Durango Mountain Resort

Durango lift tickets are in at Good Sports De Zavala location. You’re all geared up and ready to go, but you’ll still need a way to get to the top of the slopes once you reach the mountain.  This means lift tickets. Durango Mountain Resort in Colorado is a great place to head this year for your ski trip. They offer runs for everyone from beginners to experts so that everyone in the family can enjoy themselves. Stop in to see us today to get your lift tickets now, before they run out!

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Recco: Rescue System

We’ve talked about hats, goggles, socks, and other ski gear. Things to keep you comfortable to enjoy your vacation.  But on more of a winter safety gear side, Recco’s Advanced Rescue Technology is something to at least be aware of for your upcoming ski trips.

Recco provides an avalanche recovery system currently being used by more than 600 rescue organizations. Each rescue team using the system is equipped with a detector that works with any outerwear, helmets, and safety gear equipped with a Recco reflector.  The system works by use of harmonic radar.  The reflectors bounce back a signal to the detectors allowing the rescue team to detect through up to 30 meters of snow to find avalanche victims.

One of the biggest benefits of having the Recco system is that there is no activation required.  Because the reflector is passive, it doesn’t require the user to activate.  This also means that there are no batteries required.  Once purchased, the consumer does not have to do anything with the reflector, he or she only has to wear the product that it is integrated with.

We have some great products that have Recco integrated, including Arc’Teryx Women’s Moray Jacket, Kjus Men’s Slopes ‘n’ Ropes Jacket. Come by Good Sports to check these and more out.

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Skier’s Checklist

When it comes time to start getting everything together for a ski or snowboard trip, things can get a bit hectic.  This is especially true for first timers who need to be outfitted from the ground up.  This post is going to lay out a basic checklist, something to help you visually organize your thoughts as you prepare for your trip.

 

Skier’s Check List

Jacket– This is something that needs to be waterproof. You can go with either an insulated jacket with lighter mid layers or more of a shell system. A shell system will require more layering underneath but is more versatile for different climates.

Pants- Again needs to be waterproof.  Just like jackets you can do an insulated or shell system.  There are specific pants and jackets made for snow sports. While a rain jacket/pant will be waterproof, they will not be featured for snow sports.

Mid layer– This is for your top. You want to use a wicking product like fleece or wool. Whether it be 1/4-zip or full jacket, this layer provides some extra insulation to keep you warm.

Base layer– This means top and bottom.  This next to skin layer needs to wick well in order to keep you dry as well as provide warmth. Styles will differ depending on what kind of system or preference you have.  You can find these in wool and synthetics, relaxed and tight fit.

Gloves/Mittens- This needs to be waterproof and insulated.  Something actually made for the snow, not just a knit or fleece glove.  Mittens are warmer than a glove equivalent because your fingers are able to keep each other warm as well. Many people still prefer gloves because mittens will restrict movement of individual fingers.

Ski/Snowboard Socks- Something warm and wicking, just like your base layer.  This is next to skin as well. There are differences between snowboard and ski socks.  While ski socks are going to be padded at the shin, a snowboard sock will be padded all the way around.

Neck Gaitor/Scarf- This piece is invaluable when sitting on the lift waiting to head down the slopes.  When your not actively creating body heat, its very nice to be able to pull something up around your face and neck to keep warm.

Goggles– Goggles….not sunglasses! Goggles will surround your face, keeping wind and the glare from your eyes. Goggles also will have a strap that runs around your head, far more secure than sunglasses will be.

Helmet– Helmets are becoming the norm on the slopes.  At many mountains they are now being required for kids. It’s not just about running the harder slopes, you have to watch out for the other skiers down on the greens and bunny slopes.

Skin/Lip Care- Something to keep your skin and lips from getting chapped in the colder, dryer air.

After Ski Footwear– This too is waterproof and insulated.  Something to head into town or walk up to the lodge before switching to your clip in ski boots.  You don’t want to be walking around in ski boots all day.  Trust me, your feet will thank you for it.

Swim Suit- Everyone forgets about the hot tub back in the room.  But it’s there and oh so nice after a long day on the slopes.

Luggage- You will of course need something to pack all of this great gear in.  Keep in mind that winter gear is bulkier than lighter, summer wear.  Plan accordingly for the size of luggage you will be taking with you.

Everything on this list and more we have here at Good Sports.  Our staff is very knowledgeable about the products we carry and are well equipped to outfit you for your trip. When you stop in, don’t be afraid to ask questions, we want you to be prepared so that you enjoy yourself enough to make this a tradition.

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