Rental Orientation for New Skiers

Renting equipment before buying or borrowing is sound advice for the first time skier. Rental shop technicians will help you with equipment fit, and provide guidance with equipment care. Knowing this "before the slopes" process will familiarize you with what to expect from the rental experience.

To locate a qualified rental shop go to www.vermontskisafety.com and check out the "shop list". In the last year these shops have sent their staff to the most advanced hands-on training program the ski industry has to offer. Most skiers rent in the morning, which is often the busiest time of the day for rental shops. If you have time, plan to rent the afternoon before your first day of skiing and allow yourself about 30 minutes to get set up. Some resorts offer special new skier packages that include lift tickets, equipment, and lessons.

BINDINGS
The rental process begins by filling out the Rental Agreement. This form is used to identify the equipment you'll be renting and includes information in order to properly adjust your release bindings on the skis. You'll be asked to list your weight, height, age, and skier type. Skier Type refers to speed and the steepness of the trails you'll be skiing. First time skiers who do not express a preference (there are 3 types) are classified as Type I.

BOOTS
Next you will be outfitted for ski boots, which are made to fit more snuggly then your street shoes. Take your time, you may have to try on more then one pair the first time you rent. Socks are important and wearing one pair that is ski boot specific will help keep your feet warm and comfortable. When trying on ski boots firmly grasp the shell, liner, and boot tongue and spread the shell open as wide as possible. Insert your toes and push down and forward with your heel. Expect your toes to touch the front of the boot. Buckle boots bottom to top while keeping all clothing outside the boot. Then stand and flex forward pushing your shin against the boot tongue. This motion will slide your foot back into the correct position and allow you to retighten the buckles. The pressure on your foot should be comfortably snug like a firm handshake and hold your foot in place. The cuff should be snug against your leg without gaps, and your toes should no longer touch the front of the boot.

Ski boots have built in forward lean. To comfortably stand in your boots allow your shins to rest against the front of the boot. To walk in your boots you may want to loosen the top buckles. Some boots have a walking option that unlocks the cuff and allows it to move more freely.

SKIS
Today's short skis are designed to help you learn faster with less effort then longer skis of the past. Renting modern and well maintained equipment is just as important as wearing a good fitting ski boot. Your rental technician will suggest an appropriate ski and pole length that is generally based on your height. However, as you become a more experienced skier you may want to rent skis that match your ability and the type of terrain you like to ski.

Once you have all of your equipment the technician will show you how to get in and out of the bindings. You may want to bring a bag for boots and extra clothing to make transporting them easier. When leaving the rental shop ask the technician to show you how to carry your equipment, some shops offer ski ties and boot clips. By planning ahead and understanding the rental process you'll be off to a good start your first day on the slopes.

Article by Heidi Ettlinger ©2004 All rights reserved