Winter activities that require fresh powder to enjoy can be a lot of fun for anyone during the colder months of the year. If you routinely participate in such activities whenever you can as soon as conditions are right, you’ll want to do everything you can to get the most out of your time on the slopes. To accomplish this goal, here are six specific things you should avoid doing, brought to you by the snow sports experts from ASO Mammoth, your one-stop shop for Mammoth snowboard rentals, high-quality ski gear, safety equipment, and tips for hitting the slopes safely.
1. Not Knowing or Accepting Your Limit
We’re all for pushing yourself in a reasonable way to learn new skills while skiing or snowboarding to increase your confidence. However, avoid going too far beyond your limits so you can remain comfortably in control of your movements and actions. This is for your own safety as well as the safety of others around you.
2. Putting Your Ski Poles Up in the Air for No Reason
Ski poles are meant to be used to maintain your balance, support, and timing, so they do serve an important function. What we recommend avoiding is randomly putting these ski accessories up in the air for no real reason while on the slopes. For starters, this isn’t a good look, and you could potentially poke or injure a nearby skier.
3. Not Being Prepared to Use the Lift
For newer skiers or snowboarders, lifts can be a bit intimidating. Take some time before you go on your winter getaway to brush up on the basics of using the lifts properly. The main points to remember are:
• Keep your ski poles or snowboard close to your body so you’re not disturbing other lift users.
• Put down the safety bar when you get on and lift it up again when it’s time to get off.
• Stand up straight when the lift stops. Also, if you’re on skis, use your poles to guide you.
4. Not Coming with the Equipment that’s Right for You
The one thing to absolutely avoid on the slopes is not having equipment suitable for your body size and skill level. If you’ve outgrown equipment since you last skied or snowboarded, there are local shops in popular winter spots like Mammoth Mountain where you can rent what you need. These shops give you time to try things out, and staff can offer personalized advice about what you’ll be using.
5. Not Being Fully Aware of Your Surroundings
Protect yourself and anyone else around you by being mindful of your surroundings at all times before you ski or snowboard to your heart’s content. At the very least, know who’s around you, where you’ll be landing, and what natural obstacles you’ll need to avoid or be aware of before you start having fun.
6. Not Taking Breaks
Avoid not taking any breaks throughout your day to minimize the risk of injury and weather-related fatigue. At places like Mammoth Mountain, there are conveniently located lodges where you can grab a bite to eat, do a little shopping, and physically recharge before heading back to the slopes. On a related note, bring a reusable water bottle with you to stay sufficiently hydrated.
Snowboarding and skiing are fantastic ways to enjoy your time on the slopes, so don’t spoil your time on the mountain by not following these guidelines. The first step is to make sure you start with high-quality equipment that’s fitted properly. ASO Mammoth is your go-to shop for ski rentals in Mammoth as well as snowboarding gear and safety tips from the snow sports experts. We have everything you need to have a blast, including advice on how to enjoy the slopes safely. Drop in or give us a call at 760-965-3444.