First Timer’s Guide

We strongly recommend that you take a lesson. Like anything, you’ll improve the most when you receive some guidance. The best way to become a good skier or snowboarder is to take a lesson from one of our professional instructors. You’ll safely learn more in a one-hour lesson that you will all day on your own.

• Obtain proper equipment. Be sure to have your ski or snowboard bindings adjusted correctly. You can rent quality ski or snowboarding equipment at Beech Mountain Resort.
• Dress in layers. Layering allows you to accommodate your body’s constantly changing temperature. For example, dress in polypropylene long underwear (top and bottom), which feels good next to the skin, dries quickly, absorbs sweat, and keeps you warm. Wear a turtleneck, sweater or sweatshirt. Wearing the proper outer layer is important. Insulated, waterproof pants and coats are essential (these are available for rent in our clothing rental department).
• Be prepared for changing weather. Have something for your head to keep your head and ears warm (a full facemask and helmet are other options, too). Wear insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens; mittens are typically warmer.
• Know your limits. Learn to ski and snowboard in control.
• If you’re tired, take a break. It is not a good idea to ski or snowboard when you are tired; it is usually when most injuries occur.
• Have fun!

• Socks: Usually your socks should be warm, but thin; thin, woolen socks are the most preferred. Thin socks are best as they let you feel the sole of your ski boot which is where the action is generated as you ski. Make sure that only your socks are inside of your boots for the same reason, extra layers can make pressure areas that cut off circulation or numb nerves so try to avoid them.
• Boots: You will probably be renting boots. These are a very important item as they are the connection between you and the skis. If this connection is too sloppy you will find it hard to get the skis to do what you want them to do. You want the boots to fit firmly around your foot but not to cut off your circulation or press too hard on nerves and make your feet numb.
• Pants: You want these to be waterproof! You will be sitting on a chair-lift that may have snow on it and you will probably fall on the snow since you are learning. You will feel really cold and miserable if you get wet, so go waterproof.
• Jacket: It is very important that this should be windproof and waterproof. You will be sitting on a chair-lift in the wind. The snow is wet.
• Thermal Underwear: Even if it is warm and you do not need this for warmth you may want to consider wearing a layer of thermal underwear to remove moisture from your skin. There are many companies that make sportswear that perform this job. If you do not have anything suitable even a cheap pair of thermal underwear (legs and top) will be fine. Cotton holds moisture and will make a chill layer so try to avoid using any cotton. If you are coming from a warm climate perhaps try some online shopping or stop at a department store on your way to your destination.
• Warm layers: Fleece is great for warm layers. However you can use anything that will keep you warm (cotton is not the number one choice). Go with a down jacket or vest if it is really cold and wool works well, too. Grab some fleece from Wal-Mart or the Goodwill shop if you do not have any. Fleece works well because it tends to keep the moisture from your sweat in vapor form making it easier to let it get through your jacket (if it can breathe). Wool works similarly. Remember you will need to move – so a vest can let you have a warm trunk but keep some arm movement possible.