly. As a result, the binding release lever will pop up with a snap.

Take your uphill ski and repeat the process.

To release: with your ski pole, press downward on the binding release lever while lifting your heel to release your binding.

How to sidestep uphill with a ski

Stand with your skis parallel to each other and the slope. Move your hips a little bit up the hips and then move the front let and the back leg and repeat. Use poles to help yourself

What is the Proper Ski Stance

A proper ski stance is essential for maintaining balance and control while skiing. Here are some tips for achieving a good ski stance:

Stand tall and upright with your feet shoulder-width apart and bend your knees slightly to keep your center of gravity low and allow for better balance.
Keep your feet, hips, and shoulders and your eyes pointed to the direction of travel.
Hold your ski poles in a comfortable position with your arms bent slightly.
Keep your head up and look forward, not down at your skis.

It's also important to remember to relax your muscles and stay flexible in your ski stance, as this will help you respond to changes in terrain and adjust to different ski conditions. With practice, you can develop a comfortable and effective ski stance that allows you to enjoy your time on the slopes.

I find this video short and on point for beginner skiers:

How to Glide on Skis

To glide on skis, follow these steps:

Begin with a proper ski stance.
Shift your weight onto your downhill ski, leaning slightly forward into the slope.
Point your downhill ski in the direction you want to go and push off with your other ski to gain momentum.
As you gain speed, extend your arms and poles out in front of you for balance.
Keep your head up and look forward, not down at your skis.
As you reach the end of the glide, use your poles to help slow down and come to a stop.

Remember to stay relaxed and flexible in your ski stance, and try to keep your skis parallel to each other as you glide. With practice, you'll be able to glide smoothly and efficiently on skis.

How to Ski in a Pizza

A wedge, also known as a pizza, is a basic skiing technique used to slow down or stop on the slopes. To ski in a wedge, follow these steps:

Begin by standing in a comfortable, upright position with your feet shoulder-width apart and your ski poles in hand.
Shift your weight onto your downhill ski and point the tip of your uphill ski inward toward the slope.
As you start to move downhill, use your uphill ski to push against the slope, creating a wedge-shaped barrier of snow in front of you.
Keep your skis in a wedge position and use your poles to help maintain your balance.
To stop, simply turn your skis perpendicular to the slope and come to a halt.

Remember to keep your head up and look forward, and try to keep your upper body upright and relaxed as you ski in a wedge. With practice, you'll be able to control your speed and stop effectively using this technique.

How to stand up when you fall over with a ski

If you're wearing skis, try to push yourself up onto your hands and knees.
If your skis are still on, lift them up off the ground one at a time and place them in front of you.
Position your hands on your knees or thighs and push yourself up into a standing position.
If you're having trouble standing up, try to roll onto your back and use your hands to push yourself up into a sitting position.
Once you're in a seated position, slide your skis back under you and stand up.

Bend your knees to absorb bumps and maintain control.

For both beginner skiers and advanced skiers - never ride with a straight legs on slopes.

Look ahead to where you want to go, not down at your snowboard or ski.

In the beginning, it's scary to move your eyes away from your ski or snowboard - but this is the only way to gain confidence and balance to make progress.

How to select ski school

Group ski lessons VS private ski instructors.

For first time skiers, go with group ski lessons.

Why group lessons? At the beginning, you must spend many hours training simple moves. After getting a straightforward exercise, you will train it for an hour, another exercise for another hour, and so on. You can usually buy a three-day group course for the price of a two-hour private lesson. You will know how to ride after three days of lessons, but after 2 hours of private lessons, you won't.

If you already ride and would like to improve a particular skill, private lessons are a good option. Another tip - avoid big groups; 4-6 students is a good number for a group lesson.

Take lessons only from a certified ski instructor.

Sometimes tourists fall into a trap and take lessons from unprofessional ski instructor, and don't get me wrong, something can be good, but sometimes it's a waste of time. It is best to take ski lessons from a certified school for your first vacation - this is the safest option.

Before hitting the slopes, practice good posture and balance on flat ground.

Practice the postures at home by watching YouTube videos with ski tips for beginners. It can help you boost your learning process on the slopes. But remember - YouTube will never replace a ski lesson. Taking ski lessons from ski schools is the best way to learn how to ski quickly.

How to select a ski hotel

Pick a hotel with sauna facilities.

The choice is yours, but if you have the budget, stay at hotels that have great saunas. After a long skiing day, saunas are the best thing you can do for yourself. You'll feel relaxed and have more energy to hit the slopes the next day.

Americans skiing in Europe.

There is no need to be shocked if you see everyone naked in the sauna in Europe, especially in Austria. In general, I don't care whether I'm with friends or just my partner, but if you go on a ski vacation with friends and mixed couples, it can be awkward. Pick Italy or France if you are traveling with mixed couples.

How to pick a hotel with good sauna facilities

Don't just use the 'sauna' filter on Booking or Expedia sites. There are often small saunas in hotels without any other facilities nearby. Hotels with good sauna facilities will put many pictures of the place - this is the most effective way to filter out those with substandard sauna facilities. Oh, and don't confuse spas with saunas. A spa is a place where you come and pay money for spa treatments.

Pick the location of your hotel first.

Choose a hotel that is close to the lift when you are looking for a hotel. For first-timers, this is especially important. Walking in ski boots isn't fun. I'm trying to keep my hotels within a radius of 0.5 miles or 1 km of the lift.

Ski in ski out hotels

Ski in ski out is amazing - you don't have to walk to and from the lifts. Bypass your hotel and use the nice clean toilets. The advantage of ski-in ski-out hotels is that if you forget something, like your goggles, or want to change your midlayer, you can ride back to the hotel and continue skiing. A con is that it is usually more isolated from the nightlife of the city. So choose what you like more.

What to eat and when

Pick a hotel with breakfast.

Getting a good breakfast before hitting the slopes is essential. It is common for us to go to the bathroom after breakfast, and you should do it comfortably before wearing your ski equipment.

Eat light lunch

Eat light lunches instead of heavy ones. You will feel tired and sleepy after eating a heavy lunch. My favorite meal is meat soup and a small sandwich. Hold on until dinner. All of us love food, but wait until the evening to eat; don't ruin your riding experience with an overfull stomach.

Make sure you bring energy snacks and nuts with you.

When you are tired, they can boost your energy. There are usually plenty of pockets on your ski gear to store a small energy snack.

Drink water.

Keep your body hydrated. You should drink three to four glasses of water per day. More than that, and you'll have to run to the restroom so often.

Navigation in the ski resort and safety.

When you are on the slope, always use a paper map.

Although there are plenty of apps for navigating most ski resorts, old-fashioned paper ski maps are still the most convenient and easiest way. It can fall into the snow. You can rip it and bring a new one tomorrow. Taking it out of your pocket on a chairlift is not a problem; most importantly, you can use it while wearing gloves.

I wrote an article about the top 60 ski resorts in the US, you can download all the maps with high quality from there

Make sure you know when the lifts will be finished working.

Once you are done with your first training days and you are exploring the resort, plan your way back. Make sure you plan your way back with at least 15-30 minutes spare before the lifts shut down. You don't want to get stuck on the mountain and have to walk a few miles.

Look ahead and anticipate changes in the terrain and other skiers or snowboarders.

Remember, you can't control what's behind you, but you can control what's ahead. As well as being responsible for yourself, you are also responsible for the people ahead of you. Slow down if you don't feel 100% in control.

When you ride the chairlift for the first times

You will have the longest time getting off the lift if you take the right edge place. Follow the loading and unloading instructions carefully.

When you fall, stay calm and try to get to the side of the slope.

If you fall, it hurts, and you're not feeling like continuing, move to the side of the slope. This will prevent you from being hit by other skiers or snowboarders.

Know the ski resort's emergency procedures

Know who to contact in the event of an injury or another emergency.

Usually, if it's snowing hard downhill, it's storming up top.

Avoid storms if you are a beginner. They can be extremely dangerous.

Agree on a meeting point and time with your partner and friends.

Sometimes there is no cellular network on the hill, people leave their phones in the hotel, or the battery dies. There are many reasons for you to agree on a meeting point and time because it happens that we lose each other.

When skiing off-piste or in the backcountry

Be aware of the risks and take proper precautions, including carrying the necessary safety equipment and knowing how to use it. Never go off-piste alone. You can spend the whole day digging yourself out of deep snow. Going off-piste or in the backcountry alone is very dangerous.

Know your limits and ski within them.

As a young person, you feel that nothing can stop you. This feeling is one I remember well. Don't try to match someone much better than you; know your limits and ski within them. Whenever your body or brain feels alarmed, slow down. It won't make much difference if you do one more slope or one more turn. An injury can ruin your vacation or your life.

Two to three weeks in advance, train your muscles

There could be a whole article written about it, but I'll summarize it here. First time skiers, after a day or two on the slopes, you won't be able to get out of bed and go to breakfast. Just a little training before you come will make a huge difference. If you're into skiing or snowboarding, you should read this, or just squat a lot 🙂