Equipment Guide

What do I Need?

To get the most from your experience with us we recommend you use gear and equipment that is right for you. The following is a general guide. If you already have ski or snowboard gear then bring this with you. If you don’t we recommend you purchase these items when you arrive to begin your training program. 

For those taking part on any of our training programs we have discount deals through local retailers. Those on Instructor Internship programs will be able to take advantage of pro form product deals.

Please contact us if you have any questions about requirements or a particular product.

Boots

Boots are the most important piece of equipment in skiing and snowboarding. You will be spending a lot of time every day in your boots and it is important that they are comfortable. You will need a snug fit which allows for only your toes to ‘wiggle’. A fit like this will enhance the response and control you can get from you ski’s or snowboard. 

When first trying boots on, start with ones that are a full size smaller than your normal shoes. A boot technician will usually measure your foot in the shell without the liner. You should be able to get at least one finger behind your heel when the foot is forward in the shell and your toes touching the plastic. Once you know you have the right shell size, try the boot on with the liner. Fitting custom foot beds can also enhance the performance of your boots.

Bindings

It is important that bindings are safe, reliable and strong. It is an integral part of the control and response system, as the movement and pressure you place on your boots are directed to your skis or snowboard through your bindings. If your bindings are an incorrect size, model or construction a great deal of performance can be lost. On ski bindings an important component to look for is the DIN range. DIN (Deutsche Industrie Norm) settings are standardised across all makes of bindings.

The appropriate setting depends on your weight, boot size, height and level of skiing. For snowboard bindings we recommend those with high backs and toe straps.

Eyewear

It is essential that you have appropriate eyewear when participating in our programs. You will be subject to a lot of sunshine (especially at Lake Tahoe!) and the reflection off the snow enhances this. We recommend a pair of sunglasses or goggles with good eye coverage for high reflection days and a pair of goggles for low light conditions.

Snowboards

The type of snowboard used varies depending on terrain and style of snowboarding. Categories include Big Mountain, All Mountain, Freestyle and Carve.

For the purposes of our training programs a versatile All Mountain board will be best. The length of the board should be around chin height. 

Skis

The type of ski used varies depending on terrain and style of skiing. The categories of skis available include Big Mountain, All Mountain, Park & Pipe / Freestyle and Carving. The best ski for you will depend on the main style of skiing you will be doing. For the purposes of our training programs a versatile All Mountain or Carving ski will be best. A good amount of side-cut and medium waist width (68 – 75mm) underfoot will allow you to demonstrate the required techniques as well as ski bumps and powder off piste. The length of the ski should be somewhere between your chin and nose.

Clothing

It is important that you are prepared for cold winter conditions. When getting your clothing sorted start at the bottom (your feet) and work up and out: You will require good knee high socks that are not too thick, thermal pants and a long sleeved top next to the skin that will keep you warm, fully waterproof pants and jacket, and a good pair of waterproof gloves, as well as a beanie and neck gaiter/ scarf.

Also, throw in some extra warm layers as it can often reach temperatures below freezing so an extra thermal layer (especially for your hands) is important.

All participants on our training programs receive a Helly Hansen Tec long sleeved top branded with our Educating Adventures / Ski & Snowboard Training logos. Also if you are keen to take advantage of a large discount on one of our top of the line HH team waterproof jackets (as shown here) contact us!