Everything looks alike during ski school - Parkas, hats, mittens, boots, poles, goggles, and especially skis and snowboards and even helmets!. Black “Sharpie” (or silver Sharpie marking pens for dark surfaces) marking pens by Sanford are the most permanent and non-running. If something is misplaced during ski school and it has a name on it – it usually finds its way back to you. If there is no name, or the name is in a “hidden” or not easy to see place - we won’t know who it belongs to, even if we do find it. Year before last the Lost n’ Found was filled with unnamed treasures at the end of the year and last year there was very little left at the end of the season. Powderpig parents rock!
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Pro-tip: MARK ALL YOUR BELONGINGS!
Where to buy?
The next important step is to find a store that has it all and is staffed with personnel qualified and able to work with children as skiers & snowboarders. The staff must be willing to take the extra time necessary to listen to and work with you and your child as individuals. Go earlier, rather than later, to purchase your gear in order to avoid the crowds and distracted, exhausted store staffers at the end of the getting ready season. TALK WITH YOUR SALESPERSON. Make sure their “credentials”, attitudes, knowledge and focus of attention satisfy you. “Gritting your teeth and taking it” in a ski store sets you up for a good possibly of having to “grit your teeth and take it” on the mountain. It REALLY is worth the time it takes to find a salesperson who has the knowledge of children, the time, the interest & the willingness to put it all together for your child. Check out the article on retailers we love:
Gear shops We Love!