It’s that time of year again, everyone in Colorado is getting ready to strap on sticks and bomb the mountains!  You should be out there with them! Colorado is home to world class skiing just hours from Denver, and if you haven’t taken advantage of it, make this the year you do.

If this is the year you want to start skiing my advice is to spend the $339 on an Epic Pass for Keystone and Arapahoe Basin. This sounds like a big financial commitment, but this pass will more than pay for itself if you go just 4 times in a season! This is a basic level pass, Keystone and A Basin have beginner friendly runs up to backcountry expert level and are two of the closest resorts in Colorado.

If you are planning of renting equipment do it anywhere else but at the resort, you can save tons of money by renting equipment in the ski town, and even more by renting from a ski shop wherever you live. Beginners should defer to the judgement of whoever is helping you with your rental and take a lesson if you can!

For first time skiers, you should be looking for skis that have nice “rockered tips,” as this makes turning much easier and complete at slower speeds. Get boots that don’t cut off circulation to your calves, and have your bindings set to release easily in case of a fall! Below is what a ski with “rockered tips” looks like!

For first time snowboarders, look for a board based off of your weight, not your height. It is a common myth that height determines usefulness, and does not serve new boarders well. Short boards move faster so keep that in mind.

Also be prepared for your butt to feel like tenderized meat while you’re learning. The barrier for entry for snowboarding is much higher, but take to heart, it’s easier to master than skiing. New boarders should look for a rocker board with fat directional twin edges, as this makes turning easier, and provides stability for toe side edge, and heel side edge.

We are lucky enough to live in a place where the mountains can be enjoyed all year round! With the right equipment and a good attitude this winter sport is a blast. In Colorado, a day on the slopes is a day well spent!