RENTING EQUIPMENT

Chances are, if you have never skied or boarded before, you do not own your own equipment and renting is your best option. If you are not knowledgeable about the rental process, your first experience can be confusing. Preparing yourself on what to expect is half the battle.

The first thing you need to know is what you wear. Just like dressing for the slopes, you need to dress in layers in the rental shop. Being inside dressed in your ski jacket, thermals, and whatever else you might have on will cause your body to become warm and you might sweat. Taking off some of the many layers you have on will help.

Secondly, expect lines. During peak hours (9 am - 11 am), the rental line can become increasingly long so be prepared to wait a little bit. While you are waiting in line, fill out your rental forms. Do not stand at the registers to fill out your paper work. This just takes more time and causes the people behind you to become disgruntled because they have to wait even longer. There are counters and pens to fill out your forms. Remember one form needs to be filled out for each person renting equipment. You can't put a whole family on one form.

And finally, bring some type of ID, like a driver's license or credit card. An ID is a must for renting equipment.

Once you reach the cashier, ask questions. The cashier is there to help you. If you are a beginner or have skied once or twice before or haven't skied in a long time and would like to take a lesson the best route is the beginners package, which includes an area use pass (aka lift ticket), rentals, and a one and half hour group lesson. If you are a snowboarder of any ability (never-ever to expert) the best option is the snowboard package which includes your area use pass, rental equipment and a one and half hour group lesson. Once the cashier has collected all of your paperwork and your money, you are off to receive your equipment.

BUYING EQUIPMENT
Ultimately, the goal is to own your own gear. Before you go out and buy any gear, you should try out different kinds of equipment. Some brands and styles may be more suited to you than others. Think of it like buying a car. Would you buy a car that you haven't test driven?

Even though equipment can be expensive, there are some deals out there if you know where to look. Ski shops offer sales during late spring and early summer, ski swaps, even friends and neighbors. Just remember if you are buying used equipment, make sure you have them checked out and tuned up before you start to use them.