Avoid Mistakes in Choosing Your First Snowboard
Snowboarding is a great winter sport and in the past few years has attracted many new fans to the slopes. One common phase that all of these new converts go through is walking into the pro shop for the first time and choosing a snowboard. What are the important features to look for?
The first decision you have to make is are you going to get a cheap board or are you prepared to pay for a more expensive quality board? Many beginners believe that they will eventually graduate beyond the novice stage so why should they spend good money on a beginners snowboard. The answer to that is that a beginners board will not give you the same experience as a good quality board. A cheaper board will be made of cheaper materials and will not be constructed as well. A good decision is to go for the best quality board you can reasonably afford. A good beginners board should not cost you more than about $500.
Also, keep in mind that there is an after market for used snow boards - and a quality board will fetch more money and sell faster than a cheap board. When you are ready to move up to intermediate level and want to get a new board, you have a choice. Either resell your snowboard or pass it down to a younger sibling, relative, or friend.
The second decision you will probably make is whether you should get a men’s snowboard or a woman’s snowboard. For men and boys, the decision is simple - get a men’s snowboard. Women, however, have a choice. Many of the better quality women’s board were built specifically for women, for their shape. In addition, many of these snowboards were designed with input from women pro snowboard riders. But everyone is an individual and you may feel that the men’s boards suit you better. The best way to resolve the question is to RENT both a men’s snowboard and a women’s snowboard. Take to the slopes and go with whatever feels more natural to you.
Thirdly, you will have to decide what type of snowboarding you will be mainly participating in. Different snowboards are build for different terrains and different styles of riding.
Freecarve - This type of riding is equivalent to alpine sking. The focus is on speed racing and carving turns. Freecarve snow boards tend to be the stiffest. This lets them really bite into the snow and make turns with ease.
Freestyle - Like to do tricks on you snowboard? Spins? Halfpipes? Then you want more of a freestyle board. These boards tend to be short and very maneuverable.
Freeride - This is the “in-between” board. It’s good for a little bit of speed racing, but not as good as a freecarve board. It’s also good for doing some of the more common snowboard tricks - but not as good as a freestyle board. This type of board, also known as an all-mountain board is one of the most popular boards sold to beginners.
Now we look at some of the more minor decisions. Pick up the board and feel the weight. All things being equal, you’ll want the lighter board. It’ll be more maneuverable. You’ll be able to handle it better and it’ll be lighter to carry.
What about the length of the board? Manufacturers post suggested heights and weights on the back of their boards. But these are just suggestions. Ultimately you want the board that feels most natural to you. As a general rule, however, a longer board will give you more stability at high speeds while a shorter board will let you spin and do tricks easier.
Also, factor in the stiffness of the board. As a beginner, you will probably want a soft-flexing board. One that is forgiving of mistakes.
And lastly, don’t forget style. Pick the most stylish board you can find and enjoy yourself on the slopes.
Written by Jim Garza our expert of the day.
Whats So Good About a Burton Snowboard Jacket
Snowboarding Equipment Made By Riders For Riders!
The Burton Snowboarding equipment Company is owned and run by snowboarders, by having this setup, Burton is continuously improving their products from snowboard boots to snowboard’s, bindings to snowboard clothes.
From a small operation in Southern Vermont, this small family run business that is known as Burton has grown in to a global company with offices across the world. As many would agree Burton has been a major factor in shaping what Snowboarding is today.
Burton has been established as a snowboarding company since 1977. It is a company that does extensive research in order to develop some of the leading snowboard’s, snowboard boots and snowboard bindings in the world. So along with the company history and the vast experience of the staff Burton are manufacturing some of the best snowboard’s and snowboard equipment in the world. Because of this extensive research riders always know when they buy Burton they are buying quality.
So, what’s so special about their jackets. Well they have something called Continuum which is exclusive to Burton. What’s Continuum? its an exclusive technology to Burton. Its based around a seam welded origami construction, it basically eliminates almost all seam tape, stitching holes and thread. This allows the fabric to breath more easily and also takes the moisture away from your body and into the outer wear faster then previous snowboarding jackets. Also because the fabric is more breathable it means that the it can dry faster.
Another factor that concerns some riders is the actual weight of the jacket it self. The Continuum Technology also takes care of that. Due to there being no need for seam taping this reduces the overall weight of the jacket. Now, I’m sure you’re wondering what does that mean for a snow boarder? well that means no matter what you are doing in the snow you’ll be able to do it for longer, faster and drier.
Written by Robert Goldsmith our expert of the day.
Ski Holidays With Highlife Ski & Snowboard
Val d’Isère is one of the most exciting winter destinations in the Alps and offers visitors a combination of top class skiing, lively après ski and upmarket boutiques while still retaining an authentic Alpine village atmosphere. As a result, it has come to be recognised as one of the world’s top ski destinations and is a firm favourite with ski enthusiasts, families and thrill seekers alike. It has also become a popular destination for celebrities – Hugh Grant, Cameron Diaz, Bono and Kylie Minogue have all been spotted there in recent years!
Now in its sixth year, Highlife creates bespoke ski chalet holidays, catering superbly for singles, couples, groups or families. The Highlife concept and the reason that guests return again and again lies in the combination of exceptional service and excellent facilities that every Highlife holiday offers.
Signature finishing touches to Highlife’s award-winning programme include cosy log fires and super ski detox facilities with outdoor hot tubs, saunas and Jacuzzis. Every Highlife guest also savours delicious food & excellent wines as each stunning ski chalet comes with its own talented chef and hosts.
Simon Egan, co-founder and Director of Highlife says, “Our decision to expand to Val d’Isère has come about as a result of feedback from our customers, many of whom are keen to visit this fantastic resort. The skiing in Val d’Isère is among the best available anywhere in the world, so we are very excited to offer our guests the chance to experience it with Highlife.”
Highlife’s award-winning ski holidays are available at a lead-in price of €940 for a catered week in January 2008. This price includes direct scheduled Aer Lingus flights from Dublin, private transfers in 8-seater mini-coaches, chalet accommodation with ski detox facilities and delicious food & wine, a range of exciting ‘Snowtime’ programmes and excellent value for money. Generous child discounts are available throughout the season.
Full details on Highlife’s exclusive range of ski chalet holidays in France can be found at www.highlife.ie. The company can be contacted on +353 1 677 1100 and by email at info@highlife.ie
Written by Highlife Ski & Snowboard our expert of the day.
What You Need To Know About Snowboarding Before You Start
Having a snowboard doesn’t have much point if you are unsure of how to use it. The hardest part is getting started, but once you learn how to started, all it takes is practice. To learn how to get started so that you have something to practice, read on.
First and foremost, find a snowboard that is the right size for you. Snowboards differ in width and length and greatly affect how you perform. Getting a board which is the wrong size for you can make snowboarding much more difficult. Consult a store clerk or do some online research to ensure a fitting board.
Skiing is quite similar to snowboarding. In snowboarding, the movements involved, the way you move/position your body are very similar to skiing. Once positioned, take a few deep breaths and relax your muscles, stressed or not. It is important to stay relaxed, because tensing up increases your chances of obtaining an injury.
Staying relaxed includes not locking your knees. Think of your knees as if they are shock absorbers, going over bumps and divots is going to hurt them, so be sure to keep them slightly bent and relaxed.
Now that you are on a fitting board, positioned and relaxed, ride the board with your front foot strapped in and try to go across the hill before attempting to go down it. Once you are comfortable, strap in the other foot.
Use your front,(not back) foot to steer as you start going down the hill. While pressing your heel down, lift up your toe. Move your hips backward, and you are snowboarding! To stop, simply turn yourself so that you are facing up the hill. This will slow you down and you will skid to a halt.
The knowledge of how to snowboard isn’t very useful if you don’t have a snowboard. Use the following advice and choose your board accordingly.
Freestyle boards are most popular amongst beginners, as learning to turn with the board is fairly easy. The nose and tail of this board are identical, which is an uncommon feature. It is moderately short, wide, and flexible. Buy a soft and short boot for this board.
Freeride boards are boards used for a variety of snow types and terrains. Industrial in its design, you can go off the trails or on the trails or wherever you find snow. Its design is long and thin. There are both freeride and freecave boards, although they vary slightly in their performance. Buy soft and tall boots along with soft bindings.
Alpine or Race boards are often used in competitions. The board is thinner than other boards, making it more stable, and enables it to reach high velocities and take quick turns. The tip is less curved and the tail is almost flat, allowing for the greatest edge contact between the board and the snow. There are both the giant slalom and the slalom boards. Buy a boot similar to a ski boot, as it will provide the maximum support and control.
Now that you know the steps to start snowboarding, get out there. Just remember,if you still feel uncomfortable, you can always take lessons.
Written by Gregg Hall our expert of the day.
Snowboard Clothing
It is amazing to see the great changes that sports clothes have suffered through history, and of course snowboarding is not an exception. Since the very moment snowboarders appeared, they have shown a unique style, a way of life that differs significantly from other sports such as skiing.
Skiing is considered a classic sport; ski competitions are much alike each other and everyone who skies has a style which seems to be the same from person to person. On the other hand, snowboarding is a sport based on individuality and freedom. As many other sportsmen and women, snowboarders have a special set of clothing specifically designed for them, much like people who practice urban sports such as skateboarding.
Season after season, snowboard clothing seems to evolve to allow snowboarders more freedom, as they need to jump ad high as possible and do many difficult movements.
Although this freedom to move is essential and highly appreciated by boarders, they also search for clothing that offers the maximum possible durability, without disregarding quality.
As new fabrics appear on the market, snowboard clothing is becoming more stretchable and breathable, providing waterproof protection at the same time.
But let’s not forget about the looks!. As many other sportsmen and women, snowboarders prefer clothing that reflects their lifestyle; outstanding looks will help them distinguish from their boarder fellows, preserving and enhancing their feeling of uniqueness. Blacks, dark blues and navies are being less used than before, as sky blues, light reds and grays are (mostly combined with lightful colors, as yellow or bright orange) becoming the number one snowboarders’ choice.
Many snowboarding clothes manufacturers are beginning to make jackets without hoods; some even remove pockets from their jacket designs. This results not only in “cool” looks, but make the clothes less expensive too. They are also beginning to make their clothing less bulky, and as a result many snowboarders show their taste for slimwear.
Written by Tamara Williams our expert of the day.
Snowboarding on Screen
As snowboarding becomes more popular, different enthusiasts created various channels to express their love and interest in the sport. As the years went by, the roads paved by the pioneers of snowboarding opened the way to more prestigious tournaments, to a category in the Olympics, and later on even to snowboarding videos.
The progression in the world of snowboarding made snowboarding films part of the sport’s culture. Since its recognition as an official sport 1985, many snowboarding videos have documented the events that happen each season which are usually released in the fall just before the winter, the peak season of snowboarding. While hobbyists were initially the only ones interested to film the sport, over the years, the number of companies covering snowboarding events have grown.
What initially started as something for personal use became an industry that is filming for various purposes. Some video productions companies have seen its commercial value and are manufacturing these specific type of films for advertisements. In fact, most snowboarding videos usually contain footages of famous professional snowboarders advertising their sponsors. An example where snowboarding films were used for commercials would be the film by Dave Seone about Shaun White called The White Album. This was sponsored by Mountain Dew, Burton Snowboards, and even Playstation for its snowboarding game.
Snowboarding has also been a subject of interest in Hollywood films, like the movie Out Cold released in 2001. The movie included appearances by several famous professional riders as either stunt performers or actual characters, or both. Out Cold is one of few major film productions that realistically depicted snowboarding and exhibited a true understanding of the sport’s real nature and culture.
Snowboarding films have also been documented to showcase the current trends and styles in the sport. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, watching snowboarding videos will be a great help in developing your skills as a rider. Although videos can never substitute actual learning from an instructor, this may help supplement lessons that are being taught in the field. You can find many downloadable videos from the internet and you may also order copies of documented events from either websites or stores for snowboarding.
For those who just want to have a souvenir, don’t hesitate to film yourself while on your board. You need not climb mountains to go snowboarding since there many other places that you can use like ski hills. And, contrary to popular belief, you do not need large amounts of snow to do some slides. You can take your personal snowboarding video anywhere where there is enough snow and a nice slope. If it’s hilarious enough, you can send it to America’s Funniest Home Video and who knows, you might even win.
However, for those novices who want to be discovered, you can also create your own videos to document your talent. Though it is not necessary to have someone professional take your footages, it may help when you intend to replicate it and send it to different scouts looking for a rookie. But if you intend to do this, make sure that you use a high end camera to clearly capture your moves. This will be a good strategy to present and market your skill and style. Also remember that it is easier to send a scout a copy of your snowboarding video for him to see the talent in you than to wait for a scout to find while you doing your best trick.
Written by Jasmine Stone our expert of the day.
Nub’s Nob Ski Vacations
If you will be in Michigan, you should definitely visit Nub’s Nob Ski Resort. Nub’s Nob has what is considered to be the Midwest’s best snow, and the resort has a reputation for being a family friendly mountain. Generations of families have brought their children here for their very first ski run. The mountain layout is fairly simple with an elevation of 1338 feet and a vertical drop of 427 feet. There are 43 trails serviced by eight chair lifts. Boasting one of the best skiing and snowboarding schools in the country, both private and group lessons are available. If you are brand new to the sport, you can even learn to ski free, and take advantage of Nub’s Cubs Childcare Center while you learn. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that intermediate or expert skiers won’t find any challenges waiting for them at Nub’s Nob! The terrain is varied, and you will find challenges. Night Skiing is also available. The Ski School offers training programs for advanced skiers who are interested in racing, and many racing events are held at the resort. You can signup for race leagues at the resort, and many league events are planned each season. Equipment rental is available, and there is a General Store right inside the lodge, where you can purchase gloves, hats, and neck warmers among a variety of other items. You should also visit the technology center to have your ski’s tuned or repaired. You won’t go hungry either! Nub’s Nob Cafeteria is open for breakfast and lunch, and if you brought your own lunch, you can eat in the ‘brown bag’ room. Nub’s Winter Garden serves grilled burgers when the weather allows. Pintail Peak Warming Hut is located at the top of the Black Lift. Here, you can enjoy amazing views while enjoying home made soups and sandwiches. Nub’s Nob is the place to go if you want to have a great family ski vacation - or if you are already an expert skier interested in racing and skill events. There is plenty to do and see. In fact, you may find that you have a problem deciding which activity to participate in first! Don’t worry about missing anything, though - if you want to ski now and board later, you can do that. Most events are planned for the weekends, so arrange your schedule so that you are able to attend or participate in the planned events.
Written by Jasmine Stone our expert of the day.
My Skiing Vacation to Europe
Around a year ago, I went on a skiing vacation to France and had a great time by all accounts. The best part was that I went with all my friends, all of which had varied abilities, but were all eager to give it a go. Some of my friends compete in competitions and the like, whilst others have only been on the slopes a few times in their life. The fact is that we were all really looking forward to it, and we were all sure to enjoy ourselves whilst we were away. Unfortunately, we don’t spend much time together, as we all go to different colleges, whilst others are trying to make it through the rat race. When we decided to book the holiday I was delighted to hear that everybody was able to make it, and that everyone had promised to save up enough money to really enjoy themselves while we were away. The cost of booking the holiday worked out at around $300 for accommodation for the week as we were going to be staying at a backpacker’s location, and it was only going to cost $150 for return flights. We really felt like we had struck a bargain, and we were even more delighted when we heard that the cost of living would be really cheap when we got there. We had decided to save up $1000 each, which meant that we would have more than enough spending money for when we arrived. I have to say, I never quite expected Europe to be such an excellent skiing destination for people like us with mixed abilities. Sure, there are the Alps, but I thought these were only the playground of the expert skiers. How wrong I was! There are simply loads of different places in Europe you can go, regardless of your skiing ability, and you’re almost guaranteed to have a great time. Also, the facilities right on the resorts are out of this world. It really is a great place to go skiing.We arrived in France, and we were firstly shocked at how laid-back it all seemed. It was some surrealist painting, except in motion, with strange, stereotypically French characters passing by. Regardless of this initial culture shock, we soon got our skis on and experienced the awesome slopes for ourselves. Trust me - France is a great place to go skiing with your friends, and a great place to go on a vacation if you’re looking to have a good time.We chose France for our vacation, but there are loads of great European ski resorts, and in fact, some people even say that Europe is the home of the sport, and it is easy to see why. If you’re looking for a great time, go for Europe, to experience a wholly different way of life, and skiing that is simply second to none. Check out your travel agent for good deals, and remember that the more flexible you are, the cheaper your holiday. By booking up the flights at the last minute, you can end up saving loads with some of the budget airlines, and by being totally flexible, you can avoid peak times, which means you can avoid peak prices. Your vacation in Europe doesn’t have to cost the earth, but it can be a once in a lifetime experience that you will never forget.
Written by Jasmine Stone our expert of the day.
Tennessee Ski Vacations
Located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski resort in the state. It is more than just a ski resort, however. It is a complete family vacation spot with an amusement park, indoor ice skating, a bungee tower, an alpine slide, and many other activities and attractions - there is something to please everyone. With an elevation of 3301 feet, and a vertical drop of 600 feet, Ober Gatlinburg features eight trails: two beginner trails, four intermediate trails, and two advanced trails. There are three lifts, including two quad lifts, one double lift, and one surface lift. The season runs from the middle of December through early March, and night skiing is allowed on all trails except the Grizzly trail. Rentals are available for both ski equipment and snowboarding equipment. Private and group lessons for skiing and snowboarding are also available through the Smokey Mountain Snow Sport School. You can also easily find food at the many snack bars, food carts, the café, the restaurant, or in the lounge. You must not miss the longest chair lift ride in the south! You will see awesome views of the Great Smoky Mountains. You will also get a bird’s eye view of some of the slopes, and you can have your picture taken on top of the mountain. If you don’t ski, don’t worry! You can ride back down the mountain on the chair lift as well. Don’t forget the Tramway. The tramway departs from downtown Gatlinburg and takes you to the ski resort and the amusement park. Even if you don’t ski, you can still explore the thrill of flying down a mountain at a high speed - or a slow speed if you choose. This is possible with the Alpine Slide. The slide is approximately 1800 feet long, and takes you down a winding wooded slope. You have total control over your speed with the use of a braking device on each sled. Other attractions at the amusement park include the Black Bear Habitat, a bungee jump, a water race, go karts, indoor ice skating, kiddie land, an arcade, miniature golf, a Spider Web Velcro Wall Jump, water rides, and a shooting range. No matter what type of fun or adventure you are seeking, there is something to satisfy everyone in the family at Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park. This is definitely a trip worth taking - especially if you have younger kids or senior citizens traveling with you.
Written by Jasmine Stone our expert of the day.
Guide To Jet Ski Rental
A beach getaway or a lake family get together is fun. But if you are thinking of adding a little adventure flavor to the event, then you must be considering renting a personal watercraft like a jet ski.
Don’t know where to start?
Okay. Let us say you have already prepared everything and you are just adding some details for your vacation. You are now discovering where to get jet ski rental.
Among many possible places to look into, there are 2 practical locations to start searching: the internet and the same resort or park you are going.
Basically, if you are going on a package, there are options where you can add jet ski rental. These could be done online or offline. There are rental sites on the internet that where you can find available jet skis you can use for a certain period of time with a specified rate. Renting from certain sites will allow you to use the jet ski for the whole day. You can also have a trailer and a tie-down that come with additional price.
These sites can also offer other personal watercrafts not only jet ski.
You can also check for the availability of jet skis once you arrive on your location. Usually, beach resorts and other parks have available jet skis for you to rent. Rentals on these locations are more restricted and they usually rate their rentals on an hourly basis.
Of course, the freedom to choose between these two options is entirely yours.
You should remember that when you rent a jet ski, you are bounded by rules. This is like renting a car. The only difference is that the on a jet ski rental, safety gears are included.
Included on the rent is the different gears you would need when you are making waves either on the open seas or on lakes.
For most rental sites (whether online or offline) require you to be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license and a major credit card.
To avail jet ski rental, visit one of the several sites on the internet and inquire about how you can get your feet on one for their jet skis. You can also call or email your travel agency or the place where you will spend your vacation for the availability of jet ski in their location and have it as an add-on.
Written by Low Jeremy our expert of the day.
