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 There are lots to think about when organising and buying for a family skiing holiday, especially if it's the first time you have taken little ones.
Little Skiers is a family run business specialising in ski clothing and accessories from infants to teenagers. With our experience of taking our Little Skiers skiing, here's our TOP 10 TIPS to consider before you head off to the slopes
- LAYERS, LAYERS, LAYERS
A good system of layers will adapt to all kinds of weather conditions. In a week's holiday you can one minute be baking on the slopes and the next day freezing in temperatures well below zero. A thermal set (top & bottoms) to start as a base layer, then a micro fleece layer (either top alone or with bottoms) that will provide the warmth as the mid layer. A soft thin micro-fleece and/or jersey ski polo top should be enough for most European resorts but you can add a thicker fleece or double up for colder resorts. Then the obvious final layer; the ski jacket and pants. Little Skiers recommends KoziKidz Thermals.
- SKI JACKETS & SKI PANTS
The primary function is to keep you dry but the most importantly it needs to be waterproof (not water resistant) with taped seams, windproof & breathable. The insulation provides extra warmth to the jacket. The key is a breathable jacket, as the moisture produced when skiing must be wicked away from the body, through the base layers and OUT of the jacket. If it settles inside the jacket then when you stop, like on chair lifts, the cold weather cools the water vapour, chilling your child. Little Skiers have a wide range of brands to suit all budgets, from separates to all in one and sets.
- TAKE 2 PAIRS OF MITTENS
Mittens are warmer than gloves but inevitably mittens & gloves will get damp while making snowballs and angels. If your child feels the cold, consider thermal liners or chemical hand warmers, which provide heat for 8 hours.
- SKI SOCKS
It is worth spending a bit of money on good ski socks (don't buy tube socks, get fitted socks). Comfort is a priority. Buy 2-3 specific ski socks, which are fitted & have extra padding on the shins.
- SKIING EQUIPMENT
Ski reins are a great training tool for learners which saves your back and for older children who are ready for their first real skis, phone some local snow domes to see if they are selling any off, a new wax and edge only costs around ?20. Little Skiers recommends Nipper Grip reins
- A POCKET FULL OF SNACKS
Cereal bars, mini chocolate bars or raisins are excellent snacks to give them instant energy. Ski school is hard & thirsty work so also consider small drinks that fit into pockets, as many European resorts don't allow rucksacks to be taken to ski school.
- USED THEIR SKI JACKETS FOR SCHOOL?
A quick wash with Nikwax waterproofing will restore the waterproof protection on the jacket. Little Skiers recommends NIKWAX products
- DON'T FORGET THE SUN TAN LOTION
Sun protection and lip salves are essential to prevent chapping from the wind as well as the sun, put it on every day. Look for small tubes containing both cream and a lip salve with neck cords & are easy to apply with gloves on.
- VISIT YOUR LOCAL SNOWDOME BEFORE
There are a whole host of activities to get your Little Skiers and Teen Skiers revved up for your holiday. Get some practise in & build confidence with skiing lessons, just tobogganing or have fun trying free styling at Grom Camps around the country - no age limits!
- HELMETS
Helmets are essential; they are never too young to protect their heads. Adjustable helmets are available for children meaning they can last quite a few years. So rather than risk hiring a helmet where you don't know if they have been dropped, invest in a quality brand. Set an example and wear a helmet too! Little Skiers recommends Bollé
Skiing holidays with your children are fantastic and you will have many great family holidays together for years to come. For further advice and helpful hints from other parents, visit Little Skiers - and don't forget to email us with your helpful hints to share!
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