Snow Skills

Let’s face it, no one wakes up in the morning hoping for the opportunity to go out skiing and riding in the rain. Rain can actually create pretty good snow conditions, however, as it levels and softens the snow surface. The question is usually how long you can hang outside in the rain before becoming miserably wet. Solution? Don’t get miserably wet!

When it comes to clothing: there are two words for skiing/riding in the rain: Gore Tex. There are other materials that are fairly waterproof, but none can match Gore Tex for durability, warmth, and breathability. Select a Gore Tex parka that hangs below your hips and has a hood. Wear Gore Tex pants as well; add a pair of suspenders if necessary to keep them at your waist.

There’s no winter glove or mitten, Gore Tex or otherwise, that can keep rain out. There’s just too many seams. So, it’s time to take a tip from our New England fishermen friends: get a pair of blue rubber fishing gloves for $18 to $20 either at your local marine supply store or on line. These gloves are lined with fleece and are absolutely, completely waterproof. They won’t breathe, but you won’t get saturated and give you cold hands, so that’s a winning situation for staying out on the hill in the rain.

Wear your helmet as usual or a light winter cap under the hood. A helmet with a visor or adding a ballcap can be useful to shield rain from driving directly at your face. Add a pair of goggles with clear or light green lenses and you are well equipped for success skiing and riding out in the “dark snow”.

Hey, a fair day on the slopes is always better than a good day in the lodge. Live in the outside!