What Equipment do I Need to Pack on a Ski or Snowboard Instructor Training Course?
To get the most from your ski and snowboard internship or instructor course 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 then in most cases we recommend purchasing these items when you arrive in resort. Please check with us beforehand and contact us if you have any questions about requirements or a particular product.
Eyewear
It is essential that you have appropriate eyewear when participating in our programs. You will be subject to a lot of sunshine 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.
Skiing Equipment
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. As a general rule for the purpose of sitting a level 1 or 2 ski exam the following principles apply:
General: A versatile All Mountain or Carving ski will be best.
Waist Width: We recommend a ski which is between 70 to 85mm underfoot. This will allow you to turn the ski easily and demonstrate the required techniques, as well as ski bumps and powder off-piste. For locations like Verbier or Revelstoke, the upper end of this range would be best.
Sidecut Radius: Something less than 20 meters is recommended.
Length: The length of the ski should be somewhere between your chin and nose.
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.
Snowboarding Equipment
Snowboard
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.
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 your 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 footbeds can also enhance the performance of your boots.
What to Wear on a Ski or Snowboard Course?
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. Watch this quick video for a full rundown of all the clothing you will need for a winter season.
Summary list of recommended items:
- Socks - wool or wool/wicking synthetic blend. They will make your day, I promise. NO COTTON! Bring at least two/three pairs in case your feet get wet
- Base layer on top and bottom. Choose wool or synthetics; lightweight if you run warm or middleweight if you run cold. Your standard pair of thermals will work just fine
- Middle layer fleece pullover
- Water resistant or waterproof pants and jacket
- Warm hat. A beanie is best as 80% of body heat is lost through your head
- Helmet - Increasingly becoming standard practice - although not compulsory at all resorts we'd advise you take one as usually these are required when teaching children lessons
- Neck or face protection
- Waterproof gloves or mittens - mittens are warmer but gloves make it easier to do up boots and bindings
- Goggles - preferred over sunglasses
- Snow boots or comfy winter slip-on with traction. These are optional and not essential
- Chapstick and sunscreen
- Hardware - skis, boots and poles and or snowboard
- Everyone should have a small pocket notebook and pen so you can make notes on the hill
- An A4 notebook to take study notes within the classroom will also come in handy!
- On an Internship Program, you will be issued with a ski school uniform which you can wear while working
All participants on our training programs receive a hoodie on arrival branded with our EA Ski & Snowboard Training logos. Also if successful on an Internship Program you will be issued with a Ski School Uniform which you can wear while working.
